VASER liposuction

VASER liposuction is an ultrasound-assisted liposuction technique. Ultrasound energy is used to break down and liquefy fat cells before they are extracted, which allows more precise targeting of fat deposits than standard suction alone.

It is one of four liposuction techniques used at Me Clinic, alongside tumescent liposuction, laser lipolysis and power-assisted liposuction.

How VASER differs from standard liposuction

In tumescent liposuction - the technique Me Clinic uses most commonly - a dilute local anaesthetic and adrenaline solution is infused into the area, and fat is then drawn out through a cannula attached to a suction device.

In VASER liposuction, ultrasound energy is applied first. The ultrasonic energy breaks the walls of the fat cells and liquefies the fat, which is then suctioned out. Because the fat is emulsified before extraction, it can be removed with more precision, which makes the technique useful where fine contouring is the goal rather than bulk volume reduction.

Which technique suits you depends on the area being treated, the volume of fat, your skin quality and what you are trying to achieve. Your surgeon will discuss the options at consultation - the choice is a clinical one, not a menu selection.

Areas that can be treated

As with liposuction generally, VASER can be applied to:

Outcomes vary depending on individual anatomy, skin quality and the area treated. Individual results may vary.

What liposuction is and is not

Liposuction removes localised fat deposits that have not responded to diet and exercise. It is not a weight loss procedure, and it is not a treatment for obesity. It is generally appropriate for people in good health who are within about 30 percent of their ideal body weight.

It also removes fat, not skin. Where loose skin is the concern, a skin-removing procedure such as abdominoplasty, brachioplasty or a thigh lift is the relevant option.

Suitability

Liposuction is performed on people of varying age, sex, size and build. A good candidate is in good general health, at a stable weight, and has realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve.

Fat distribution is strongly influenced by genetics, which is why some areas persist despite consistent diet and exercise. Smokers have an increased risk of complications from any surgery.

Whether VASER specifically is appropriate for you is determined at consultation.

What the procedure involves

The procedure is performed under local or general anaesthesia depending on the volume of fat and the number of areas. A small incision is made in a discreet location, ultrasound energy is applied to the fat, and the liquefied fat is then suctioned out through a cannula. The incision is closed and you are fitted with compression garments.

Major surgery is performed under general anaesthesia at an accredited private hospital. Most liposuction cases are same-day procedures. See local or general anaesthesia.

Costs

Surgeon's fees are $4,000 to $8,000 for one area, $9,000 to $15,000 for two areas, and $15,000 to $20,000+ for three. By area: chin and neck around $5,000, abdomen around $9,000, inner and outer thighs around $10,000.

Hospital, theatre and anaesthetist fees are additional; anaesthetist fees range from $800 to $1,200 per hour where a general anaesthetic is used. As at September 2024 and including GST, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is $350.

See liposuction costs for the full breakdown.

Recovery

You need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours where a general anaesthetic is used.
Compression garments are worn to reduce swelling and assist recovery. How long depends on the amount of fat removed and the area treated.
Avoid exercise for the first two weeks; gentle walking is encouraged.
Most people return to work after two to three weeks and to their usual exercise routine by around six weeks.
Domestic flights are usually fine at around two weeks; wait six to eight weeks for international flights and before swimming.

Swelling and inflammation can be expected for roughly one month. Most patients are seen at seven to ten days, then at six to eight weeks, three months, six months and twelve months.

Risks and complications

All surgical procedures carry risks and potential complications, including infection, bruising, swelling, pain, scarring, bleeding and haematoma, seroma, contour irregularity, changes in sensation from nerve damage, anaesthesia complications and blood clots.

Liposuction specifically can be traumatic for internal organs, and visceral perforation, while uncommon, is a recognised risk. Ultrasound-assisted techniques additionally carry a risk of thermal injury to the skin or surrounding tissue.

Risks are discussed with you in detail during the consultation process, and you are given written information to take home. Please read our information on the risks and complications of cosmetic surgery before proceeding.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Referral and cooling-off period

Since 1 July 2023, all patients are required to have a GP referral before seeing a plastic surgeon or doctor about cosmetic surgery. For any cosmetic surgery there is a compulsory one-week cooling-off period after your second consultation before surgery can be booked.

See liposuction, liposuction costs, or all body procedures.