Power Assisted Liposuction

Power assisted liposuction is performed using a special cannula which uses tiny, rapid vibrations to break up fat cells so that they can be suctioned out of the body. Doctors can remove more fat in a shorter period of time, which leads to enhanced results, a safer procedure, and faster recovery. PAL is performed using the tumescent liposuction technique, in which an anesthetic liquid is injected into the treatment area for smooth fat transfer through the cannula and out of the body.

Doctors do not need to use as much force during a power assisted liposuction because the vibrating cannula helps release fat cells from the body. In a study led by the Department of Dermatology at Tulane University Health Sciences Center, researchers found that 30 percent more fat was removed with PAL than with manual liposuction, while bruising and recovery time were significantly reduced. This makes PAL useful for treating areas that are notoriously difficult to sculpt, including the inner thighs, belly button area, and male breasts. Because the power assisted liposuction procedure takes less time to perform than manual liposuction, patients are less susceptible to complications and safety risks. Patients report many long-term benefits of fat removal with liposuction.

As with all surgical procedures, there are some risks associated with power assisted liposuction; however, patients can reduce these risks by selecting an experienced power assisted liposuction surgeon to perform their procedure. Liposuction can leave skin loose, uneven, and wrinkled, though it may tighten over time. Some patients also experience pigmentation following surgery. If leftover fluid collects in the lungs from a tumescent liposuction, serious illness can develop. Tumescent liposuction solution with excessively high lidocaine content may cause lidocaine toxicity.