Power Assisted Liposuction

Power assisted liposuction is one of the most recent innovations in liposuction. Also called power liposuction, P.A.L., or powered liposuction, power-assisted liposuction involves the use of a powered liposuction cannula handle which superimposes an additional movement to the liposuction cannula. That is, a smaller and different motion on top of the normal to-and-fro advance and withdrawal of the cannula. There are two different types of motion in powerd liposuction systems. The movement can be either a small to and fro motion, or it can be a partial rotation type of motion of the cannula.

In either case, the size of the motion due to the power device is small. It may be just a few degrees back and forth in the rotating type. This motion may be likened to that of an electric toothbrush. In the reciprocating type, it may be just a few millimeters (a small fraction of an inch) back and forth, advancing and retreating. In either case, the additional motion is not only small, it is rapid - like a vibration. It is rapid enough (generally 400-5,000 strokes per minute) that you cannot really see the back and forth motion, you merely see that it is vibrating. How patients describe it.

However, the additional superimposed motion of the powered cannula allows the potential for a more precise and a more rapid removal of fat. More efficient removal of the fat allows the liposuction procedure to to procede more smoothly and more rapidly. Greater comfort, decreased bruising, decreased swelling, and thus a more rapid recovery may also result. In addition, more fat may be able to be removed from difficult-to-treat areas, such as those where tissue is more fibrous and fat is otherwise more difficult to remove.


	In contrast to ultrasonic liposuction, no significant thermal energy (heat) is applied with power-assisted liposuction. Therefore, powered liposuction does not carry the risk of burns and burn-related damage that is associated with ultrasonic liposuction.


	Power assisted liposuction is well suited to the tumescent technique, so it is possible to take advantage of both of these advances. Take a look at our tumescent liposuction page to find out more about the compelling advantages of the tumescent technique for liposuction, including results, rapid recovery, and the elimination of general anesthesia and its associated risks.


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	Jeffrey Melton, M.D., S.C., Chicago and Oakbrook Center Mall, Oak Brook, Illinois (630) 928-0240 www.drmelton.com