An Introduction to Body Jet Water-Jet Assisted Liposuction
The increase in popularity of liposuction has led to the development of new techniques designed to improve the outcome and speed up recovery from traditional liposuction. The most popular are power-assisted liposuction, laser-assisted liposuction (Smart Lipo, Laser Lipolysis) and ultrasound-assisted liposuction (Vaser). All these techniques rely on the use of large volumes of tumescent fluid for separation of fat cells, vasoconstriction (to reduce bleeding) and anaesthesia.
Tumescent infiltration causes tissue swelling which reduces operative accuracy, and can result in fluid overload and toxicity issues.
The Water-Jet Assisted Liposuction (WAL) technique was developed by German plastic surgeons to avoid the problems associated with tumescent infiltration. The Body Jet by German company Human Med is the only device currently approved for WAL.
A powerful jet of water is released from the cannula tip. This is strong enough to separate the fat cells without traumatizing other structures such as nerves and blood vessels. The water and released fat cells are immediately aspirated back into the cannula, thus limiting tissue swelling and the problems associated with tumescent fluid.
The procedure is easily tolerated with minimal sedation, hence patient co-operation is maintained. Re-positioning during the procedure allows all contour irregularities to be recognized and treated before the surgery is completed.
The majority of patients who undergo WAL report mild pain in the immediate post-operative period and require little pain relief. One study showed over 90% of patients undergoing WAL were 100% pain-free by the fourth post-operative day.
The WAL technique, also known as Liposoft in some countries, is increasingly recognized as the definitive liposuction technique for modern body contouring surgery.
