The most sought-after cosmetic procedure of the past several decades has been the removal of fat through liposuction. Liposuction has evolved to include new techniques and equipment, but the main goal continues to be addressing fat that is resistant to diet and exercise.
What Is VASER® Liposuction?
The Procedure
VASERlipo® differs slightly from traditional liposuction. Traditional liposuction is performed as an outpatient procedure with general anesthesia for most cases. During traditional liposuction, the surgeon inserts a cannula, or small tube, attached to a vacuum instrument through a small incision in the skin. A pushing and pulling technique is then used to break up the fat tissue. The liquefied fat is suctioned out through the attached vacuum device with each stroke.
VASER® liposuction is also performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. With the use of ultrasound technology, VASERlipo® uses ultrasonic energy pulsing to gently break up the fat cells. The fat cells are then mixed with a solution and suctioned out through a small cannula. The smaller probes and cannula of this procedure result in less trauma to the surrounding tissues compared to traditional liposuction.
This technique is especially useful in larger areas because it allows for easier removal of fat. This device can remove fat from any area that traditional liposuction treats, such as:
- Back
- Arms
- Abdomen
- Buttock
- Chin
- Chest
- Flanks
Recovery
No matter which instrument or technique is used, liposuction is a relatively quick procedure. During the first two to three days following a traditional liposuction procedure, the patient will experience moderate discomfort that can be managed with pain medication. For one to two weeks, pain and discomfort may persist but should steadily decrease until the two- to five-week mark, at which time all pain and discomfort should be gone. Swelling and bruising are expected and should subside by six weeks post-op.
VASERlipo® is considered a low-impact procedure because it causes much less trauma than traditional methods, which shortens recovery time. Most patients who have VASERlipo® performed will return to normal activities within one or two days with little discomfort. In most patients, bruising and swelling will subside by week three after the procedure (traditional liposuction often takes six weeks).
Results
While results of the two procedures are similar, surgeons tend to see a smoother surface and skin contour with VASERlipo® compared to traditional liposuction. This is due to the ultrasound and heating ability of the VASER® device, which results in some additional tightening of the skin.
For more information or to determine if you are a good candidate for VASERlipo®, contact the office of Imagos Institute of Plastic Surgery at (305) 596-2228. Dr. Onelio Garcia has been performing VASERlipo® for over 15 years, and he also conducts national and international lectures to board-certified plastic surgeons. Dr. Onelio Garcia offers you his expert service with this procedure.