Answer:
Ultrasonic liposuction is a technique whereby specially designed titanium probes are used to deliver ultrasonic energy into the subcutaneous space, where the energy causes strong cellular fragmentation and diffusion of the lipid matrix of the adipocytes into the intercellular spaces. The emulsified fat is then removed by low level aspiration.
In the Oct 1996 Clinics in Plastic Surgery, on Body Contouring, Dr. Zocchi claims that UAL is a highly effective procedure which selectively cavitates and removes fat from lipocytes while selectively destroying only these cells. Superfical UAL causes selective destruction of subcutaneous adipocytes and retraction of tissues through stimulation of the inner surface of the dermis, and can be used on patients with loose skin and superficial irregularities, as well as cellulite. In addition, the maximum amount of fat which can be removed by UAL is much higher than that for traditional tumescent liposuction, with a peak of 15 L, such that UAL can be considered a therapy for obesity.
Overall, this report seems somewhat biased, with little to no mention of possible pitfalls or limitations.
Complications of UAL include: thermal injury to the skin or deeper structures. The probe needs to be in constant motion and the tissues need to be well infiltrated to prevent overheating and destruction of tissues. A skin protector must be used to prevent burning of the skin at the entry point. Prolonged static application (over 20 seconds) of ultrasonic energy to a skin incision or any other anatomic structure can very quickly cause perforation or structural damage due to thermal injury.