Wetting solutions in ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty

Wetting solutions play a crucial role in traditional lipoplasty by reducing blood loss in the aspirate and diminishing postoperative ecchymosis and edema. From the inception of ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty a "wet environment" has been considered essential for efficient fat emulsification and for control of thermal side effects. This article reviews the historical role of wetting solutions in lipoplasty and examines the risks of their use in an overzealous manner. The authors provide safety guidelines for maximizing the benefits of wetting solutions in traditional and ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty while minimizing their side effects and complications.