What To Expect After Water-Jet Assisted Liposuction (WAL)?

"Comparison of Power Water-Assisted and Traditional Liposuction: A Prospective Randomized Trial of Post-Operative Pain"
Araco A, Gravante G, et al. In : Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 2007 (31): 259-265

Study Summary:

• 60 patients (32 had WAL)

• Pain & bruising significantly reduced after WAL compared to traditional liposuction.

• Average 4.8X more pain after traditional lipo than WAL

• After 4 days, 87% of WAL patients were free of pain, versus 3.6% of traditional lipo patients

• Operating time shorter for WAL

• Fewer pain killer tablets needed by WAL patients than traditional lipo

Postoperative pain is an important factor that needs to be analyzed when new techniques in cosmetic surgery are introduced. This study shows that power water-assisted liposuction is an almost painless procedure as compared to traditional tumescent liposuction.

Clinical Comparison Between Traditional & Water-Assisted Liposuction

Right leg: traditional tumescent liposuction. Left leg: water-assisted liposuction.

Note that Ultrasound-Assistant Liposuction (VASER & Endotron) requires tumescent infiltration similar to traditional liposuction.

Pre-Operative Baseline

After Infiltration: note increased swelling with traditional lipo

Immediately Post-Op: WAL side much less swollen, with perfect contours

9 Days Post-Op: Minimal swelling in WAL side compared to traditional lipo

* Source: Dr Meyer

Post-Operative Care

1. Compression garments for 4-6 weeks. Continuously for first 2 weeks for best results

2. Off work for 2 days after operation

3. Light activities as tolerated the day after operation

4. Return to exercise once comfortable

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> Mode of Action of WAL
> Comparison Between Liposuction Techniques