Comparing ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty with suction-assisted lipoplasty

Ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL) implies that ultrasound energy is applied directly to adipose tissue by means of a probe or cannula, resulting in emulsification of fat. UAL can be performed with either a solid probe or a hollow titanium cannula that vibrates at ultrasonic frequency. Suction-assisted lipoplasty (SAL) implies that adipose tissue is removed from the subcutaneous space by means of a traditional blunt-tip hollow cannula attached to high-power suction. The purpose of this article is not to debate the merits of one technique over the other; it is simply to compare UAL and SAL from a technical standpoint. Given that most plastic surgeons are familiar with SAL and that UAL is still relatively new to US plastic surgeons, the comparison is intended as a jumping board for those who are already proficient at SAL technique who may be interested in expanding their surgical armamentarium. UAL is not a replacement for SAL; it is more an extension of SAL technique.