Ultrasonic liposuction is a type of liposuction procedure that utilizes technology to treat fat before it is taken from the body. Formally known as ultrasonic assisted liposuction, or UAL, the procedure aids surgeons in getting better results over traditional liposuction methods. However, in recent years, the procedure has come under scrutiny as to whether the benefits outweigh the risks associated with it.

How It Works
Ultrasonic liposuction uses sound waves at the ultrasonic level to turn fat into liquid. This liquefied fat is easier to remove via the traditional vacuum tube used in liposuction. The surgeon first injects fluid into the fatty tissue under the skin. The fluid, a mixture of anesthetics and drugs, swells the tissue, making the area firm. The surgeon uses the thin tube, known as a cannula, to send ultrasonic waves into the fat. The fat cells liquify and get sucked out quickly and easily. The procedure is often used for hard-to-treat areas, such as the chin, knees, neck and cheeks.

Benefits of Ultrasonic Liposuction
There are several benefits associated with the ultrasonic liposuction procedure:

• The procedure can more effectively treat denser fat pockets than traditional methods. Denser fat pockets generally occur in areas such as the chin and neck.
• UAL can remove more fat cells at once, making the procedure more efficient for high volume fat areas such as thighs, buttocks or abdomen.
• Ultrasonic liposuction works to also tighten skin during the process, helping the treated area avoid dimpling or puckering post surgery.
• UAL is considered more precise for the surgeon, so he or she can perform more exact body contouring.

Controversy
Ultrasonic liposuction is falling out of favor with many plastic surgeons because studies are revealing that the risks of the procedure are outweighing the benefits. Increasingly, ultrasonic liposuction is considered less safe and produces some complications. Complications include blood clots, nerve damage, scarring, fluid retention and damage to some internal organs. However, proponents of the procedure claim that the newer equipment used in the ultrasonic liposuction procedure are much safer and more precise than earlier tools.