Today, liposuction and fat sculpting are two of the most popular minimally invasive procedures. Both procedures help patients achieve a more streamlined appearance by removing persistent fat from specific body areas. While both approaches have been around for many years, there has been a growing trend toward using minimally invasive techniques to perform them. In this blog post we will discuss the increasing trend of minimally invasive fat sculpting and explore some of the benefits of this procedure.
What Is Minimally Invasive Fat Sculpting?
Minimally invasive fat sculpting? Is an outpatient procedure that uses an energy source such as radiofrequency or laser to break up and liquify fat which is then suctioned out. The technical term for liposuction that is assisted by an energy source for easier fat removal is called lipoplasty. It is often used to improve the appearance of the neck, jawline, arms, breasts, abdomen, back, hips, and legs. Minimally invasive methods are less likely to cause bruising and swelling than traditional liposuction, and they typically require only a local anesthetic. Examples of minimally invasive fat sculpting are bodytite, facetite and accutite by Inmode. It uses a radiofrequency device to liquify the fat and tighten the skin. The fat is then suctioned out with a cannula.
As a result, patients can usually return to their normal activities much sooner than traditional liposuction. In addition, minimally invasive fat sculpting can be performed using small incisions, which reduces the risk of scarring and prolonged recovery time. Nevertheless, these procedures may not be suitable for everyone, and patients should consult with a qualified physician to determine if they are appropriate candidates.
Who Are The Best Candidates For This Treatment?
The best candidates for minimally invasive fat sculpting are typically healthy adults with good skin elasticity and a localized area of excess fat that is difficult to remove even with proper exercise and diet. Their body mass index should be no more than 35. Patients should also have realistic expectations about the results of their procedure.
While minimally invasive fat sculpting can help patients achieve a more toned and shapely appearance, they are not intended to be used as a weight-loss solution. In addition, patients should be willing to commit to a healthy lifestyle following their procedure, as weight gain can negate treatment effects.
What Are The Benefits?
There are many benefits associated with minimally invasive fat sculpting. As we mentioned earlier, the procedure is less likely to cause bruising and swelling than traditional liposuction. In addition, they can be performed using a small incision, which reduces the risk of scarring. The patient recovers faster and can resume work sooner.
Minimally invasive fat sculpting can also be used to treat multiple body areas at once. This is often referred to as “sculpting” or “contouring.” Patients can achieve more dramatic results with minimal downtime by targeting various regions in a single treatment session.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of minimally invasive fat sculpting will vary depending on the number of treated areas required. However, in general, these procedures are less expensive than traditional liposuction. You can expect to pay between $2000 and $5000 for a single treatment session.
In addition, the minimal downtime associated with minimally invasive fat sculpting can save patients money on recovery costs, such as missed workdays or childcare expenses. Since the procedure is done with local anesthesia, there is less expense and recovery time than a traditional liposuction which may require general anesthesia.
Are There Any Risks Or Side Effects?
As with any surgical procedure, risks and potential side effects are associated with minimally invasive fat sculpting. These include infection, bleeding, and numbness. However, these risks are typically minimal when a qualified physician performs the procedures.
In comparison, traditional liposuction carries a higher risk of complications due to the larger incisions and more invasive nature of the procedure. They can include fat embolization and pulmonary embolus.
What Should You Expect During Your Consultation?
First, your physician will assess your medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination. They will then discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure. Once they better understand what you are hoping to achieve, they will develop a customized treatment plan.
Next, your doctor will explain the risks and potential side effects of minimally invasive fat sculpting and liposuction. They will also answer any questions you may have about the procedure.
Finally, your doctor will provide you with a quote for the cost of treatment. Once you have decided to move forward with surgery, they will schedule a date for your procedure.
What To Expect The Day Of Your Procedure?
Minimally invasive fat sculpting is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. This means you will be able to go home the same day as your treatment.
Before your procedure, you will meet with your doctor to review the treatment plan. They will mark the areas to be treated. Once you are ready, you will be given a mild sedative and pain killer to help you relax.
Your physician will make small incisions in the specific treatment areas and insert an energy device. The device discharges high energy (radiofrequency) which instantaneously melt the fat deposits while tightening the skin using thermal energy. A traditional liposuction cannula is then used to remove the liquified fat from the body.
Once the desired results have been achieved, your doctor closes the incisions and applies a dressing to the treated area. A compression garment is then placed on the body part to reduce swelling and help the skin retract to a new, leaner body.
You will be taken to a recovery area, where you will be monitored for any complications. Once your doctor is confident that you are stable, they will discharge you to go home.
What Is The Recovery Process Like?
As mentioned earlier, recovery from minimally invasive fat sculpting is typically very short. Most patients only need a few days before they can resume their normal activities.
During the first 24 hours after your procedure, it is essential to rest and avoid strenuous activity. Afterwards, Light walking is suggested to avoid blood clots and improve blood flow thus speeding the healing process. These precautions will help you recover faster and avoid complications.
After the first day, you can gradually increase your activity level. However, avoiding strenuous activity and direct heat to the treated areas.
Most patients take about one to two weeks before they feel completely back to normal.
What Are The Results?
Minimally invasive fat sculpting and liposuction can achieve impressive results. Most patients will see a noticeable reduction in the size of their treatment area. They can expect to see a reduction of one to two inches in the treated areas. Results typically improve over time as the swelling goes down and the skin tightens around the newly contoured area.
Conclusion
Minimally invasive fat sculpting is a safe and effective procedure that can help you achieve your desired body shape. The procedure is less invasive, with a short recovery time. Most patients see noticeable results after just one treatment.
Consult with a certified physician if you consider minimally invasive fat sculpting. They will be able to answer any questions you have and help you decide if the procedure is correct for you.
