Ultrasound waves are produced by a generator and are transmitted to the tip of a suction cannula or wand. When this tip contacts the fat cells they implode or explode inwards. This releases the fat. At the same time the fat is emulsified. This process of creating a hollow pocket in the fat layer beneath the skin is called cavitation. Cavitation is actually the formation and then the collapse of microscopic bubbles. The bubbles are produced by the intense vibrations at the tip of a special probe-cannula, often made of titanium.
This liquefied fat may be removed by low pressure suction which is less traumatic than traditional liposuction. However most surgeons follow ultrasonic liposuction with traditional liposuction. It also appears that during the process the skin may be tightened.
In the original European method of ultrasonic liposuction the fat was emulsified with an ultrasonic wand and then in a second step it was removed with suction. This two stage procedure was more time consuming. The method developed for use in the United States often uses a suction cannula which is also a wand or proble. In this way emulsification and suction proceed at the same time.