When traditional liposuction is performed, a small tube called a cannula is used to remove fat. Sometimes, it can be a challenge for surgeons to move the cannula effectively through fatty tissue. Because of this, Dr. Marwan Khalifeh uses the MicroAire Power Assisted Lipoplasty (PAL®) for high volume procedures and treatments involving fibrous fatty deposits. The cannula used in PAL® vibrates quickly in small movements in order to break up tough fat deposits. The fatty tissue is then easily removed. Dr. Khalifeh is also able to combine this method with other systems, such as laser liposuction or Vaser™ liposuction, so improved results.

A consultation with Dr. Khalifeh will help to tailor a treatment option that best suits your needs. Dr. Khalifeh has locations in both Chevy Chase, Maryland, and Frederick, Maryland, with easy access to all of Northern Virginia and metro Washington, D.C. areas.  In general, the best candidates for PAL® are men and women who have trouble sculpting specific areas of the body. PAL® offers a solution to stubborn fat buildup.

During the procedure, fat is suctioned out as it is broken up. Using this method, large amounts of fat may be removed in a relatively short amount of time. This allows for precision and excellent results. In addition, PAL® offers a safer treatment and patients recover more quickly. The method involves the use of an anesthetic tumescent fluid to numb the treatment area and help break up fatty tissue for smooth removal. Incisions are small and inconspicuous.

Surgery is performed at Dr. Khalifeh’s accredited ambulatory surgery center in Chevy Chase, Maryland, unless an overnight stay is required. In that case, surgery is performed at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. where Dr. Khalifeh holds privileges. Procedures last between one and three hours and are performed with either general or local anesthesia.

Recovery times range from two to five days. Patients may return to work in two to four days but strenuous activity, such as exercise, cannot be resumed until around two weeks after surgery. Stitches are removed one week after the procedure.

Though PAL® is a safer method of liposuction, as with all types of surgery, complications occasionally occur. These include bleeding, infection, and contour irregularity.

Call today to schedule an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Khalifeh: (301) 244-0148.