Ultrasonic is a popular method of fat reduction and cosmetic surgery which uses the high-frequency, low-amplitude tones produced by an ultrasound device to seek out fat cells in the body. Ultrasonic liposuction is still a procedure that requires medical supervision and has its own risks, but it’s possible to perform ultrasonic liposuction at home – as long as you follow proper safety precautions. Here are some facts about ultrasonic liposuction before you decide if this approach makes sense for your situation.
- Ultrasonic liposuction is not a new concept. It was first developed in the early 1980s, but the idea of using sound waves to treat fat can be traced back to the 1940s.
- Ultrasonic is intended to complement, not replace, traditional liposuction. The method involves using high-frequency sound waves to liquefy fat cells and then suctioning out the contents through small tubes . It’s believed that this approach removes more fat from targeted areas with fewer incisions than traditional methods; however, it’s still a surgical procedure and involves some short-term risks, such as bruising and bleeding.
- Ultrasonic liposuction may not be right for everyone. Doctors warn that the technique is only effective in locations where there are visible pockets of fat, and it’s usually reserved for areas where you want to remove a significant amount of fat—such as the abdomen, hips, or legs. Ultrasonic liposuction may not work well in areas with a lot of muscle tissue or less prominent fat stores.
- It most often isn’t used on the face because it’s too dangerous for that area. There are also concerns about the safety of using ultrasonic devices on sensitive areas such as breasts and genitalia.
- The number one risk of ultrasonic liposuction is bruising and bleeding . Ultrasonic devices generate strong vibrations that could damage blood vessels and cause excessive bleeding. This problem can be lessened by using ultrasonic equipment with a high wattage, but there’s always the risk of developing hematomas, blood clots, and excessive bruising.
- Doctors don’t recommend ultrasonic liposuction for people with heart conditions or who have trouble with bleeding . The vibrating device used in ultrasonic liposuction could cause a person to bleed excessively at the site of the incisions or elsewhere in their body.
- Ultrasonic liposuction isn’t permanent. It doesn’t destroy fat cells; it merely breaks down their contents . The fat is then absorbed into the body via the lymphatic system. Fat cells can regrow, but they are more likely to do so in areas where there is less tissue left—such as under your skin.
- Ultrasonic liposuction can be used on babies and young children with adult supervision, but it’s probably not advisable for children to undergo it at home. Experts warn that this method might not work well on babies or young children whose fat cells aren’t fully developed yet and who don’t have visible fat stores. Doctors also caution against using this treatment on children whose immune systems are still developing because the procedure can weaken their defenses against infection .
- Ultrasonic liposuction is performed by trained doctors only . The technique is safe only when performed by a licensed and trained professional.
- Ultrasonic liposuction isn’t right for everyone. It’s not appropriate for people with breathing difficulties, common skin conditions, chronic pain, active bleeding or skin infections, recent surgery on the area to be treated, or lung disease .
- There are risks involved with all cosmetic procedures . Ultrasonic liposuction is no exception. Before considering this option for your body, ask your cosmetic surgeon about all safety issues and discuss these risks with your doctor before you decide if this procedure is right for you .
Conclusion
When performed by a skilled professional, ultrasonic liposuction is a good alternative for people who don’t want invasive surgeries. The treatment is less risky than traditional liposuction, but it does have some limitations and risks that you should consider before scheduling the procedure.