Vaser stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance, which means that the procedure makes use of ultrasound technology in order to perform the liposuction procedure.

Vaser liposuction is an alternative technology to the traditional liposuction procedure. It is a body contouring procedure that targets the removal of unwanted body fat. It is essentially a procedure by which fat deposits beneath the skin are removed in order to improve the aesthetics and the overall appearance of the body.

How is Vaser liposuction different from traditional liposuction?

Vaser Liposuction is also known as LipoSelection which implies that it is more of a selective fat removal, unlike the traditional liposuction which works on total fat removal.

It focuses upon targeting the fat cells while still preserving the essential connecting tissues. This helps in attaining smoother results and a better and quicker healing process, as compared to the traditional liposuction surgery.

It is believed that Vaser liposuction is more effective in the treatment of densely fibrous areas such as the back, the post-tummy tuck abdomen, the breasts (male and female), and the areas which have been previously suctioned.

Fat cells removed during the procedure can often be harvested in order to be used for fat transfer in other areas of the body where they are more desirable. It is also a minimally invasive procedure, which means that there is less bleeding or scarring; this also implies that there is speedy recovery, as compared to the conventional liposuction procedure.

How does Vaser liposuction work?

Vaser liposuction uses ultrasound energy in order to melt fat. It is then removed through a thin tube called a cannula. This technique makes it easier to remove fat. It is especially helpful in areas with dense and large volumes of fat.  

How safe is Vaser liposuction?

Many procedures have been successfully carried out on patients around the world. The instruments for a Vaser liposuction procedure are much smaller and less invasive as compared to the conventional liposuction procedure. It also uses minimally invasive ultrasound technology so there is less damage caused to the body.

Older methods did not have the technology to liquefy fat before removing it from the body, which could cause damage to the veins and other delicate organs of the body. With Vaser liposuction, it is now possible to liquefy fat before its removal, which makes it possible to carry out the procedure without causing much harm to the body.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure can take about one to several hours to complete, depending upon the area and the number of areas to be taken in for treatment.

What is the average downtime?

Vaser liposuction is a less aggressive procedure, which means that there is a faster recovery time as compared to conventional liposuction. The surgery usually involves 12 hours of rest and two to three weeks of avoiding strenuous activities.

Is the procedure painful?

As Vaser liposuction is a low impact procedure, less pain is experienced compared to standard liposuction. Some of the applied local anaesthetic stays in the area which helps in minimising post-surgical pain in the treated area.

Is there a risk of bruising?

Vaser liposuction involves the use of a saline solution, so there is typically less bleeding and bruising. After the application of local anaesthetic, the surgeon fills the area to be treated with a saline wetting solution in order to numb the area and shrink blood vessels. This helps in minimising the risks of post-surgical swelling and bruising.

How long do the results take to appear?

Patients are able to see results right after the procedure but the best results start to appear after five to six weeks of the treatment.

What are the side effects of the procedure?

The potential risks from ultrasound energy may include burns. Some of the possible side effects may include bleeding, scarring, skin contour irregularities, nerve compressions, skin necrosis, seroma and fluid imbalance. These are not restrictive and some other complications or side effects may arise, depending on the individual.

These are some of the most frequently asked questions about the procedure. You should always meet a professional and highly qualified doctor to discuss the possible effects before committing to surgery.

Dr Ashish Dutta is a Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon in the UK and founder of Aesthetic Beauty Centre in London, Newcastle and Sunderland.