The Key Differences Between AirSculpt and Traditional Liposuction

When it comes to body contouring procedures, patients today have more options than ever before. Traditional liposuction has long been the popular option for surgical fat removal, but AirSculpt—developed by Dr. Aaron Rollins—has emerged as an innovative alternative.

While both procedures remove unwanted fat, their approaches, techniques, and recovery experiences differ. AirSculpt prides itself on its patented approach that avoids the need for scalpels, stitches, or general anesthesia.

This revolutionary approach to body sculpting has made it increasingly popular among those seeking effective fat removal with minimal disruption to their daily lives. Keep reading to learn the key distinctions between AirSculpt and traditional liposuction.

AirSculpt Vs Traditional Liposuction: How Are They Different?

AirSculpt's minimally invasive technique allows patients to remain awake during the procedure, avoiding the risks of general anesthesia. Many describe the sensation as similar to a deep tissue massage, with mild discomfort at worst reported by most patients. Traditional liposuction is typically done under general anesthesia.

Just because AirSculpt is less invasive does not mean the results are compromised. If anything, they are better. AirSculpt removes fat cell by cell with remarkable precision, resulting in smoother contours and reduced downtime compared to traditional liposuction. The delicate AirSculpt approach not only shortens recovery and lowers discomfort but also makes fat cells more viable for transfer.

Unlike traditional liposuction, which typically requires weeks of recovery and can leave noticeable scarring, AirSculpt patients generally resume normal activities within days. They are left with only a freckle-sized mark that heals without stitches.

How AirSculpt Fat Removal Works

AirSculpt begins with a jet injector, a needleless device that numbs the skin. Then, a two-millimeter wide entry point is gently created on the targeted region's skin with a tool called the biopsy punch. This step replaces the large incision cut with a scalpel often required during traditional liposuction.

A tumescent local anesthetic is then injected into the fat layer to prepare it for extraction. If necessary, medication may also be given to make you more relaxed. 

AirSculpt then gently removes fat cells with an automated cannula that rapidly rotates. This allows surgeons to minimize side effects and deliver smooth results. Traditional liposuction cannulas are more manual and may provide less precise sculpting outcomes. For example, uneven ridges or lumps after liposuction are unfortunately not so rare.  

The goal is to leave only a tiny, freckle-sized mark on the skin instead of the lines or suture marks more common after other procedures. Because AirSculpt physically removes fat cells, the results are permanent.

Is AirSculpt Painful?

Patients who have undergone AirSculpt usually report mild to moderate discomfort at worst, comparing it to anything from an electric toothbrush sensation to a deep tissue massage.

Watch the video above to hear from an actual patient during her surgery. As you can see, she is calm and at ease during her fat removal and transfer treatment. For more real AirSculpt footage, browse our AirSculptTV playlist on YouTube to get an idea of how patients feel during their procedure.  

What's The Recovery Like?

AirSculpt recovery time depends on the complexity of the procedure and how your body responds to the treatment. You can resume normal activities within a couple of days, and patients are asked to take walks the next day.

Full recovery tends to be quicker than traditional liposuction, with most healing fully after three to six months.

Where Can You Get AirSculpt?

This patented procedure is exclusively performed at AirSculpt body contouring locations, which are found in many cities across North America and London. While several practices may claim to offer this treatment, if it is not done at an official location, it is not AirSculpt. 

AirSculpt® Delivers Dramatic Results

AirSculpt® has changed the game of fat removal and fat transfers. Now, you can sculpt several areas without scalpels, stitches, or general anesthesia. Our comparison page explains the differences between AirSculpt and liposuction, helping you make the most informed decision for your body.

For more information on how we can help you, call one of our AirSculpt® offices to schedule your free consultation.