Tummy Tuck Alternative

Author Rod Davis, PA-C

In any consultation, I want to give patients realistic expectations of what the liposculpture procedure can do for them.  I initially told this patient that she may be happier with a tummy tuck in addition to lipo. I also mentioned that there was a good possibility her skin would remain somewhat loose even after a perfectly performed lipo procedure.  She did not want to undergo an invasive procedure like adominoplasty (tummy tuck) and finally chose lipo as an alternative.   In just 6 weeks this patient enjoyed dramatic results and was thrilled with the outcome.  Her results continued to improve.

"...Let me tell you when i went for my consultation i was very [embarrassed] for Rod to see my stomach,because it was something that was very difficult to show people, but Rod made me so comfortable,and advised me that he would be able to help me,but wasn't sure of the results that would come but assured me that I would see a difference. Right away I scheduled my procedure I had lipo done on October 8th. and let me tell you that this was the best money that we have ever spent!!!! .... I am now 4 months post lipo and I felt it was time to share this because the results that I have had are unbelievable, I am in shock at the results that I have,and I can actually wear tight fitting shirts now rather then wearing big shirts to hide my stomach..i just can't say enough about Rod and his staff they have absolutely changed my life!!!!!!!"

  -Robyn G. on Yelp.com

Contact a liposculpture specialist to learn more about the liposculpture procedure and if it is the right fit for you.  Visit www.PacificLipo.com to schedule a free consultation with Rod Davis, PA-Certified, or to submit a Virtual Consultation.

View more before and after photos of abdominal liposculpture in 

Pacific Lipo's Photo Gallery.

Liposuction - What Is the Best Technique For Me?

Author: Rodney Davis, Physician Assistant-Certified

There are several different techniques for achieving virtually the same results – despite all of the marketing claims. So what do you need to know before choosing which option is best for you? I have briefly outlined the three major methods that every prospective patient should be aware of before moving forward with liposuction.

Ultasound Assisted Liposuction (UAL)

This method was originally considered an advancement in liposuction methods in the 1990’s. Vaser is one of the main manufactures in this realm of UAL devices. ULA uses cannulas which send ultrasound energy through the fatty tissues, thereby liquefying the fat tissue. Most providers now agree that this method carries an increased risk of skin and tissue burns, permanent tissue damage, scarring, nerve damage, and localized fluid accumulation called seromas. There is insufficient proof of the safety of UAL devices therefore the FDA has never approved the marketing and advertising of UAL devices to be specifically used for liposuction.

Power Assisted Liposuction

Power Assisted Liposuction or PAL is a form of liposuction that uses vibrating straw-like cannulas of varying sizes, to break up and remove fat cells.  This method allows the practioner to use less force while suctioning out fatty deposits compared to manual liposuction. The use of less physical force during the procedure is not only a more efficient way for the provider to remove fat, but may also lessen the amount of swelling to the tissues and minimize the degree of trauma to the incisions.

Laser Liposuction

Most advertising would suggest that laser manufactures such as SmartLipo and its competitors have completely reinvented liposuction. However, in reality all of the basic steps involved with traditional liposuction are usually performed with laser liposuction including the frequent sedation of the patients, the injection of tumescent fluid (numbing solution), as well as the suction of fat. With laser lipolysis there is always an additional step which involves the burning of fat just before removal. Initially, the laser was intended to be used without liposuction of the fat. ‘Melted’ fat was to be resorbed by the body. This has generally been shown to be ineffective. Most liposuctionists now agree that fat must be removed after the burning. Ironically, this is achieved in the EXACT same manner as would be performed without the laser.

Some known disadvantages of the laser are that the act of burning fat makes this a more invasive procedure. Burning can lead to complications and permanent injuries to the skin and surrounding tissues. This procedure can sometimes be more expensive and is frequently used by non-experts.

SmartLipo was the first laser FDA approved for this procedure, many other “fat melting” lasers are now on the market and many others are being developed. Other lasers include CoolLipo and LipoLite. Proponents of laser assisted liposuction claim that lasers have the ability to emulsify fat and tighten skin. Reportedly, skin tightening occurs due to laser energy which breaks collagen bonds in the dermis stimulating new collagen to form. This process is call neocollagenesis.

Before and After Liposculpture by Rod Davis, PA-C at Pacific Lipo

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No certain brand of lipolysis laser at this point has been proven to be superior to any other. In my opinion, it is actually the skill of the provider in proper tumescent liposuction technique that is the best predictor of outcome.

For more information on Liposuction in San Diego, please contact Pacific Lipo at (858) 427-8899. To ask Physician Assistant Rod Davis a liposuction question – email rod@pacificlipo.com.

Pacific Liposculpture vs. Lipodisolve (Lipolysis or Mesotherapy)

Author: Rodney Davis, Physician Assistant-Certified

Lipodisolve (also known as Lipo Disolve or Lipo Dissolve) is a nonsurgical alternative to liposuction that uses a chemical formula injected into the unwanted fatty areas of your body. Lipodissolve uses a combination of chemicals, such as phosphatidylcholine, deoxycholate, multivitamins, alpha lipid acid, enzymes, and plant extracts that are currently not approved by the FDA. Therefore, the FDA is unable to support the safety and effectiveness of Lipo Dissolve. Like other procedures, Lipo Disolve includes several risk factors such as skin deformation, scarring, and painful knots that can form in the injected areas.

At Pacific Lipo, we believe our minimally invasive liposuction technique offers lower risks than other procedures. With use of laser liposuction technology (much like SmartLipo), San Diego based liposculpting specialists permanently remove unwanted fat from the chin, jowls, hips, arms, thighs, male breast (chest), bufffalo hump, back, flanks, abdomen, and most other areas of the body. And with our advanced body sculpting technique, we permanently remove fat, tighten skin and contour the body with little to know downtime, no stitching or scarring.  Our patients usually return to work within a day or two following their liposculpture procedure.  All this can be done under a budget most patients can easily afford.

If you are interested in having an advanced lipo procedure at Pacific Lipo, call our office today at 858.427-8899 or complete a virtual consultation today with Rod Davis, Physician Assistant.