Tickle Lipo, also known as, Nutational Infrasonic Liposuction (NIL) and Nutational Custom Acoustic Liposuction (CAL), is a new procedure that significantly reduces discomfort during a liposuction treatment. It is much faster than other traditional or laser liposuction methods, as well as safer.
How does Tickle Lipo work?
Custom acoustic liposuction works by a cannula being inserted into a small incision. These cannulas are operated by air and produce no heat, which assists in reducing patient discomfort. The cannula is vibrated at 10 Hz, which is what breaks up the fat, making extraction easier. Since the fat is aspirated through the same cannula, the procedure takes less time than a conventional liposuction. Also, since there is no heat applied, the fat that is recovered can be reused if fat transplantation is to occur. The gentle whirling motion is what reduces pain and causes the tickle sensation. This is believed to happen because it activates other nerves along with the ones that produce pain, thereby sending a mixed signal to the brain.
What areas of the body does Tickle Lipo treat?
Tickle Lipo is able to be used on many parts of the body. These areas include, but are not limited to, the upper arms, chin, inner thighs, outer thighs, abdomen and chest. There are different sized cannulas for treating different areas, which makes it ideal for areas that are difficult to treat with other liposuction methods.
What are the advantages of Tickle Lipo over other similar treatments?
Custom acoustic liposuction offers numerous advantages over other liposuction treatments. One advantage is that Tickle Lipo’s technique of fat liquefying and simultaneous aspiration makes the procedure much shorter. Additionally, patients report less discomfort during the procedure, as well as less bruising and swelling during their short recovery time. Using custom acoustic liposuction for fat removal also allows the unheated fat to be harvested for transplantation, and this procedure is generally less expensive, because a surgery room and general anesthesia are generally not needed.
Who is a candidate for Tickle Lipo?
Anyone who is looking to tighten and tone their body, but is otherwise healthy, is a great candidate.
How is Tickle Lipo performed?
A local anesthetic is usually all that is needed, unless you are removing five liters of fat or more, and then a heavier anesthetic is recommended. A tumescent entry starts the procedure. Then the cannula starts to move in a 3D pattern (that means it moves in more than one plane) that breaks apart and aspirates fat all at the same time. While the surgeon is performing custom acoustic liposuction, patients generally feel only minimal discomfort; however, the procedure does involve a tickling sensation that sometimes causes patients to giggle or laugh during treatment. The length of the operation depends on the amount of fat being removed, but it is faster than traditional liposuction. After the treatment session, there is usually no need for sutures.
What is the recovery like?
Recovery time is minimal. Since general anesthesia is not used, you are able to leave as soon as the procedure is over. You can resume your normal activities in just a few days after receiving custom acoustic liposuction.
What will the results be like?
Results will vary from person to person. In general, you will see results immediately. These include a slimmer and toner area where the procedure was performed. Some patients see full results in as little as one month, while most realize optimal results within a few months.
What are the risks?
Like anything there are some risks with custom acoustic liposuction. Since general anesthesia is not used and no heat is applied, the risks are minimized. The biggest risk is uneven fat distribution and loose skin. Both of these can easily be fixed by the surgeon at a later time.
Is Tickle Lipo FDA approved for use in the U.S.?
Yes, Tickle Lipo has been approved by the FDA.
Is Tickle Lipo covered by insurance companies?
Tickle lipo is a cosmetic procedure and most likely not covered by insurance. Talk to your surgeon’s office billing specialist to see if they offer payment plans, if needed.
By Dermanetwork.org Staff
Updated: July 23, 2010
