Sergio Vendetti, MD, DMD

Dr. Vendetti was very thoughtful and thorough throughout my whole process- from consult to post-op. I'm pretty new to any type of cosmetic procedures, and naturally, I find the whole thing pretty nerve wracking. However, Dr. Vendetti gave me all the info I needed and more to feel confident in making the leap into cosmetic surgery (it can be scary!) I was searching for an office that would put me at ease and that's definitely the vibe I got. Also the staff is attentive, nice and accommodating and that really matters since they are your first point of contact in office. I'm happy my double chin is gone and I gained back a little of the confidence I've lost over the years.

I can happily say I found a diamond in the rough. No longer will I question the aptitude of a plastic vs cosmetic surgeon. Dr. Vendetti and his team were phenomenal!
Back in 2018, I decided to bite the bullet and get liposuction. I've always had a more athletic build, and unfortunately, I received an unflattering accumulation of fat on my flanks that I inherited from my mother (who I'll bring up later). I also had fat pockets around the front of my hips and ribs (not pictured because I stupidly forgot to ask for those pics!) Though I never considered myself "fat," I really hated my shape and was ready to do something about it.
I researched and asked around for recommendations for providers to perform liposuction. I wanted someone who was meticulous, with lots of experience, and had a good bedside manner, as well as good pre/post care treatment team. In the end, I decided to go with Dr. Vendetti.
Yes, Dr. Vendetti is not a plastic surgeon- he is a cosmetic surgeon. He was open about that fact right away, and explained to me (which I validated later with research) that both types of surgeons are taught cosmetics, but plastic surgeons do additional schooling in reconstruction, etc. So, if you were looking for breast reconstruction, absolutely, choose the plastic surgeon! But for a simple, purely cosmetic procedure like liposuction, cosmetic surgeons are equally great. I suppose some could even be better at cosmetic procedures, as their training is solely in cosmetic surgery, so they could dive deeper into those concepts, if you think about it. But hey, everyone is different!
Dr. Vendetti told me about the extensive years of training he had, specifically in liposuction, which made me feel more comfortable. He really included me in the consult and throughout my experience, not once talking down to me. He explained why his protocol was the way it was, and brought up aspects to the surgery and overall body aesthetic that none of the other providers (including plastic surgeons) brought up in consult! I was blown away by this man's knowledge, yet complete grounded-ness. His team laid everything out beautifully, with complete candidness and depth of detail. I ended up canceling the consult I had scheduled elsewhere after my consult at Virginia Surgical Arts, and scheduled my procedure.
Overall, the procedure was not as bad as I (or rather, my anxiety) had anticipated it to be. The office basically shut down when I arrived and for the entire time I was there. Being the only provider in that office, you become the sole focus of Dr. Vendetti and the team. Further, being SmartLipo, I didn't need full anesthesia- only oral sedation! I really liked that aspect because I felt more "in control," and from a financial perspective, it saved a TON of money off the total cost! Before I knew it, the procedure was over, and the gals on his team was helping me with my compression garment.
Dr. Vendetti reiterated the full run down of what I could and could not do, as well the possible post-op complications and complications from not following the instructions given. According to the team, they often saw poor results and slow healing when patients didn't follow their instructions. I wanted the procedure so badly and for so long that I really didn't want to mess it up!
I was in my compression garment for 7 days, and was more than ready for it to go by Day #7! Side note to anyone looking into liposuction- Some of the surgeons I consulted said to wear the garment 10-14 days, some said 5-7 days, and one even said 2 days! I guess each provider has their own theory on that.
Both my husband and I saw my results immediately, though swelling stayed for maybe a week or two (I've forgotten at this point!). I stuck to the instructions given, and because of that, didn't even need any RF treatments in office to help with healing. Dr. Vendetti called and checked in a few hours after I got home from surgery, and he and his team would regularly check in with me over the phone or in office for my follow ups. They really seemed to care and treated me like family.
Speaking of family, remember my mother who I mentioned in the beginning? Well, she was so impressed with my results that she, at 60 years old, decided to get Smart Lipo for her stubborn flanks and hips too! She also saw Dr. Vendetti, who worked his magic AGAIN! She is now down 2 pants sizes, and enjoying wearing cute outfits again.
As for me, I am thrilled with my results. I have a more aesthetically appealing curve around my waist and hips. I fit differently in my clothes, and I really like it! I feel more confident and feminine. I would do it again in a heartbeat... not that I need to!
In terms of Dr. Vendetti and Virginia Surgical Arts, again, this office is a diamond in the rough. I will no longer question the aptitude of a plastic vs cosmetic surgeon- Dr. Vendetti proved this to me. He is the real deal, and I wouldn't trust anyone else- with either myself or my mother!