Fat Removal with MicroAire PAL

Posted on by Expert Medical Contributors

Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) is an advanced fat removal technology designed to improve precision while minimizing strain on the surgeon. Among PAL systems, the MicroAire PAL® System is one of the most trusted and widely used. This system uses a high-speed, reciprocating cannula that vibrates in a back-and-forth motion to gently break up fat from surrounding tissues, making it easier to remove with less trauma.

Key Features of PAL (Power-Assisted Liposuction)

Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) is a cutting-edge technique that uses mechanical assistance to improve the efficiency and precision of liposuction. The system operates with several key features that make it an attractive choice for both patients and surgeons:

1. Mechanized Power System

The mechanized power system drives the cannula back and forth up to 4,000 times per minute, creating a rapid, oscillating motion that significantly reduces the effort required to break apart fat. This high-frequency movement enables the surgeon to remove larger volumes of fat in less time, making it an excellent choice for high-volume fat removal procedures.

2. Multiple Cannula Types

PAL is compatible with a wide range of specialized cannulas, such as Mercedes Tri-Port and Multi-Hole types. These different cannula designs allow the surgeon to customize the procedure based on the treatment area and goals, ensuring optimal results. Each type of cannula is designed to address specific challenges, whether it’s handling dense fat or delicate skin areas.

3. Reciprocating Motion

Unlike traditional rotary (spinning) cannulas, the PAL system utilizes a reciprocating motion, meaning that the cannula moves back and forth rather than spinning continuously. This type of motion allows for more precise directional control, improving fat removal accuracy and reducing the risk of uneven skin surfaces. It also minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, ensuring smoother results.

4. Versatile Applications

PAL is ideal for a wide range of procedures, including large-volume fat removal, body sculpting, and fat harvesting. It’s also used for preparing tissue for combination treatments, such as fat transfer procedures. This versatility makes PAL suitable for various body areas, from the abdomen and thighs to more challenging regions like the male chest (gynecomastia) or upper back.

Who Is PAL Suitable For?

Power-Assisted Liposuction is a suitable treatment option for patients with specific body contouring needs. The procedure is especially beneficial for those looking to target areas with higher fat volumes or dense fat deposits, while also offering options for fat harvesting. Ideal candidates for PAL include:

1. Moderate to Large-Volume Fat Removal

PAL is highly effective for patients who need moderate to large-volume fat removal, particularly from areas like the abdomen, thighs, back, or arms. Its ability to efficiently break down fat with minimal effort makes it the go-to option for larger treatment areas.

2. Fat Transfer Procedures (BBL and Facial Fat Grafting)

PAL is a popular choice for patients undergoing fat transfer procedures, such as Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) or facial fat grafting. By harvesting fat more gently, PAL preserves the integrity of the fat cells, ensuring higher quality fat for transplantation. The system is often used in combination with fat purification technologies like the LipoFilter® to ensure the best fat quality.

3. Dense or Fibrous Fat Areas

Areas with dense or fibrous fat, such as the male chest (for gynecomastia treatment) or upper back, are often more challenging to treat with traditional liposuction methods. PAL excels in these situations, as its reciprocating motion allows for efficient fat removal even in more stubborn or dense tissue areas.

4. Not for Skin Tightening Alone

While PAL is excellent for fat removal, it does not provide skin tightening benefits. For optimal results, skin-tightening devices like BodyTite, J-Plasma, or FaceTite should be used in conjunction with PAL to address any skin laxity and achieve smoother, firmer skin post-procedure.

Advantages of PAL

PAL offers several advantages that set it apart from traditional liposuction methods. It provides efficiency, precision, and patient comfort, making it an ideal choice for both patients and surgeons. Key benefits include:

1.Efficient and Fast Fat Removal

The vibrating cannula of PAL allows for quick and efficient fat removal with minimal effort. The high-frequency movement reduces the need for extensive manual effort, speeding up the process and allowing surgeons to treat larger areas in less time.

2.Reduces Surgeon Fatigue

Because PAL uses a mechanized system to assist with fat removal, surgeons experience less physical fatigue during high-volume procedures. This results in a smoother and more controlled operation, reducing strain on the surgeon and improving their focus on achieving optimal results.

3.High Precision in Body Sculpting

The precise cannula motion allows for excellent control over the treatment area, particularly when using specialized cannulas like the Tri-Port or HD types. This precision ensures natural, well-contoured results and minimizes the risk of uneven skin surfaces or over-reduction in targeted areas.

4.Versatility Across Body Areas

PAL can be used across a wide variety of body areas, from the abdomen and flanks to thighs, arms, and even smaller or more delicate regions. The system is easily adapted to the needs of each patient, providing the flexibility needed to target different fat types and areas.

5.Fat Harvesting Capabilities

PAL is ideal for fat harvesting, particularly when the fat is being collected for transfer procedures. Its gentle action ensures that fat cells remain intact and viable, making it a top choice for fat grafting procedures such as BBL or facial fat grafting.

6.Less Tissue Trauma

Compared to traditional liposuction techniques, PAL generates less tissue trauma. The gentle vibration of the cannula reduces the likelihood of bruising, swelling, and other complications, resulting in a quicker recovery time for patients.

Limitations and Considerations

While PAL offers several advantages, there are important considerations and limitations to keep in mind

1. Does Not Provide Skin Tightening

As mentioned earlier, PAL does not tighten skin. If patients require skin tightening in addition to fat removal, they should consider combining PAL with BodyTite, J-Plasma, or FaceTite for optimal aesthetic results.

2. Requires Skillful Control of Vibration

The success of PAL depends on the surgeon’s ability to control the vibration strength effectively, particularly in delicate areas. Improper control may result in uneven fat removal or damage to surrounding tissues. Surgeons must have experience and training to ensure optimal outcomes.

3. Machine Noise and Vibration

During the procedure, the machine’s noise and vibration may be noticeable. While this is a common characteristic of all mechanical devices, it may be uncomfortable for some patients. Surgeons and staff should ensure that patients are informed about the process to set expectations.

4. Cannula Selection is Crucial

Choosing the right cannula is critical to the success of the procedure. Overly aggressive cannulas in sensitive areas may result in uneven skin surfaces or contour irregularities. Surgeons must carefully select the appropriate cannula based on the treatment area and fat consistency.

5. Professional Training is Essential

PAL requires a surgeon to have specific skills and training in mechanized liposuction techniques. Surgeons performing this procedure should be well-versed in how to use the device, especially when treating complex or delicate areas such as the neck or inner thighs.

Common Combination Treatments with PAL

PAL can be used alongside various other aesthetic technologies to enhance the overall treatment results. Some of the most common combinations include:

1. BodyTite / FaceTite

After fat removal with PAL, radiofrequency (RF) energy can be applied through BodyTite or FaceTite to tighten and firm the skin. This combination is especially beneficial for patients who require fat removal alongside skin tightening.

2. J-Plasma (Renuvion)

J-Plasma (also known as Renuvion) is another effective skin-tightening technology that can be used after PAL for cases where there is moderate to severe skin laxity. The RF energy from J-Plasma induces collagen production to improve skin elasticity and firmness, ensuring a smoother post-procedure result.

3. VASER

VASER can be used before PAL to emulsify dense fat. The ultrasound energy from VASER breaks down the fat, making it easier to remove with PAL. This pairing is especially helpful in fibrous fat areas, such as the male chest or upper back.

Thus, MicroAire PAL is a versatile and surgeon-friendly liposuction technology that enables precise, high-volume fat removal while minimizing tissue trauma. It is especially suitable for body contouring, fat harvesting, and cases that require detailed work. When combined with complementary technologies like BodyTite or J-Plasma, PAL delivers comprehensive results—fat reduction with the added benefit of skin tightening.