About Liposuction/Ultrasonic Assisted Lipoplasty
What is Ultrasonic Assisted Lipoplasty?
Ultrasonic Assisted Lipoplasty (UAL) involves the application of ultrasonic energy to fatty tissue, effectively liquefying the fat, which is then removed using a low vacuum suction. The process is similar in concept to Lithotripsy, a procedure in which sound waves are used to break up kidney stones, allowing them to freely move through the urinary tract. In the same manner, ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses sound waves to liquefy fat, with little damage to surrounding cells. Through small incisions, a tube delivers those sound waves to a specific area of fat that has been injected with saline solution. UAL is a gentle technique that allows for a large volume of fat to be removed. Patients experience minimal bruising, blood loss, and swelling.
What does it accomplish?
Ultrasonic Assisted Lipoplasty, like traditional liposuction, is not a weight-reduction procedure. It is a contouring procedure designed to remove localized bulges or fat deposits that are non-responsive to consistent diet and exercise.
What happens during the first consultation?
Every patient is different and Dr. Adams prefers to individualize each patients care. During the initial consultation, Dr. Adams will evaluate your general health and explain the surgical techniques most appropriate for you; based on the condition of your skin and the amount of fatty tissue. You will learn about the procedure, risks and complications, and what you can expect with recovery.
You will have the opportunity to look though pre and post-op pictures of previous consented patients and cases that may be similar to yours. The meeting with Dr. Adams covers all aspects of the surgery process and gives you the opportunity to address your desires and expectations for the outcome. We will take professional photos of your requested body sites, which allows for thorough planning of the surgery and recovery, and documentation of your overall progress.
Will I be awake for the procedure?
Dr. Adams performs all liposuction procedures in our outpatient surgery center under general anesthesia, no matter how minimal. He believes it is safer and more comfortable for the patient to be fully asleep, and allows for the best possible result.
What can I expect after liposuction?
Recovery time:
You may be expected to stay in the hospital overnight, depending on the extent of your surgery. You will feel tired and sore for 3-7 days, in addition to experiencing swelling, bruising, and possible numbness. Foam dressings and compression garments are placed over the surgical site, and must stay in place for 2-3 days following surgery, or until instructed by your surgeon. You are then permitted to shower and replace the compression garments. Compression-wear must continue for 2-3 weeks day/night and then taper off to just nighttime the following 2-3 weeks. To minimize the risk of infection after surgery, you will be prescribed a short course of antibiotics.
Depending on the demands of your job, you are able to return to work with ease in approximately 7-10 days. For three weeks, you must try to keep your heartrate under 100 bpm and abstain from aerobic physical exercise. Some patients may being light walking the same day of surgery.
When are the sutures removed?
Sutures are dissolvable and do not require removal.
Am I a good candidate for this type of liposuction?
This will be determined at your first visit with Dr. Adams. If you are within 15-20 pounds of your optimal body weight and in good health, you may be a good candidate for this procedure.
As liposuction is not a replacement for diet and exercise, it is recommended to meet your physical health and fitness goals, as close as you can prior to surgery, to ensure the best results.
What does the surgery cost?
Due to the wide range of UAL surgery options and the uniqueness of your needs, there is a range in costs.
Before coming in for the consultation with Dr. Adams, we schedule a complimentary phone call with the Patient Consultant. We offer this pre-consult phone call to all of our new patients to allow for a more personalized, informative experience. During the call, the Patient Consultant will acquire personal details from you, review your medical history, answer questions, and discuss specifics on Dr. Adams’ technique. This allows her to give you an idea for what you can expect for your quote, which will then be confirmed at your in-person appointment with Dr. Adams.
Your quote includes the surgeon fee, anesthesia, and surgery center all together.
Are there scars?
Yes. All surgeries performed on the body will result in scarring. The strategic placement of the incisions is to make your scars as unnoticeable as possible. Incisions are 3-4mm in length. Dr. Adams will discuss your incision location(s) during your first visit.
Does it require pain medication?
Pain medication is prescribed to help control any discomfort.
For some cases, Dr. Adams may prescribe a Medrol dose pack to reduce associated swelling and inflammation.
Where is the surgery performed?
Your liposuction is performed in a fully accredited surgical facility, Park Cities Surgery Center.
What medications should I avoid?
You should avoid or stop taking all prescribed or over the counter weight/diet medications and supplements. Homeopathic medications must be approved by Dr. Adams. It is especially important to be off St. John’s Wort and Ginseng, which can cause adverse effects during anesthesia.
Please refrain from NSAIDS- Aspirin, Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin, in the weeks leading up to surgery and after surgery, as these medications can cause bleeding problems. Please inform your surgeon what medications you are on (prescription or non-prescription) to ensure the safety for any surgery.
If you have any questions regarding your options for UAL or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Adams, contact us today!