Demand for fat removal, cellulite reduction, and body contouring treatments have grown exponentially in recent years and so too has the multitude of treatments available to treat them.  For the average consumer, finding the appropriate treatment represents a big  challenge.

Some of the newer technologies that have made their way onto the scene utilize radiofrequency, deep dermal tissue heating, laser-assisted liposuction, injections of fat dissolving substances, tissue massage, or a combination of these modalities. 

One service that is obtaining renewed interest is VaserLipo System and Vaser HD (Vaser High Def) by Sound Surgical Technologies.  VASER is an acronym for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance.  With the first generation being introduced in March 2001, Sound Surgical Technologies received FDA approval in September 2002 for their third generation system for body contouring with sound waves. 

Unlike traditional fat removal and body contouring treatments, VaserLipo utilizes ultrasonic energy (sound waves), not laser energy, to break apart fat particles to emulsify the fat for easier removal by traditional methods. The key component of this method is the ability to emulsify the fat prior to removal which results in decreased aspiration/suction time.  One VaserLipo practitioner likened this ultrasonic technology to a tuning fork placed on a soap bubble. 

Those that promote VaserLipo claim that the body sculpting and fat reduction capability is superior to other systems because of the selectivity of the fat tissue being targeted (selective emulsifying) combined with improved fluid management, results in less bruising, less post-procedure swelling, and overall less pain with improved recovery.

Many VaserLipo users combine technologies for improved outcomes.  For example, practitioners will utilize VaserLipo for larger areas of fat debulking, followed by SmartLipo (laser-assisted liposuction) for smaller areas.  Like most modalities, VaserLipo is marketed for those patients that are concerned with areas of fat deposits that do not respond to diet changes and exercise. Therefore, most areas of the body are treatable with VaserLipo.

VaserLipo and Vaser HD  are not without valid concerns.  Some practitioners remember the complications from the older generation system that lacked consistent control over the heating of the tissue.  Although most acknowledge that the treatments work, some are concerned over complication rates.  Consistent with the “gold standard” of traditional liposuction, VaserLipo still requires heat, motion, and suction with the only different variable being the ultrasonic component for emulsification of the fat particles.

Despite which side of the fence one sits on when it comes to Vaser technology, all will agree that any fat reduction or body sculpting procedure relies heavily on technique and experience.  Equally important is whether or not the patient is an appropriate candidate for the procedure.  These treatments are not a substitute for a weight loss program and should never replace the benefits of weight loss through diet and exercise.   

Although we do not offer liposuction treatments at Celibre Medical we are committed to providing our patients with the best information possible to make informed decisions about their cosmetic treatments.

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer