Abstract
Ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL) implies that ultrasound energy is applied directly to adipose tissue by means of a probe or cannula, resulting in emulsification of fat. UAL can be performed with either a solid probe or a hollow titanium cannula that vibrates at ultrasonic frequency. Suction- assisted lipoplasty (SAL) implies that adipose tissue is removed from the subcutaneous space by means of a traditional blunt-tip hollow cannula attached to high-power suction. The purpose of this article is not to debate the merits of one technique over the other; it is simply to compare UAL and SAL from a technical standpoint. Given that most plastic surgeons are familiar with SAL and that UAL is still relatively new to US plastic surgeons, the comparison is intended as a jumping board for those who are already proficient at SAL technique who may be interested in expanding their surgical armamentarium. UAL is not a replacement for SAL; it is more an extension of SAL technique.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 283-288 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Clinics in Plastic Surgery |
Volume | 26 |
Issue number | 2 |
State | Published - May 17 1999 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Surgery