The sound waves are able to modify the organic structure
when they are transmitted through the fluids. The ultrasound
was used for the first time, in a surgery of cataracts
during the 1960s with the introduction of the facoemulsion.
Its use has been extended to diverse branches of surgery;
its objective has been the destruction of selective
unwanted tissue.
Italian doctor, Michele Zocchi, in 1988, was the first
Plastic Surgeon who applied the ultrasonic waves to
selectively destroy the fat cells of the body, the
formidable results encouraged investigations at world-wide
level which still continue; for that reason technology and
knowledge undergo transformations, and new concepts and
indications appear.
For a sound wave, which is mechanical energy, to become
ultrasonic, its frequency should be over 16000 kHz. In
Plastic Surgery, this is generated from crystals that have
the piezoelectric ability; this means that they are able to
deform with alternating electrical current. These
fluctuations of the deformation produce vibrations in
ultrasonic frequencies; the same ones that amplified are
canalized through a cannula, which is introduced between the
fat cells, and destabilizes them, causing the rupture of
their cellular membranes, releasing its content, which is
sucked at low pressure by the cannula. This is how the
ultrasound is used to sculpt the body.
The best candidates for the liposculpture attended with
ultrasound (LAU) are the same as those for liposculpture
attended by suction (SALT).The patients who have a normal
weight, elastic skin but with fat build-up that doesn’t
disappear with exercise or dieting.
To choose
the ideal method to perform the liposculpture depends on the
experience and training of the surgeon, both techniques, the
one attended by suction LAS (conventional) and the one
assisted by ultrasound LAU, have advantages when comparing
them, with specific indications that, to certain extent
makes them complementary. The surgeon will be the one to
decide which one is the best for you.
On the other hand liposculpture isn’t recommended for
patients with systemic, cardiac, or pulmonary diseases,
diabetes or degenerative sicknesses. The specific
complication that can develop with the use of ultrasound is
the local burning of the skin, complication that is avoided
if the plastic surgeon is well trained in this technique.
Finally, the liposculpture is a simple surgical procedure,
meant for patients who have decided to change their
lifestyle to a healthier and more disciplined one. For that
reason the patient must make the commitment to take care of
the surgery results by exercising and dieting.
