Role of Ultrasound in Cosmetic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery has become increasingly popular in recent years, with people seeking to enhance their appearance through various procedures.
Ultrasound, also known as ultrasonic or high-frequency is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique that uses sound waves to produce images of structures within the body.
In my experience over last decade the ultrasound technology has evolved in the field of aesthetics.
Main uses of ultrasound in cosmetic surgery:
1. Liposuction–
It involves removal of fat with a small cannula. It is done just beneath the skin. Surgeon’s experience plays a great role in determining exact layer but to prevent going into muscle or for beginners Ultrasound can be a good technique to remain safe.
2. BBL-
Brazilian Butt lift involves fat transfer to buttocks. Safe Subcutaneous Buttock augmentation involves putting fat underneath the buttock. Fat embolism which is a fatal complication is usually due to the fact that fat goes into major vessels. Ultrasound technologies is now mandated by law in some states in USA like Florida while doing BBL.
3. Breast Surgery –
It can be used in the cases of breast implant, breast reduction or especially the revision cases to know the status of tissue, gland, capsular contracture, malignancy etc.
4. Post surgery seroma/hematoma –
Post Tummy tuck seroma can remain an issue. It’s a collection of fluid post surgery in which ultrasound can identify and help in taking out
5. Gynecomastia – To ensure proper gland removal has been done, it’s usually done before and after surgery.
6. Facial fillers- To prevent any kind of vascular occlusion and know different anatomical places, Ultrasound can be used while injecting fillers.
My take –
Ultrasound technology is here to stay as it promotes safety and better results in cosmetic surgery. The laws in India at the moment because of PNDT are stringent and must be respected. It should be used judiciously keep in mind all the points. Company should come up with probes that promote ultrasound of only skin layers or it should be done in hospital based setup so that misuse is not there.