What are the Different Kinds of Liposuction?

Liposuction names can describe different parts of the same procedure: the numbing solution, a motorized cannula, or an added energy device. In this episode, New York City board-certified plastic surgeon Darren M. Smith, MD, FACS explains the vocabulary and why a device name alone does not determine the right plan.

Originally published August 26, 2020. The device comparisons reflect Dr. Smith's experience at the time. He explicitly distinguishes those preferences from comparative research evidence.

Key takeaways

🔬 The underlying procedure removes fat through a cannula.

Dr. Smith first describes access incisions, numbing medication, and suction before explaining the additional terminology.

🔎 Tumescent and power-assisted describe different features.

One refers to the fluid placed in the treatment area; the other to mechanical movement of the cannula.

🔎 Energy devices are not interchangeable labels.

The recording discusses laser energy with SmartLipo, ultrasound with VASER, and radiofrequency approaches including BodyTite and J-Plasma.

🔬 Fat removal and skin laxity are separate planning questions.

Dr. Smith discusses why easier fat removal does not automatically establish how much skin tightening an individual will achieve.

🎯 Patient selection remains central.

He explains that substantial loose skin may exceed what an adjunctive tightening treatment can address.

🎧 Episode guide

00:00 — Introduction

02:11 — Tumescent solution

02:56 — Power-assisted liposuction

04:10 — Laser, ultrasound, and radiofrequency devices

06:51 — Experience versus comparative evidence

08:49 — Skin tightening and patient selection

What does tumescent liposuction mean?

It refers to the solution injected into the treatment area as part of the procedure. In the recording, Dr. Smith explains how the term relates to the tissue becoming firm after that fluid is introduced.

What is power-assisted liposuction?

It uses a motorized cannula that moves rapidly to help the surgeon remove fat. Dr. Smith describes it as mechanical assistance within liposuction, rather than a separate approach to weight loss.

Will an energy device eliminate loose skin?

That cannot be assumed from the device name. The episode emphasizes the degree of laxity, patient selection, and the operator's experience. Its 2020 comparisons should not be read as a current ranking of every available device.

ℹ️ Current related reading

Liposuction technologies and the practice's current approach | Liposuction | BodyTite | Request a consultation

About the host — current biography

Darren M. Smith, MD, FACS specializes in mommy makeover surgery, breast surgery, and body contouring in Manhattan. He was named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026 and has co-authored authoritative peer-reviewed publications on combined breast surgery and abdominoplasty and the surgical care of postpartum patients.

Educational information; the appropriate technique and expected outcome require an individual assessment. Show notes updated September 30, 2026.

Full transcript and related resources