Letty's Liposuction Directory

Vaser Liposuction

Author: Letty's Staff Writer

'Vaser' sounds a little like something Darth Vader from Star Wars would use on a regular basis.

It's a weird word – I know – but what does it mean to you.

This article discusses the pros and cons of this odd-sounding liposuction technique. The idea is to leave no stone un-turned.

Our aim is to give you actionable information that you can use to make excellent decisions about your health and appearance.

Let's get started.

What is Vaser Liposuction?

Vaser is liposuction technology that selectively liquefies adipose (fat) tissue.

This is done using an ultrasonic device which converts wall-socket voltage into high frequency sound waves and mechanical vibration. It's this vibrational energy that causes fat cells to fracture and spill their lipids into the surrounding space – while preserving underlying nerves, small blood vessels, and collagen.

How it works:

Step 1. First, small incisions are made and the area between the skin and muscle is pre-infused with a tumescent solution consisting of saline, lidocaine (anesthesia) and epinephrine (blood vessel constrictor). This fluid is injected into the treatment site until the skin is firm and swollen. Additional anesthesia may be used as well at the discretion of your surgeon.

Step 2. Next, a specialized handpiece containing the ultrasound mechanism is inserted through the incisions and moved back and forth – thus beginning the process of liquefying the fat. This is done until the desired body contour is achieved.

Step 3. In the final step – gentle suction is applied to remove cellular debris, released lipids, and anesthetizing fluid.

How is it different from conventional liposuction?

The major difference is of course the application of the ultrasonic energy.

It's what makes this surgery stand out from the standard procedure. When ultrasonic energy is added into the equation it – theoretically – offers benefits that aren't provided by the traditional surgery.

Benefits:

1. Ultrasound dissolves fat tissue often yielding a smoother contour in the final result.
2. Less bleeding during surgery.
3. Decreased surgical time.

Are there risks?...

There are certain risks common to most types of liposuction. Those risks include but aren't limited to the following:

1. Infection.
2. Post-surgical pain.
3. Post-surgery bruising and swelling.
4. Blood (and/or fat) clot formation.
5. Loss of sensation (numbness).
6. Fluid and electrolyte imbalance.
7. Uneven, or "odd-looking" final results.

The ultrasonic component also adds addition risk into the surgery – particularly if the equipment is not handled by a well-trained, experienced surgeon.

1. Burns from ultrasonic equipment

This makes sense in light of the fact that increased energy is used during surgery.

Am I a good candidate for the procedure?

Not everyone is a good candidate for Vaser liposuction...

Good candidates for surgery are generally athletic, eat a balanced diet, have good skin elasticity and are relatively close to the ideal weight for their height.

It is also very important for patients to be realistic regarding outcomes for their surgeries.

People suffering from any underlying body dysmorphic disorders – should NOT have plastic surgery of any kind. They are likely to be unhappy with the outcome no matter how acceptable it is.

In Conclusion:

Vaser technology takes liposuction to the next level.

It shortens the time and the blood loss during surgery, and has the potential to create a well-contoured body in the final product.

However, it isn't for everyone.

If you are someone who is well-built, healthy, and has great skin elasticity – but who also has a minor contouring issue here or there, then Vaser Liposuction may be for you.

Vaser Liposuction References:

• Guttman, Cheryl. "High definition lipo: 3D sculpting highlights muscle tone." Cosmetic Surgery Times. vol.9 (Nov-Dec 2006): 38(2). Expanded Academic ASAP (20 July 2009).

• Jayashree, Venkataram, and Venkataram Mysore. "Microcannular tumescent liposuction. (Review Article)." Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology. vol. 73.6 (Nov-Dec 2007): 377. Expanded Academic ASAP. Gale (20 July 2009).

• "There will be LESS Blood: New Study Recommends VASER® Lipo Over Traditional Liposuction to Significantly Limit Blood Loss During Body Sculpting Procedures." Medical Devices & Surgical Technology Week (31 Aug 2008): 3. General OneFile (16 July 2011).

• Heltzel, Melissa. "Ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty revisited: once fallen out of favor, UAL technique offers real benefits over traditional SAL, surgeon says." Cosmetic Surgery Times. Oct. 2004: 32. General OneFile (21 June 2011).