What is the main difference between a power assisted liposuction and vaser liposuction? Are the risks different?

Question

I am trying to get my stomach and flanks done. My provider wants to do power assisted lipo over vaser for that area. Is the recovery time different and other post-op risks? I am concerned about recovery, pain, and what is more effective, and less traumatic

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

For now there are few options when it comes to liposuction:  Traditional, Power Assisted, Laser (Smart Lipo), Vaser.  Power assisted liposuction is when the liposuction cannula is connected to a device that oscillates the cannula at a very rapid rate.  It decreases the surgeon fatigue because the surgeon doesnt have to move his arm as much.  The Vaser is an ultrasound device device that is inserted prior to performing the traditional or power assisted liposuction.  The Vaser essentially breaks up the fat again making it easier to remove the fat.  It does help to contract the skin somewhat.What I would focus on is not what your surgeon uses but your surgeon him/her self.  It is not the device but the operator of the device that matters.Hope that helps.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi makethat701,

Your question about the differences between Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL) and VASER Liposuction is quite insightful, especially when considering options for your stomach and flanks.

Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL): This technique utilizes a device that makes the cannula vibrate or rotate, helping to break up fat cells more gently. This vibration allows for more efficient fat removal, often with less physical effort from the surgeon. PAL can be particularly effective in areas with denser fat or for larger volume liposuction.

VASER Liposuction: VASER stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance. This technology uses ultrasonic waves to liquefy the fat before its removal. It's particularly known for its precision and is often used for more detailed body contouring. VASER can be more effective in treating areas with fibrous tissue and is excellent for defining and sculpting.

Risks and Recovery: Both techniques are generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. The risks are similar for both and can include bruising, swelling, and discomfort. In terms of recovery, many patients find that the recovery from VASER Liposuction can be slightly more comfortable due to the liquefaction of the fat, which can result in less trauma to the treated area. However, recovery experiences can vary greatly from person to person.

Effectiveness and Trauma: Both PAL and VASER are effective techniques, but they have different strengths. PAL is efficient for removing larger volumes of fat, while VASER offers greater precision for body contouring. The choice between these methods often depends on the specific goals of the procedure and the characteristics of the fat and tissues in the area being treated.

It's important to discuss your concerns about recovery, pain, and effectiveness with your provider. They can offer more personalized advice based on your body type, the condition of your skin and fat, and your aesthetic goals.

Sincerely,

Dr. J. Timothy Katzen

George Marosan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. In the two previous answers to your post, one is correct and the other one is misinformation. I use the VASER with all my body sculpting procedures to free up the fat from the very fibrous areas and also in secondary cases (the patient had lipo by someone else, before). It also helps tighten the skin. I use the Power X to extract most of the fat. This is similar to the PAL (power assist lipo). The first creates rotation of the cannula, the later causes fast back and forth movement. The end results are the same in the well trained surgeon's hands. Myths: 1. the skin poke holes are 1cm with the VASER and a skin port (hard plastic sleeve) is used to prevent friction and or heat burn of the skin hole. With traditional lipo, no skin protection is used and often you will see poor healing from the repeated friction burns at the skin hole edge. 2. the skin holes, I place in stealth locations, so no sign that my patients had surgery. 3. VASER lipo can be done under tumescent local anesthesia for smaller areas (arms, neck, thighs, etc.) or under intravenous sedation if I do VASER Hi Def Lipo 360 degrees. Some surgeons use general anesthesia for these procedures. The risks for this type of surgery is dependent on the surgeon's training, experience and skill and not related to the tools he/she uses. Bad results happen when surgeons believe that the tool will do the surgery for them, regardless of their experience or training.See a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in advanced body sculpting techniques for an in person consultation/evaluation. Good luck.See the enclosed web reference.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Power assisted liposuction (PAL) is such a great way of getting liposuction and can power through tough fibrous tissue which the vaser can't touch.  Also vaser has bigger holes so larger scars and can cause some nerve damage or puckering but not as much complications as laser lipo causes..  Stick with your PAL lipo doc. Recovery is fast and easy , especially if done under tumescent local rather than general.

What is the main difference between a power assisted liposuction and vaser liposuction? Are the risks different?

Answers (4)

Answer: PAL lipo trumps Vaser lipo every time.

Answer: PAL lipo trumps Vaser lipo every time.

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Everything you need to know about Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)

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What is the main difference between a power assisted liposuction and vaser liposuction? Are the risks different?

Answers (4)

Answer: PAL lipo trumps Vaser lipo every time.

Answer: PAL lipo trumps Vaser lipo every time.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)

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