VASER Liposuction

The full form of VASER is the vibration amplification of sound energy at resonance. VASER meaning is a specialised form of ultrasound-assisted liposuction that breaks apart and liquefies fat cells from the deeper tissues. This makes them easier to remove during the treatment. 

In VASER liposuction procedures, fat cells are removed from various body areas to achieve the desired contouring and sculpting effects. The specific areas from which fat cells can be removed include:

1. Abdomen 

2. Flanks (love handles)

3. Thighs 

4. Arms 

5. Back 

6. Chin and neck 

7. Male chest (gynaecomastia)

8. Buttocks

VASER liposuction offers an effective solution for individuals seeking to target stubborn pockets of fat that resist diet and exercise. Those who could benefit from this procedure meet specific criteria:

1. Patients should be healthy without a history of smoking or bleeding conditions.

2. They should be close to their ideal weight. 

3. It is suitable for people looking to target specific areas of fat deposits rather than using it as a weight loss tool.

VASER liposuction is performed under general anaesthesia or conscious sedation. It takes about one to two hours to complete and involves the following steps: 

1. A solution containing saline and local anaesthetic is injected into the targeted area. This solution helps numb the area, minimise bleeding, and facilitate fat removal.

2. A small probe emitting ultrasound energy is inserted through a tiny incision to break up the fatty tissue. It liquefies fat and separates it from the other structures in the skin. 

3. The fat cells and saline solution are gently suctioned out of the body using a thin cannula (a hollow tube) attached to a suction device. 

4. The cannula is removed, and the incision is closed with stitches or medical glue. 

Patients undergoing VASER liposuction receive detailed instructions from their plastic surgeon to prepare for the procedure. Adhering to these guidelines before and on the day of surgery is essential to ensure a successful outcome. 

Before VASER Liposuction 

Before the procedure, patients meet their doctor to discuss aesthetic goals, assess their candidacy, and establish a personalised treatment plan. During this phase, thorough examinations are conducted to ensure the patient is ready for the surgery. 

On the Day of VASER Liposuction 

On the day of the procedure, patients arrive at the surgical facility prepared and informed. Photos are taken to compare VASER liposuction before and after results. One can expect the following before the final surgery: 

After the procedure, patients can expect bruising and swelling in the targeted areas. This can be managed by following the recovery guidelines in the hospital and at home. 

Recovery in the Hospital 

VASER liposuction is generally performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can return home on the same day. The following is what they can expect during the immediate post-procedure period in the hospital:

1. They are monitored in a recovery area to ensure there are no immediate complications, such as excessive bleeding or adverse reactions to anaesthesia.

2. Pain is generally mild and manageable. Patients are given pain relievers and instructions on managing discomfort at home.

At-home Recovery

Results after VASER may not be visible immediately. It may take three to six months for results to become clear as new layers of the skin begin to develop. During this time, it is important to follow any specific instructions from the doctor to ensure a smooth recovery: 

1. Keep the incision site clean and dry. Patients will receive sterilised cotton pads to dress the affected areas for 1-2 days. 

2. Pain after VASER liposuction is usually mild and can be managed with prescribed medications. 

3. Drinking lots of fluid helps flush anaesthesia from the body. 

4. Patients are advised to wear compression garments for 4-6 weeks. These garments help reduce swelling and support the healing areas. 

5. Individuals can resume work and normal activities within 2-3 days. 

6. Strenuous activities should be avoided for 3-4 weeks. 

First Follow-up Appointment 

Regular follow-up appointments after VASER liposuction are important to monitor the healing process. During the visit, the surgeon will check the incision sites for signs of infection or complications. They will also evaluate the swelling and bruising to ensure it subsides as expected.

VASER represents a significant advancement over earlier ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) technologies. It includes crucial improvements that enhance the safety and efficiency of the fat-removal process. The benefits of this procedure are as follows: 

1. Less operative time 

2. Precision

3. Greater emulsification of fat 

4. Better skin contraction 

5. Preserves surrounding blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue 

6. Reduced complications like pain and haematoma (collection of blood outside the blood vessel)

While VASER liposuction is considered safer and less invasive than traditional liposuction techniques, it still carries some risks. According to a study by Tran et al., 2022, the overall complication rate after the procedure was 4.6%. 8 The procedure can include the following risks: 

1. Bruising and bleeding 

2. Persistent swelling 

3. Numbness 

4. Skin burns 

5. Assymetry, hyperpigmentation, or skin irregularities 

Other complications after surgery may include pain at the surgical site, infection, and scarring. 

When to call a doctor?

After VASER liposuction, patients should monitor their recovery. Prompt communication with their doctor can prevent complications. The signs that require one to call their healthcare team are as follows: 

1. Fever above 100.4 F

2. Yellow or green discharge

3. Nausea or vomiting 

4. Dizziness 

5. Fatigue 

6. Shortness of breath

The VASER liposuction cost in India can vary widely depending on several factors. It generally starts from ₹ 40,000 with an average price of ₹ 70,000. The maximum expense is ₹ 1,00,000. 

Note: These prices are approximate. Please consult HexaHealth experts for accurate costs. 

Factors that influence the expenses of VASER include: 

1. Surgeon’s Experience: The expertise and reputation of the procedure specialist can impact the cost. Highly skilled surgeons often command higher fees.

2. Hospital Type: Private facilities are costlier than government centres. Moreover, super-speciality hospitals may have higher prices than small clinics due to better amenities. 

3. Location: Due to differences in cost of living, urban areas and metropolitan cities have higher prices for cosmetic surgery services than smaller regions. 

4. Additional Treatments: Combining VASER liposuction with other procedures, such as a tummy tuck or breast augmentation, will increase the total expenditure. 

5. Post-operative Care: Necessary aftercare, including compression garments and follow-up visits, can also contribute to the final bill. 

VASER liposuction offers a precise and effective solution for removing stubborn fat and sculpting the body with minimal downtime. It utilises advanced ultrasound technology to target fat cells while preserving surrounding tissues. 

At HexaHealth, we provide top-tier VASER services tailored to meet individual needs. Our team of expert surgeons ensures a safe and comfortable experience from consultation through recovery. We support you at every step, helping you understand the procedure, manage expectations, and achieve the best possible results.

Suggested Reads