VASERlipo Body Contouring

Quick Summary
VASERlipo Body Contouring
Procedure Length
45 min - 2 hours (depending upon extent of procedure)
Anesthesia
General or local with IV sedation
In/Outpatient
Outpatient
Risks
Pain, bleeding, infection, contour irregularities, blood clots
Recovery
Back to work 2-3 days. Normal activities 2-3 weeks
Side Effects
Temporary discomfort, swelling, bruising
Final Appearance
3-6 months
Duration of Results
Permanent unless significant weight changes
Average Cost
$2,500 to $5,500 per area

What is VASERlipo?

VASERlipo is an ultrasound-assisted liposuction treatment used by many plastic surgeons as a more effective fat-removal procedure. VASER, which stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance, is also commonly referred to as VASER Liposelection or High-Definition Liposuction.

How it works

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction treatments like VASER utilize ultrasonic energy to liquefy fat cells for surgical removal. Ultrasound-based liposuction techniques were first introduced in the 1980s. Dr. William W. Cimino developed the VASERlipo system in the late 90s. It has since become a popular method for ultrasound-assisted liposuction.

vs. traditional liposuction

Traditional liposuction uses a cannula to loosen the fatty tissue, while VASERlipo uses ultrasound energy. Some benefits of the VASERlipo method include:

  • Less swelling
  • Shorter recovery period
  • Slightly smaller incisions
  • Reduced side effects and risks
  • Performed using local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia
  • Allows for more precise fat removal (abdominal etching, defining the muscles, etc.)

Are you a candidate?

VASERlipo candidacy is similar to other liposuction procedures. It is not considered as a weight loss treatment. Rather, it is intended to remove fatty deposits from specific areas of the body, such as the hips, back, breasts and torso. You may be a good candidate if you are:

  • Healthy and have no major medical issues
  • Near your goal weight but have specific areas you wish to target for fat removal
  • Informed about the benefits and risks
  • Have good skin elasticity, which helps the body to adapt to its changing contours
  • Have realistic expectations

In general, patients with a higher BMI and/or a larger volume of unwanted fat are often better candidates for traditional liposuction.

VASERlipo procedure

VASERlipo is an outpatient surgical procedure that can be performed under local or general anesthesia.

First, the treatment area is first filled with a specialized saline solution that is designed to help minimize bruising associated with VASER. The solution shrinks blood vessels, which in turn minimizes blood loss.

Once this tumescent solution has been applied, small incisions are made and a probe inserted. Ultrasonic energy is transmitted via the probe to the target area, breaking down fat cells that are then suctioned from the body. Once completed, the probe is removed and the incisions closed.

The amount of time required to complete VASERlipo varies depending on the treatment location and the amount of fat being removed.

Recovery time

After VASERlipo, patients may experience some bruising, swelling or soreness however downtime is typically shorter than traditional liposuction procedures.

Most patients are advised to take 2-3 days off from work. The first 2-3 weeks patients should keep activity minimal to help with the healing process.

Patients may be asked to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and help the skin settle into its modified form.

When will you see results?

Although VASERlipo results can be seen immediately, it will take 3-6 months for the body to fully heal.

How long will your results last?

Results from your procedure will be permanent unless significant weight changes occur.

What does it cost?

On average, the cost of VASERlipo is between $2,500 and $5,500. However, this cost can fluctuate significantly depending on the surgeon performing the procedure, the location in which it’s performed, and the amount of fat being removed.

To get a more accurate quote, it’s recommended you speak with a board certified plastic surgeon.

EnhanceMyself.com relies on sources such as professional medical organizations, government agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals to write it’s articles. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, in-depth, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

*Medical Disclaimer: This website does not provide medical advice. Read more