VASER^®LipoSelection

Is the LipoSelection procedure different than traditional liposuction?

VASER uses state-of-the-art ultrasound technology to reshape your body. It first liquefies and then removes fat from the body, which is why it provides such smooth, predictable results. Since it is more tissue selective than traditional liposuction, patients report low to minimal pain and low to minimal swelling and bruising.

What body areas can be treated with VASER?

Dr. O’Connell has successfully treated hundreds of patient areas including abdomens, thighs, knees, buttocks, hips, back, arms, male breasts, love handles, chin and neck areas.

How much fat can be taken?

There are limits to how much fatty tissue can be safely taken from the body. One way to get a good idea for your self is to stand and bend from the waist. The amount of "loose-hanging" fat you can easily grab above / below your waist will approximate what can be removed. VASER is not intended as a weight loss solution; the goal is to create a slimmer silhouette. You may not notice a significant amount of weight loss, but you should be pleased with your slimmer new shape.

What happens during the VASER LipoSelection procedure?

First, the area to be sculpted is filled with a special saline solution that helps numb the site and shrink the blood vessels (to minimize blood loss and reduce bruising). This solution wets and fills the area to be treated, making fat easier to break up with the VASER System's sound energy. Then a small grooved probe transmits sound energy (similar to that used for cataract removal in the eye) that breaks up fat on contact, while leaving other important tissues relatively intact. Finally, suction and massage of the sculpted site removes the emulsified fat quickly and easily. Due to its patented technology, only the LipoSelection procedure first emulsifies and then removes fat in this manner.

What is in the infusion fluid? Isn't lidocaine dangerous?

The saline solution includes diluted amounts of a blood constrictor [Epinephrine] to reduce bleeding and bruising and an anesthetic numbing agent [Lidocaine]. The percentage of lidocaine and the amount of fluid is carefully monitored and administered to avoid toxicity issues. If this is a serious concern of yours, you should definitely discuss it with the Sylvana staff before you make your decision.

Where is VASER performed?

We perform the procedure in a clean environment in a specially-equipped room at Sylvana’s clinic.

What is the advantage of general vs. local anesthesia? Office vs. hospital procedure?

Some people feel any surgery is upsetting. In a hospital, under general anesthesia, you are unaware of what is happening - you go to sleep and awaken post-operatively. Some patients find general anesthesia intimidating, and prefer to remain awake under local anesthesia - accompanied by sedation. Here at Sylvana we find patients enjoy the comfort of our office, and with medication, they can stay awake but relaxed and experience little discomfort.

What type of results can I expect?

Because the ultrasonic technology used with VASER specifically breaks up fatty tissue while leaving other important tissues relatively intact, the result is smooth contouring and a low incidence of complications such as prolonged swelling, loss of sensation or prolonged numbing, blood clots, bruising, blister-like spots called seromas and skin discoloration.

What is my anticipated recovery time?

This varies with the extensiveness of the procedure - the amount of fat removed, the number of sites treated, and so on. It is important that you establish realistic expectations through discussions with Dr. O’Connell.

What about future weight gain? Can fat migrate to other areas?

This is a common misperception. Following your VASER procedure, should you experience significant weight gain or loss, it will tend to be proportionately distributed over your entire body. Once you have fat removed, it is gone and, assuming a healthy lifestyle of proper diet and exercise, it will not return or migrate. However, because fat is necessary to a healthy body, some essential fat layers in any given site remain untreated. If you do gain a significant amount of weight, the remaining fatty tissue can expand. Normal aging changes also can be expected.

Will VASER LipoSelection eliminate my cellulite?

"Cellulite" is a term used to describe a specific look of fat in skin overlying certain areas of the body (often described as "orange peel" or "cottage cheese skin"). As we age, almost all of us develop some cellulite. There is currently no curative "fix" for cellulite.

How can I be certain VASER LipoSelection is right for me?

If you are frustrated by the resistance of certain body areas to diet and exercise, or to losing stubborn fat deposits, VASER could be your answer. Although there are limits to the amount of fat that can be removed, Sylvana’s staff can help you determine potential areas for sculpting, anticipated results, and the recovery process.

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