Are you having trouble deciding between VASER liposuction and UltraShape for reaching your body contouring goals and resolving your “problem areas” of stubborn fat? While both are safe and effective procedures that use ultrasound waves to slim and shape the body, the treatments are quite different from one other. It’s these differences that allow each procedure to cater to different patients and their unique needs.
Here’s a quick look at both treatment options so you can see how they can each get you the results you’re dreaming of. By directly comparing the two, you can decide which procedure is best for you.
What are VASER and UltraShape?
UltraShape is a treatment that utilizes ultrasound technology to target and destroy fat cells in the abdominal area. It’s a non-surgical procedure with very little downtime that is best for candidates with a BMI (body mass index) of less than 31.
VASER (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that also incorporates ultrasound waves to remove unwanted fat. But, like regular liposuction, it is surgical and requires the use of a small probe to directly remove the unwanted cells.
How Does Each Treatment Work?
VASER works by using ultrasound waves at a very low level to break up and eliminate targeted fat cells. The fat is then drawn out of the body using a suction tube. Small incisions are required for suctioning out the fat cells.
The treatment works for pretty much any part of the body where fat cells are plentiful, however, it works best on love handles, bra rolls, and areas of the chin, arms, neck, and thighs.
UltraShape is a completely non-invasive procedure. This means that anesthesia is not really necessary. Like VASER, the treatment uses ultrasound waves to target fat cells and destroy them, without harming adjacent tissues.
Unlike with VASER, the unwanted cells are not immediately eliminated from the body. Instead, the fat cells are transformed into triglycerides, which are processed by the liver and then released. It works best when it is used to remove fat from the abdominal area and the surrounding flanks.
What Can I Expect From Each Procedure?
Taking approximately one hour, UltraShape is a relatively quick procedure. It starts when the surgeon applies gel to the treatment area of the abdomen and fits the patient with a special belt. Next, a transducer is placed on the area, delivering pulsed ultrasonic energy to at least 1.5 centimeters below the skin’s surface. It is specifically focused directly on the cells that need to be eliminated. It stresses the fat cell membranes and consequently causes them to burst.
VASER can also be performed while the patient is awake, but local anesthesia is required for pain management as the procedure is surgical. A saline solution is also used to reduce bruising and to keep blood loss to a minimum. The solution allows fat deposits to break up more easily.
During VASER, the surgeon uses a probe to disperse the ultrasonic energy into the fat cells so they can be gently loosened and broken down. This is because the probe’s vibration doesn’t just break down the cells. It also blends them with fluid. An aspiration process withdraws the liquified fat easily and safely. Since the fat is destroyed without the use of a cannula, as is required in regular liposuction, there won’t be any trauma to the nearby tissues.
The procedure may take as little as one hour, or it can last several hours, depending on the size of the treatment area.
Pros and Cons of VASER Liposuction
VASER Liposuction uses both ultrasound energy and surgical techniques to remove excess and unwanted stubborn fat from the body. There are various benefits and drawbacks that patients need to understand before scheduling their procedure.
Benefits
- VASER liposuction is less invasive than traditional liposuction.
- It is an outpatient procedure. Patients can leave and rest up at home right after the surgery.
- The tissues surrounding the treated area do not suffer much damage.
- Surgery targets specific portions of the body with stubborn fat masses.
- Minimal bruising and bleeding. Less pain after the surgery.
- Helps patients quickly reach their body contouring goals.
Drawbacks
- Relatively long recovery period.
- Not suitable for patients with fibrous tissues in the body.
- Not a weight loss surgery. Patients should be at or near their goal weight.
Pros and Cons of UltraShape
UltraShape is a great solution for reducing stubborn abdominal fat. It requires no anesthesia, as it is a non-invasive procedure. Similar to VASER liposuction, there are some pros and cons of UltraShape.
Benefits
- A permanent solution for body contouring with proper maintenance. The fat cells are destroyed, though remaining cells can still expand.
- No incisions.
- No pain and very little downtime.
- Patients can exercise and work a day after the procedure.
Drawbacks
- Some people need 2 to 3 months of treatment or more to achieve good results.
- Can be expensive.
- Does not tighten loose skin after fat removal.
Are There Serious Side Effects or Associated Risks?
UtraShape does not cause any pain or major discomfort during or after the procedure. Most patients simply report a warm and tingly sensation, but nothing more. Like VASER liposuction, the process will not harm the surrounding muscles, nerves, or blood vessels. However, bruising may still occur, and rarely, blisters may form.
On the other hand, VASER may cause some minor discomfort in the areas where the tube enters the body, but anesthesia helps with that. After the treatment, some anesthesia remains in the tissues for a short time, alleviating most of the post-op pain. Some bruising can be expected, as well as minimal scarring at the site where the probe is inserted.
Downtime After Body Contouring
With UltraShape, it is highly likely that you will be able to resume your regular activities right after your treatment.
When it comes to VASER, recovery time is a bit longer, but still much shorter than the downtime required after regular liposuction. This is because VASER is a minimally invasive procedure. Just take it easy and avoid strenuous activities for approximately three weeks. After six weeks, you should be completely healed.
Both UltraShape and VASER are outpatient, or “walk-out” procedures. This means that you will be able to rest at home soon after the treatment and won’t need to stay overnight at a medical facility.
What About the Results?
With UltraShape, you may see results as soon as two weeks after the procedure. However, optimal results are achieved by getting a minimum of three treatments about two weeks apart. Your doctor may recommend further treatments if needed.
VASER results are immediate and can last for at least a few years. With a healthy diet and regular exercise, the results are semi-permanent. That said, another treatment may be needed in the distant future to maintain the original results.
How Long Does VASER Shape Last?
If you take care of your body, eat properly, and exercise, the effects of VASER liposuction can last for well over a year. Depending on your lifestyle choices, you can enjoy the effects of VASER shape for longer periods.
How Long Does UltraShape Last?
UltraShape helps destroy and permanently remove fat cells. However, if you do not follow a healthy lifestyle, remaining fat cells can expand and make you gain weight. Therefore, to maintain this procedure as a permanent solution, make sure to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
Which Is Right For You?
Each procedure has its own pros and cons, but some people may feel more comfortable with one or the other based on personal preference. If you want a non-surgical method of fighting fat, with little downtime, then UltraShape is going to be your best bet. However, if you want a faster and more permanent solution, you will most likely prefer VASER liposuction.
If you are interested in learning more about UltraShape or VASER, contact our team at Aesthetic Surgery Center to discuss the benefits and risks involved with both procedures. Our friendly staff will help you with all your questions and concerns. Call us today at (239)-420-8503 to set up an appointment with either our office in Naples or our Marco Island branch.