Microcannula liposuction is a technique invented by Dr. Jeffrey Klein, a practicing cosmetic surgeon in California, in the 1980s. It is a technique not taught in most institutions or academic centers, and is known and practiced by only a small percentage of physicians worldwide.
It is widely recognized as the safest form of liposuction, as it does not involve general anesthesia, and delivers the smoothest, most natural result, as it uses very small cannulas (instruments used to suck the fat).
Local anesthetic is placed in the area to be treated, which makes the area numb, and also expands the fat cells for easier removal. It also minimizes the post-operative bruising which is typically much more severe with traditional liposuction.
Since very small instruments are used, only small amounts of fat are able to be removed with each stroke of the surgeon. This involves more work from the physician, but a smoother, more natural result for the patient. In addition, less trauma to the patient is inflicted with the smaller instruments.