With all the discussion about new fat removal techniques, you might begin to think that every plastic surgeon in New York was using a laser or ultrasound assisted liposuction device.

But you would be wrong to assume this, according to a recent survey of plastic surgeons from the ASAPS. In fact, many members in the prestigious group say they prefer tried and true suction-assisted lipectomy, which is commonly called “traditional liposuction.”

A new study of current fat removal surgery trends, which is available in the latest Aesthetic Surgery Journal, includes a survey with 17 questions about liposuction and fat reduction in plastic surgery.

After tallying responses from over 1700 surgeons, the study authors came up with these figures:

• 51.4 percent preferred suction assisted liposuction
• 23 percent preferred power assisted liposuction
• 20.9 percent preferred ultrasound assisted liposuction
• 3.9 percent said they preferred laser assisted lipo

Non-invasive liposuction alternatives were last on the list of preferred fat removal methods, making up just 0.8 percent. Many respondents said they had no experience with laser assisted liposuction or non-invasive fat removal devices.

“Our survey found that ASAPS members tend to more frequently employ the fat removal methods that have the longest track records and the most data to support their efficacy and safety,” said lead author Jamil Ahmad, MD.

“Traditional liposuction still lives!” says Seattle area plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Rand. On realself.com, he writes: “Traditional liposuction combined with a modified tumescent technique is still the gold standard for liposuction. Do not be deceived by all the cleverly named “newer” techniques promising more than they can deliver.”

Read more about liposuction and body contouring in Dobbs Ferry and Scarsdale in Westchester County, NY