Liposuction Complication Article
What is Ultrasonic Liposuction?
If you are interested in body contouring, chances are you have heard of or are aware of ultrasonic liposuction. It is advanced technology that makes it easier to removed excess body fat. The procedure allows energy to break down the fat cells into oil so that it is easily removed. It is controversial due to the complications and risks of the procedure. Make sure you notify your physician if you are considering this surgery.
An ultrasonic generator is used with a special device for suctioning the fat. Ultrasonic energy delivers mechanical and thermal energy to fat. The fat is then broken down and turned into oil. The oil is then mixed with fluid and forms and emulsion. The emulsion or fats is then sucked out.
The technique can be done externally or internally. With internal ultrasonic liposuction a rod is inserted just beneath the skin. With external ultrasonic liposuction, a paddle is placed on the skin and affects the fat cells underneath.
The technique was first used in the early 1990’s unsuccessfully. Many patients suffered injuries such as burned tissue, organ punctures such as kidneys by the machine’s tubes. The machine has been updated and improved however, it still has not been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. The procedure was first introduced as state of the art and many people are desperately overweight and are looking for any procedure that will help them lose weight.
External UAL is done by passing a paddle over the skin, which generates ultrasonic waves, which breaks up fat cells before they are flushed out. It can cause burning of the skin. A gel is used as a lubricant to help pass the paddle. Some people are allergic to the gel and have had a bad reaction. Consequently, because of the dangers, this procedure is rarely used.
Other problems that have occurred include blood clots and damage to nerves. Some people have lost sensations in particular areas that have been ‘paddled’ which would constitute never damage, which is irreversible. Other people have suffered tissue damage.
Beyond obesity, the procedure may be used on people who have localized fat deposits and want them removed from the neck, waist or buttocks. Breast hypertrophy which is sculpting and contouring the breasts to prevent sagging, removes cellulite, and excess sweating.
Other complications may include abnormal body contour, dimples, infection, scarring, permanent numbing of the area treated, puckers, slow healing, redness and discoloration. It is estimated that 1 in 10,000 people have died during the procedure.
If you are considering this procedure, speak with your physician and obtain advice. This is a serious surgery that should not be taken lightly. Make sure you have your physician’s approval before considering any voluntary surgery.
