What is ultrasonic liposuction?

The use of ultrasound in liposuction was one of the first assistive modalities added to the technique. The ultrasound cannula is passed under the skin just the same as the liposuction cannula, but when the ultrasound cannula is in, it vibrates at a very high frequency (above the level of human hearing, thus the name ultrasound - 20k Hz and up). This causes mechanical cavitation which lyses the fat cells. It also generates heat as a byproduct of the vibration.

Because of the physics involved, most of the energy goes straight forward from the tip of the cannula. All of this together makes it easier to push the cannula through the fat, and when it is followed up with the traditional liposuction cannula for fat removal, it is easier for the surgeon to move the suction cannula through the liquefied fat for removal. As Dr. Wallach mentioned, a side effect of this heat is the possibility of seromas, or more worrisome, burns.

Several companies have developed refinements on the ultrasonic technology that maintains the benefits (ease of pushing the cannula), but reduces the risk, one of which is VASER. The ultrasound energy can be pulsed on and off rapidly, such that less energy (heat) is delivered, but still enough to assist the surgeon. Additionally, cannula design refinements have been made that alter the physics such that the energy disbursement is not just straight off the tip, but rather in all directions, thus decreasing the chance of "end-hit" skin burns.

There is a lot of technology out there, but in the right hands, many of these devices will give very nice results. Let your surgeon decide what is best, and don't fall for marketing propaganda.