There are many liposuction techniques available today that are effective and water assisted liposuction is just one of many. It is one of the newest types of liposuction and is offered under popular brand names such as AquaLipo and Body-Jet Liposuction.
Most water liposuction procedures use the tumescent liposuction technique of injecting a solution to make the fat easier to target and remove from the body but the tumescent injection is not necessary. Instead of injecting the local anesthetic before surgery begins, the anesthesia is dispersed continuously throughout the procedure in the water.
The cannula used in water assisted liposuction contains two tubes, one delivers the water while the other suctions and removes the fat from the area. The water actually contains lodocaine and epinephrine and is released as a pulsating spray that breaks up the fat while numbing the tissue. The fluids and fat are removed via suction at the same rate as the water is being sprayed so the area does not become bloated or uncomfortable for the patient.
Benefits of Water Assisted Lipo
Compared to traditional liposuction techniques that require a mechanical force to break up fat, the water liposuction technique is much gentler and causes less stress for the other tissue in treatment area. Since it requires less force from the surgeon, there is significantly less risk of nerves being damaged because of the gentle and precise nature of this technique.
It also claims to be able to remove fat from areas of the body at a faster rate since the fat is being broken down by the pressurized jet of water rather than relying on force and suction power. Also, when general anesthesia and tumescent injections are not required, the overall time spent on the procedure is reduced.
The administration of anesthesia poses a risky situation by itself and presents a risk for any surgical procedure. This is especially true of general anesthesia and liposuction surgery without general anesthesia is already significantly less risky than large scale procedures that require the patient to be fully sedated. However, there may be times when a local or even general anesthetic may be necessary.
Recovering from AquaLipo or Body-Jet Liposuction is generally faster than traditional liposuction because there was less damage to other tissue. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis so patients are able to return to their daily activities immediately as long as they avoid any excessive physical activities. Most patients will require a few days of rest to fully heal before returning to work.
Water Liposuction Risks
Liposuction surgery will also carry some inherent risks and water assisted liposuction is no exception. Common side effects include swelling and bruising which is common with any type of liposuction surgery. Some patients might experience numbness or tenderness around the treatment area. More severe risks include infections of the incision, bleeding, or irregular contours when results are not what was originally desired.
The best way to minimize the risks is by going to a qualified, board certified plastic surgeon that is experienced in providing patients with liposuction treatment. It is also a good idea to follow the surgeons’ pre-surgery and post-surgical care instructions as closely as possible. A patient that might be a poor candidate, such as those with pre-existing medical conditions, will be at higher risk of complications or improper recovery.