Ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty: a review of over 350 consecutive cases using a two-stage technique

Ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL) was developed in Europe and South America. Its introduction into the mainstream of United States surgery in 1997 was initially received with great enthusiasm. Soon, however, anecdotal reports surfaced describing limitations and complications related to the emerging technology. Among the concerns expressed were burns and postoperative seroma formation. The etiology of these complications was speculated to be a result of prolonged ultrasonic energy time. Consequently, some authors recommended limiting the amount of ultrasonic energy time per site and even complete avoidance of UAL in certain body areas. Our review includes over 350 consecutive cases of internal UAL performed by two surgeons utilizing a similar technique. The basic rules of UAL as described by Zocchi were followed without regard to other limitations such as ultrasonic energy site times, body areas, and level of tissue planes. The mechanism of action of UAL and the surgical technique are described. The procedure is a two-stage technique, including tumescent infiltration followed by energy application and simultaneous hollow titanium cannula aspiration. Suction-assisted lipoplasty was not a component of the procedure. The results, including complications, are outlined. Complications were few and not severe. There was no correlation between length of ultrasonic energy time and rate of postoperative complications. The advantages and disadvantages of UAL are discussed. UAL alone is the authors' preferred technique for body contouring to all body areas, except in the female breast.