Water Temperature Changes in Ultrasonic Liposuction

In a letter to the editor, Dr. Rhoda S. Narins reported on an experiment to measure temperature changes in water when using an ultrasonic liposuction machine with different cannula sizes and power settings. After testing with a 4-mm cannula at power level 5 and a 5-mm cannula at power level 6 for durations of 1, 5, and 10 minutes, Dr. Narins found that there was no change in water temperature. This finding is relevant for dermatologic surgeons who do not have access to an ultrasonic liposuction machine and may be concerned about the potential for heat-related damage or effects during procedures.