Comparing Different Liposuction Techniques: Traditional, VASER & Laser

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a procedure that removes problem areas of body fat that are proving impossible to shift. The most common area for liposuction is the stomach, but people also commonly have it on their hips, thighs, buttocks, back, chest, chin, neck and arms. You can target multiple areas in a single procedure and combine it with other procedures, such as a tummy tuck or breast reduction, to achieve the desired result. 

It’s a common misconception that liposuction is a weight loss treatment—it’s not. Although the physical removal of fat can lead to weight loss of several kilograms, the procedure is focused on creating a more defined and sculpted appearance. Patients suitable for liposuction should already be close to or at their ideal weight and have a body mass index of 30 or less.  

How does liposuction work?

The procedure can be performed under local or general anaesthetic or light sedation, depending on the type of liposuction being used. 

In traditional liposuction, the most common technique, the surgeon makes a small incision into the treatment area. They then insert a solution through a small tube called a cannula that breaks down the fat cells. By moving the cannula around, the surgeon can sculpt the area with precision. They then use a suction cannula to remove up to four litres of fat per treatment before stitching the incision site and applying a sterile dressing. 

The procedure takes between one and three hours, depending on the amount of fat being removed and the number of target areas.

What are the different types of liposuction?

There are several different types of liposuction. At Enhance Medical, we use traditional liposuction, also known as suction-assisted liposuction, for reasons we will explain. However, for clarity, it’s beneficial to understand the other types of liposuction available. 

Traditional liposuction

As described above, this is the most common type of liposuction. It involves a surgeon injecting a solution into the treatment area, which helps to break down the fat so it can be easily ‘vacuumed’ out. Depending on the location and the amount of fat being removed, this technique can be performed under local or general anaesthetic and typically carries fewer risks than VASER or laser liposuction.

VASER liposuction

VASER liposuction, short for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance, is a recent innovation in cosmetic surgery. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses high-frequency ultrasound waves to effectively ‘shake’ fat cells loose. This type of liposuction is quicker than other methods and has a shorter recovery time. However, it’s less effective when targeting larger areas or areas with significant sagging or excess skin. It’s most commonly used to target stubborn fat around the chests of male patients. 

Laser liposuction

This technique can be invasive or non-invasive. The laser applicator is inserted into a small incision or applied on top of the skin. It uses a laser light to break down the fat so it can be removed more easily. Laser liposuction treatment is precise and well-suited to the removal of small areas of stubborn fat in the upper arms and inner thighs, where the skin is thinner and more prone to sagging. It is performed under local anaesthetic or mild sedation. 

Power-assisted liposuction 

Power-assisted liposuction, or PAL lipo, uses a motorised cannula that vibrates rapidly to break up fat cells. The surgeon can then extract them using a suction cannula. This technique is popular for areas such as the back and flanks as it allows the surgeon to remove tough fat more quickly.

Non-surgical liposuction

Non-surgical liposuction techniques use technology, such as heat, sound waves and lasers, to break down fat cells without needing surgery. The benefit of this type of treatment is that the risks are minimal, and there’s little recovery time. However, it’s less effective on larger areas of fat, and you may need multiple treatments to achieve the desired result, which makes it expensive. 

Liposculpture

Liposculpture is another treatment we offer at Enhance Medical. It is similar to liposuction in that it’s a surgical cosmetic procedure to remove fat. However, liposculpture targets smaller areas and focuses on adding definition and sculpting those areas, whereas liposuction removes larger amounts of fat. Liposculpture can be performed under local anaesthetic and has a quick recovery time.

Why do we use traditional liposuction?

Traditional or suction-assisted liposuction is the most common technique used today. We believe it’s the best technique for our patients because it is safe, effective, and produces excellent results.  

One of the major benefits of traditional liposuction is that it does not carry some potential risks associated with VASER or laser liposuction. It causes less trauma to the surrounding tissue, reducing complications like prolonged swelling and fibrosis and leading to a quicker and less painful recovery process. It also allows for precise fat removal, reducing the risks of lumps and dents in the skin. 

How much does liposuction cost?

The price you pay for liposuction differs depending on the type of liposuction you have and the area(s) we treat. At Enhance Medical, liposuction in one area costs £2,995, rising to £5,995 for four areas.  

That price includes every aspect of your treatment, from your pre-op assessment to the comprehensive aftercare. At Enhance, there are no hidden fees, and your initial consultation is free, so you can make an informed decision without paying a penny. Find out more about the cost of liposuction and what it includes. 

Is liposuction safe?

Yes, liposuction is generally considered a safe treatment and has a lower risk of complications than more invasive procedures such as a tummy tuck. Liposuction has advanced significantly over the years and has an excellent safety record. The risks are further reduced when your procedure is performed by a highly skilled surgeon with specific experience in liposuction. 

As with any cosmetic procedure, there is a risk of complications, although those are reduced when removing smaller areas of fat during a shorter procedure. The risks include:

• Lumpy or uneven results
• Excessive bleeding
• Skin discolouration
• Skin numbness
• Prolonged swelling and poor wound healing
• Skin infections
• Anaesthesia complications
• Internal puncture wounds or injuries to organs
• Fat embolism – when fat breaks away and becomes trapped in blood vessels

Thankfully, these types of complications are rare. Side effects, such as bruising, swelling, inflammation and discomfort, are far more common. In the vast majority of cases, they are nothing to worry about and are all part of the healing process. 

Read more: Is liposuction safe: A guide to safe liposuction & common myths

Safe and high-quality liposuction with Enhance Medical

Are you interested in a liposuction or liposculpture procedure? At Enhance Medical, we offer treatments performed by highly qualified, fully licensed surgeons with specialist liposuction experience. If you have a question or would like to know more about how we can help you, please call 0800 060 8630 or book a free consultation at one of our clinics throughout the UK.