I want to get liposuction and want to know what the difference is between SAFElipo and Vaser lipo?

Question

Does one have more benefits or potential complications than the other?

Staci Hix-Hernandez, MD, FACS · Answer

In essence both are done very similar - the largest exception is that VASER liposuction uses ultrasonic energy to break up the fat (emulsifying the fat) making it easier to remove through smaller cannulas.
SAFElipo is a three step procedure
S: separation of the fat.  In this method it is done with mechanical energy ( surgeon breaks it up with a       specialized cannula)
A: aspiration or removal of the fat
FE: fat equalization.  The remaining fat cells are equalized in the region of liposuction, decreasing the risk of lumpy bumpy areas and stimulating skin retraction.

Both methods can yield excellent cosmetic results.  I recommend an in depth discussion with your surgeon regarding their preferences and why.
Good Luck and best wishes.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cankles001,
generally speaking, liposuction results depend more on surgeon's abilities than the type of liposuction. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ken Smart, MD · Answer

Very good question. Vaser is a form of ultrasonic liposuction.  After the fat is tumesced with saline and epinephrine, a probe is inserted into the subcutaneous fat that emits ultrasonic waves which disrupt the fat cells making it easier to remove with suction.  Think of grapes being shaken off a cluster and this is analogous to what happens to the fat cells.  It can also help break up scar tissue.  This results in improved efficiency during the suction process.  The ultrasound does not damage blood vessels or nerves.  SAFE is an acronym for separation, aspiration, fat equalization.  After the fat is tumesced, just like with Vaser, the fat is separated.  A special type of suction cannula with an exploded tip is inserted into the fat.  Power assisted liposuction (PAL) is utilized.  The cannula vibrates(with suction off) separating or breaking up the fat.  Next the fat is aspirated, then equalized smoothing the area.  I have extensive experience with both and find the separation of SAFE Lipo to be analogous to the ultrasound of Vaser.  I actually prefer SAFE Lipo now because there is no heat produced as in Vaser lipo.  All of the possible liposuction complications are the same with the two, except there is no chance of thermal injury to the skin with SAFE Lipo as it does not utilize an energy source like ultrasound.  In my opinion it is much more important WHO does your lipo vs WHAT type of liposuction is used.  I hope this helps in your decision making process.Dr. Smart

Trent D. Douglas, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question - it is a great one.  SAFELipo is a technique whereas Vaser is a technology.  Ultimately the results are based on the surgeon's expertise, the area/s being treated, and the amount of fat.  In my practice, we favor the SAFELipo technique since it does not introduce the heat variable and has less tendency to produce contour abnormalities.  The SAFELipo technique is a proven method to provide consistent and reproducible results without the "laser" gimmicks of some other technologies.  Best wishes on a great result.

Christopher Chui, MBBS, MRCS, FAMS (Plas Surg) · Answer

Thank you for your question.
VASER uses ultrasound energy to liquefy the fat prior to sucking it out. The potential risk of this is a burn injury due to the heat produced.
SAFElipo uses special cannulas to break up the fat particles. This allows the fat to be removed more easily as well as smoothening out contour irregularities.
VASER is typically used in hi-definition procedures, but SAFElipo can also be used to enhance your anatomical features.
Hope this helps.

Paul N. Afrooz, MD · Answer

Vaser lipo uses ultrasonic energy to break up fat.  There are some benefits to this including making it easier for the surgeon because the energy helps to break up the fat.  SAFE lipo can be performed in a way that also makes it easier on the surgeon.  One of the drawbacks with using energy modalities such as ultrasound with Vaser is that it can cause scarring of the skin and irregularities if it is not performed properly.  Both methods are otherwise very effective and if done properly can achieve excellent results.

Eric Desman, MD · Answer

Vaser liposuction is a technique that uses ultrasound to break up fat cells and then the disrupted fat gets suctioned out during the procedure. In addition, the heat generated from the ultrasonic waves is supposed to help tighten the skin after the procedure.

In contrast, SAFEELipo breaks up the fat mechanically, sucks out the fat, and then essentially does internal fat grafting in the Fat Equalization phase to even out the results.

Both techniques work, and both techniques have strong proponents. SAFE Lipo was actually developed to help take care of poor outcomes from Vaser and laser liposuction.  As important as the technology/technique is the quallity of the surgeon weilding the instruments. There are many fine physicians who get excellent results with either technique. You should look for plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. There are other "boards", but the American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only ACGME board devoted to plastic surgery.

Pravin Reddy, MD · Answer

SAFE (Separation Aspiration Fat Equalization) is a technique that requires no special equipment other than a basket tip cannula.  It is a technique applied towards the end of liposuction to reduce the chance of contour irregularities or to correct contour irregularity from previous lipo.VASER is a form of liposuction requiring specialized equipment and uses ultrasound energy to disrupt fat cells which may then be evacuated with lipo.One may use SAFE lip at the end of a VASER case if there is a contour irregularity that needs to be improved.  So one is a specialized form of liposuction (VASER) and the other is a technique applied within all forms of liposuction.  Some may be using the term SAFE lipo as a marketing term and it is important to understand the difference.

Jeffrey Claiborne, MD · Answer

Excellent question. Vaser uses ultrasound energy to help destroy the fat and it makes it easier for the surgeon. But, Vaser also heats up nerves, blood vessels and skin and induces more scarring. For this reason, Vaser has a deformity rate of 5-30%.
SAFELipo is a technique and only plastic surgeons can become certified providers (anyone can buy a VAser machine and offer Vaser). It liquifies the fat to make removal safer and leave a natural, smooth result. SAFELipo has the lowest published deformity rate. For this reason, I only perform SAFELipo. In my opinion, SAFELipo is far superior to any other liposuction option.

I want to get liposuction and want to know what the difference is between SAFElipo and Vaser lipo?

Answers (9)

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