Contouring the female buttocks. Liposculpting the buttocks.

Body sculpting has progressed during the past decade to a point where cosmetic units may be sculpted to improve contours which blend imperceptibly and appropriately with adjacent cosmetic units. The buttocks is ideally suited for sophisticated contouring as its frame is determined by the hips, thighs, and lower back and its proportions are balanced by the anterior projection of the breasts. In addition, ethnic differences in the shape and proportions of the buttocks create a variety of aesthetically pleasing variations in size and shape. The article attempts to elucidate these considerations combined with a logical surgical approach to achieve pleasing results in body sculpting.

Safety of ultrasonic-assisted liposuction (UAL) using a non-water-cooled ultrasonic cannula. A report of six cases of disproportionate fat deposits treated with UAL.

BACKGROUND: There has been much medical investigation and much public relations in the media regarding ultrasonic liposuction. With different methodologies and instrumentation for applying ultrasonic energy to soft tissue in conjunction with liposuction, there is appropriate confusion and skepticism in the medical community. OBJECTIVE: To present case reports that delineate the possible morbidities and/or safety of one method of application of ultrasonic energy to enhance liposuction--ultrasonic assisted Liposuction (UAL) performed with a non-water-cooled ultrasonic cannula. METHODS: Description of six cases in which this procedure was performed and their follow-up over a 4-week period. RESULTS: Much of the morbidity described in these six cases was indistinguishable from that noted following standard tumescent liposuction with micro cannulas. There is a significant risk of heat necrosis of soft tissue with this procedure, which can be minimized with proper technique. CONCLUSIONS: UAL with a non-water-cooled cannula can be performed safely when proper education regarding its usage is followed. However, surgeons wishing to perform this technique must be willing to experience a significant learning curve.