These days, there are so many terms and types of liposuction that it can make your head spin. Your main goal is to improve the way you look and achieve a slimmer and more youthful appearance, but it can be hard to sort through all the jargon and hype to make the best choice for you.
For example, a popular term right now in cosmetic procedures is Lipo 360. Upon hearing this you may wonder how it is different from traditional liposuction, and if so, which one is the best one. In fact, while they are different terms, there is some degree of overlap between these two procedures.
This guide will help you get a clear picture of both Lipo 360 and traditional liposuction procedures so you can make an informed and confident decision that is best for your needs and lifestyle.
What Is Lipo 360?
Lipo 360, or 360 degree liposuction, is a body sculpting cosmetic procedure that delivers a full 360 degrees of fat removal around the entire midsection. This can include the upper and lower abdominal region, obliques and love handles, as well as mid and lower back fat. It’s important to understand that Lipo 360 does not refer to an exact liposuction procedure or device, so it can actually be performed using “traditional” liposuction techniques.
A Lipo 360 procedure starts with an abdomen-love handle liposuction, starting from just below the breasts to right above the pelvis. Next, the procedure moves around to the sides going most of the way to the spine. This is called anterior lateral abdomen liposuction. This section may also include the mid-back area just below the bra-line in women.
There are a range of different approaches to a Lipo 360 procedure. For example, a true 360 degree liposuction will encompass the sacrum at the base of the spine and the area just above it — underneath the bra-line. People thinking about undergoing a Lipo 360 procedure should ask questions and have a clear picture of which parts of the body will be included.
Lipo 360 can offer patients the following primary benefits:
- The convenience of addressing the entire midsection
- A flatter stomach
- A reduction to or the removal of love handles
- Improve overall appearance and proportions
- Reduce unsightly bulges and spills from clothing, AKA “muffin-tops”
- Lipo 360 can be combined with body sculpting and fat grafting procedures
What Is Traditional Liposuction?
The goal of any liposuction procedure is to remove fat cells from any area of the body, including the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, arms, and neck.
When someone uses the term “traditional liposuction,” it usually refers to a liposuction technique that has been around since the 1970s. This type of procedure, also called suction-assisted liposuction (SAL) or power-assisted liposuction (PAL), involves the surgeon first injecting a sterile saline solution into the area to aid fat removal. Next, the surgeon will make very small cuts into the treatment area and inserts a thin tube, known as a cannula. The tube is connected to a small vacuum, that along with gentle physical manipulation by the surgeon, helps to suction fat out of the body.
Benefits of traditional liposuction include:
- A proven approach to fat removal
- Can be used throughout the body
- Can be broken up over multiple procedures
- Can be combined with other techniques
Traditional liposuction is most often seen in contrast with newer approaches to liposuction such as SmartLipo, which involves a laser to help break up the fat, or ultrasound-assisted liposuction, which uses soundwaves to help break up fat.
What Is the Difference Between Traditional Liposuction and Lipo 360?
Lipo 360 and traditional liposuction are not competing procedures or contrasting ideas. Lipo 360 basically involves any all-inclusive liposuction procedure that is designed to address the entire midsection. Traditional liposuction is one of many approaches to liposuction. Both procedures require the elements mentioned above or injecting the numbing fluid and removing the fat using suction. So basically, a Lipo 360 procedure is a combination package performed using traditional techniques.
Additionally, traditional liposuction can be performed on areas throughout the body, including the midsection. Lipo 360 just includes the midsection.
How to Choose Which One Is Right for You
Deciding whether you need a full Lipo 360, or just want to target specific areas, and what type of procedure to undergo are personal decisions that depend on a number of factors. These can include:
- Your lifestyle and wellness goals
- Your specific problem areas
- Your budget and financial situation
- Your goals for recovery
- The specific provider you choose
At Innovations Medical, our knowledgeable and caring team can help you decide the right options and techniques for your needs. Dr. Bill Johnson and staff will perform a thorough consultation and evaluation to help you understand your options and choose the procedure or procedures that are the best fit for your life.
Contact Innovations Medical to Learn About Your Body Shaping Options
If you’re looking for a slimmer appearance that will help you be your best self, Innovations Medical is here for you. Our skilled professionals help you decide which treatment is best for you – keeping you informed and confident in the next steps. We’ve been helping our patients look and feel their best since 2005, and even our most advanced procedures are often minimally invasive.
To find out if our body shaping procedures are right for you, including Lipo 360 and traditional liposuction, and to learn how Innovations Medical can improve your life, call us at (214) 643-8665 or schedule an appointment.