Radiofrequency-assisted Liposuction for Arm Contouring: Technique under Local Anesthesia

With the availability of highly advanced medical technologies in the market, established plastic surgery centers now provide aesthetic surgery procedures that involve minimal pain and short recovery period compared to traditional treatments. BodyTite is one such technology by InMode. This platform uses radiofrequency waves for body sculpting, and is an ideal way to get rid of excess fat deposits easily and safely. The recent study conducted by Dr. Spero Theodorou of the bodySCULPT^® plastic surgery practice in Manhattan clearly proves that radiofrequency-assisted liposuction (RFAL) for arm contouring can improve skin retraction with a satisfactory aesthetic result without skin resection and the resultant scar.

The study titled “Radiofrequency-assisted Liposuction for Arm Contouring: Technique under Local Anesthesia” was published in the August 2013 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open, a companion journal to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ flagship publication, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

 The main purpose of this study is to demonstrate a body contouring technique under local anesthesia utilizing radiofrequency energy. The study also highlighted the marking technique, operative technique, complications, implemented safety guidelines, third-party surgeon appraisal, and patient satisfaction survey that exhibit the safe results of RFAL arm contouring.

Forty patients who considered RFAL of bilateral arms from April 2009 through February 2012 in this AAAASF accredited surgical suite were recruited as volunteers from existing patient and staff referrals. The procedure was performed successfully without any major complications.

BodyTite arm liposuction performed by experienced plastic surgeons can help patients achieve results such as:

• Immediate skin tightening
• Minimal discomfort and pain
• Less swelling and bruising
• Shorter downtime
• Efficient body contouring

Rare complications such as burns and seroma that occurred during the procedure were successfully treated with local wound care and aspiration.

Post-operative patient satisfaction surveys held during the study indicated that most patients (80%) had minimal or no discomfort with the injection of local anesthesia, application of radiofrequency energy, or aspiration of fat. Most of the patients were satisfied with their contouring result and degree of skin tightening. 81% patients returned to work within 1-3 days of the procedure.

Third-party plastic surgeon survey was utilized to assess subjective changes in arm contouring following RFAL at 1 year post-op as compared to the preoperative images. 98% of the surgeons stated moderate, good or excellent improvement in arm contour. 95% surgeons stated that the skin tightening aspect was moderate, good, or excellent.

The study also states that potential risks that may occur during the procedure can be minimized with careful consideration of the anatomy, with accurate markings and attention to uniform heating of the tissues.

For a safe BodyTite arm liposuction procedure, it is always advisable to consider the service of a professionally trained and qualified plastic surgeon, experienced in performing advanced liposuction procedures.