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Vaser Ultrasonic Liposuction: A Closer Look

While traditional, tumescent liposuction has been the gold standard for fat removal for over 30 years, the procedure can be a little intimidating for some patients. Many of us have seen the videos of plastic surgeons suctioning fat with a "hose," and it doesn't look like a particularly appealing prospect. Not surprisingly then, when a new technique comes along that promises shorter recovery times, enhanced results, and less invasive treatment, it garners a lot of attention. Enter VASER® Ultrasonic Liposuction, the most popular brand name for an advanced new liposuction technique that many plastic surgeons now prefer over tumescent liposuction.

Deciding which liposuction technique is right for you requires plenty of consideration. Often, finding the right plastic surgeon is the most important factor. However, if you’ve tried diet and exercise, but just can’t seem to tone a particular area of the body, VASER Ultrasonic Liposuction, also known as Liposelection®, may be just right for you.

VASER Ultrasonic Liposuction was approved by the FDA in 2001, and has since gained traction as an in-demand alternative to traditional liposuction. Ultrasonic energy has been used for fat removal since the early ‘90s, but the most recent generation has significantly reduced the risk of burns and bruising over previous versions. There are also some advantages of VASER over other alternative technologies, such as SmartLipo, laser-assisted liposuction, and the injectable Lipodissolve. And, when compared to traditional liposuction, VASER’s patented technology significantly reduces recovery time, bruising and swelling. Of course, as with any surgical procedure, the experience, skill and training of the doctor you choose is one of the most important factors in attaining the look you want.

VASER Liposuction is a form of surgical fat removal which utilizes ultrasonic energy to emulsify fat cells and then remove them. While it may sound like “laser,” VASER actually stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance, and doesn’t utilize lasers at all. This technology makes fat removal much easier and reduces damage to surrounding tissue. It works by inserting a small tube, or cannula, about the size of an IV catheter, under the skin. It then emits ultrasonic energy, or high-frequency sound waves above the range of human hearing, which the doctor directs at the fat cells. Basically, this energy “shakes up” the cells, breaking down the cell walls and liquefying them. Because the fat cells are particularly susceptible to ultrasonic waves, the surrounding blood vessels, nerves, and muscle are left relatively unharmed. Next, the plastic surgeon manipulates another small tube to remove the emulsified fat through suction. There are a limited number of fat cells in the adult body, so the cells that are removed will never come back. The whole procedure usually takes about an hour and can be performed on nearly any area of the body. Since the fat is liquefied, removal is much easier than traditional liposuction, and doesn’t require the same forceful movements.

While you should always consult with a plastic surgeon before deciding on a procedure, VASER Liposelection is an excellent alternative to traditional liposuction. The ultrasonic energy greatly reduces damage to surrounding tissue and recovery time. Of course, it is still a significant surgical procedure, and you may need weeks or months to recover completely. It can be used on nearly any area of the body, such as the inner thighs, lower abdomen, love handles, stomach, arms and even sensitive areas like the chin and neck. It can also be combined with other methods, such as Lipodissolve and Smartlipo, for even more dramatic results.

It can be hard to choose a liposuction treatment, especially when new techniques and alternatives are constantly being developed and labeled as the “best.” The fact is that, as with any cosmetic surgical procedure, it can be more effective on one candidate than another, and any doctor will suggest diet and exercise as the key to sustaining any fat removal effort. A consultation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon is absolutely essential to getting results long term. Fortunately, we have many highly-qualified, board-certified plastic surgeons in our network, many of whom offer varying types of liposuction. Contact us today to schedule your private consultation with a board-certified surgeon near you.