ASAPS Member Survey Shows Preference for Traditional Lipo

With all the hype and discussion about new fat removal methods, you might begin to think that every plastic surgeon is using a new laser or ultrasonic liposuction device.

But you would be wrong to assume this, according to a recent survey of plastic surgeons from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. In fact, many members in the prestigious group say they prefer the tried-and-true suction-assisted lipectomy, a method commonly called “traditional liposuction.”

A new study of current fat removal surgery trends, which is available in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, includes a survey with 17 questions about liposuction and fat reduction in plastic surgery.

After tallying responses from over 1700 surgeons, the study authors came up with these figures:

• 51.4 percent preferred suction assisted liposuction
• 23 percent preferred power assisted liposuction
• 20.9 percent preferred ultrasound assisted liposuction
• 3.9 percent said they preferred laser assisted lipo

Non-invasive liposuction alternatives were last on the list of preferred fat removal methods, making up just 0.8 percent. Many respondents said they had no experience with laser assisted liposuction or non-invasive fat removal devices.

“Our survey found that ASAPS members tend to more frequently employ the fat removal methods that have the longest track records and the most data to support their efficacy and safety,” said lead author Jamil Ahmad, MD.

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