BMI over 40 due to subcutaneous fat. Would Vaser work for me?

Question

Thinking about having VASER lipo,and I have researched the procedure(risks and benefits).I am obese,BMI 40.5.After being tested, I was informed that my fat is mostly subcutaneous.I played rugby for 4 of years then broke my leg and gained weight.Thinking about lipo to get my body to what it used to be.Would it work for me since most of my fat(belly,thighs,buttocks)is subcutaneous?My weight has always been between 210-260lbs,so I am not looking to loose a lot of weight since my build is also bulky

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Vaser liposuction, also known as Vaser #lipo, LipoSelection or Liposuction, is an advanced body #contouring procedure that selectively removes unwanted body fat. An alternative to the harsh techniques of traditional liposuction, #Vaser lipo uses state-of-the-art ultrasound technology designed to gently #reshape your body. There are three types of #Vaser Lipo. Each benefit patients differently depending on their needs. 
An ideal  #candidate for Vaser Liposuction is a person in good health who seeks a minimally invasive way to remove stubborn fat with less downtime than traditional #liposuction.  Vaser is ideal for those seeking improved definition of muscles and contouring. Those who seek increased sculpting of are ideal vaser lipo candidates.
Vaser liposuction is NOT a method of #weight loss or an alternative to diet and exercise. It does not affect one's metabolism. It is usually recommended that patients who have recently experienced weight loss and massive weight loss (#MWL) remain consistent at their weight for at least six to twelve months prior any cosmetic surgery. Such will better ensure longer lasting results of the procedure without risking the fluctuation and stretching of the skin tissue. 
It is usually recommended that patients who have recently experienced weight loss and massive weight loss (#MWL) remain consistent at their weight for at least six to twelve months prior any cosmetic surgery. Such will better ensure longer lasting results of the procedure without risking the fluctuation and stretching of the skin tissue.

Joel B. Singer, MD · Answer

At our practice, we treat a variety of different BMI's including patients whose BMI is slightly over 40. You may be a good candidate. Here are some factors that effect whether you are a good candidate:These are important factors that we use to determine if you are a good candidate for laser liposuction:1) Skin Elasticity: Multiple pregnancies and weight fluctuations can cause the skin to lose some of its elasticity (springs in the skin). Loose skin will see some improvement from the laser component of the laser liposuction, but it can’t offset a significant amount of looseness. If you have loose skin, you may want to consider a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) or a mini tummy tuck2) BMI: Patients who have a BMI of larger than 35 may not be great candidates for liposuction. At our practice American Lipo Centers, we will sometimes perform liposuction in some of our offices on patients with BMI’s that are higher, but this depends on the surgeon’s preferences and the patient’s skin tone; If you have a BMI larger than 35, you may want to consider loosing some weight and then doing liposuction3) Patient’s Expectations after the Surgery: If you want to lose a half or full dress size or one or two inches, we can usually achieve this; However, if you want to go from a size 14 dress size to an 8, this is probably not possible.4) Medical Problems: if you have serious medical problems (Uncontrolled Diabetes, Hepatitis, severe heart conditions, etc.) then you may need a hospital setting to do your liposuction or you may want to not do the procedure at all.

John A. Millard, MD, FACS · Answer

Good question!  It is generally not recommended to have any type of liposuction ,including VASER liposuction if your BMI is greater than 35.  The complication rate goes way up for many things, and include such risks as blood clots, infection, pulmonary issues, and even healing issues from your liposuction.  If you had come to my practice I would have referred you to a nutrition and diet counselor.  I've had great success with this, having many patients return after successful weight loss and have there liposuction/VASER procedure!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Typically, liposuction works ideally for patients with thick layers of subcutaneous fat.While many plastic surgeons do not see liposuction as a good treatment option for high BMI patients, I tend to differ.What makes someone a good candidate for liposuction has less to do with BMI and more to do with body fat distribution.If the majority of your fat is subcutaneous and not intra-abdominal, then you may be a very good candidate for liposuction regardless of which technique is used.The skill, experience and background of your surgeon is more important than whichever technique or equipment is used.I suggest having a consultation with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.Best of luck,Mats Hagstrom, M.D.

BMI over 40 due to subcutaneous fat. Would Vaser work for me?

Answers (4)

Answer: Subcutaneous fat liposuction and high BMI

Answer: Subcutaneous fat liposuction and high BMI

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BMI over 40 due to subcutaneous fat. Would Vaser work for me?

Answers (4)

Answer: Subcutaneous fat liposuction and high BMI

Answer: Subcutaneous fat liposuction and high BMI

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Vaser Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.