Vaser Assisted

VASER & Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction in Chicago, IL

For those looking at liposuction as an option who don’t necessarily want the traditional, invasive method, there’s VASER, which is ultrasound-assisted liposuction. This technique targets fat cells with ultrasound technology that breaks up the fat cells so they can be removed more easily with a small tube, or cannula.

Dr. Karol A. Gutowski offers this method for patients who want visible results after just one procedure. If you are looking for a Chicago VASER liposuction specialist or you just want to learn more about your options, we would be happy to schedule a consultation with you. We are proud to serve Chicago and the surrounding areas.

What Is VASER Liposuction?

VASER liposuction is an advanced form of body contouring that uses ultrasound energy to target and break down fat. Unlike traditional methods that rely only on manual disruption, VASER technology allows for more selective treatment of fat cells while leaving surrounding tissues, such as nerves and blood vessels, less affected. This is a good option for those who want more definition in areas like the abdomen, flanks, arms, or thighs. The technique can give smoother results and can help with sculpting in ways that standard liposuction may not achieve.

How VASER Works

1. Ultrasound Probes Emit Sound Waves

Small probes are inserted into the treatment area where they deliver ultrasound energy. These sound waves travel through the tissue, targeting fat cells specifically. The controlled vibration from the probes helps to loosen fat without significant damage to nearby structures.

2. Fat Is Emulsified

Once the ultrasound waves reach the fat, the cells begin to break apart. This process turns solid fat into a liquid-like form, known as emulsification. By liquefying fat before removal, VASER technology makes it easier to extract and can allow for greater precision in shaping the treated area.

3. Liquefied Fat Is Removed

After the fat has been emulsified, it is gently suctioned out through a thin cannula. Because the fat has already been broken down, removal requires less force compared to traditional techniques. This step completes the process, leaving behind a smoother contour and more refined definition.

How VASER Differs From Other Types of Liposuction

Traditional Liposuction

Liposuction in its standard form relies on physical force to break apart fat before suctioning it out. While it has been used for many years and can be effective for fat reduction, it may involve more tissue trauma, which can translate to more swelling or bruising afterward. Traditional methods are often less precise in sculpting fine details.

Laser-Assisted Liposuction

Laser liposuction uses focused laser energy to heat fat cells and make them easier to remove. The heat can also stimulate some collagen response in the skin. It may be a good option for patients who also want some skin tightening, though results vary depending on the treatment area and the patient’s skin quality.

Power-Assisted Liposuction

Power-assisted devices use a specialized cannula that rapidly vibrates to mechanically break up fat. This can make removal quicker and less physically demanding for the surgeon. The technique is often useful for larger areas or more fibrous tissue, though it does not offer the same level of precision for defining small contours.

Treatment Areas for VASER Liposuction

VASER can target both small and large areas of fat, allowing for contouring in places that benefit from refined shaping. The technique is versatile and can help define natural lines in areas where standard fat removal methods may be less precise.

• Stomach liposuction can address stubborn fat across the midsection and help create a more defined abdominal contour.
• Arm liposuction can reduce bulk in the upper arms and bring out a slimmer, more balanced appearance.
• Neck liposuction can refine the jawline by removing localized fat that softens facial definition.
• The back, flanks, thighs, and chest are also common treatment zones where patients often want improved proportion.

The Benefits of Choosing VASER Liposuction

• More Precise Body Sculpting: VASER technology allows fat to be broken down, which can help us shape specific areas with greater accuracy.
• Reduced Trauma: Traditional methods sometimes involve more disruption to surrounding tissues. VASER targets fat cells in a way that reduces strain on blood vessels and connective tissue, which can make the healing process smoother.
• Effective for Small and Large Fat Removal: Some patients want refinement in small spots, such as the chin, while others want broader fat reduction in the abdomen or thighs. VASER can adapt to either situation and is a versatile option across different body regions.
• Can Be Used for Fat Transfer Procedures: Fat removed with VASER is often of a quality suitable for transfer into other areas, such as the buttocks, breasts, or face.
• Smooth Contouring Results: Lumps or uneven spots can sometimes occur with older liposuction methods. VASER’s approach to liquefying fat before removal helps create a smoother contour and more even results across the treated zone.
• Suitable for Delicate or Fibrous Areas: Some areas of the body contain dense or fibrous fat that can be challenging to treat. VASER’s ultrasound energy can make these regions easier to sculpt while still maintaining a refined touch in delicate zones like the neck.
• Shorter Recovery: Because there is less trauma to nearby tissues, patients often experience a shorter recovery period. Swelling and discomfort can resolve sooner, allowing you to return to normal activities more quickly compared to traditional techniques.

The VASER Liposuction Process

Consultation and Preparation

The process begins with a detailed consultation where we review your goals and examine the areas you want treated. We discuss your health history and determine if VASER is the best approach for you. Clear instructions are provided regarding medications, supplements, and any lifestyle adjustments to make before the procedure.

Day of Treatment

On the day of your appointment, the area is marked to guide the sculpting process. Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia may be used depending on the size of the treatment zone and your comfort level. Small incisions are made so the VASER probes can deliver ultrasound energy to break down fat. Once the fat is emulsified, it is removed using a gentle suction method that distinguishes this technique from a traditional liposuction procedure.

Recovery Timeline

Recovery varies depending on the extent of treatment, though most people return to light activities within several days. Compression garments are usually recommended to support healing and help the body settle into its new contours. Bruising and swelling are common early on, but these effects steadily improve as the weeks pass. You can come for regular follow-up visits so we can monitor your progress and provide guidance for the smoothest outcome possible.

Recovery Tips

Wear Compression Garments

Compression garments help reduce swelling and support the body as it heals. Consistent use can encourage smoother contours and improve comfort during the early stages of liposuction recovery. The garments should fit snugly but not restrict circulation, and we will guide you on how long to wear them each day.

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration supports healing and helps the body flush out fluids after treatment. Drinking enough water can also reduce fatigue and improve circulation, both of which are important during recovery. Keep a water bottle nearby so you can maintain steady intake throughout the day.

Avoid Intense Exercise

Strenuous workouts place unnecessary stress on areas that are still healing. High-impact activities and heavy lifting should be postponed until we confirm it is safe to resume. Light activity is beneficial, but pushing too hard too soon can delay your progress.

Sleep With Treated Areas Elevated

Positioning matters while you sleep because it influences swelling and comfort. Elevating the treated zone on pillows can reduce pressure and make rest easier.

Incorporate Gentle Walking

Short walks promote circulation and can reduce the risk of stiffness during recovery. Gentle movement also supports lymphatic drainage, which helps minimize swelling. Walking should be introduced gradually, and frequency can increase as your comfort improves.

FAQs About VASER Liposuction

Is VASER Liposuction Permanent?

Fat cells that are removed with VASER do not grow back, so the changes you experience after this surgery are long-lasting. However, the remaining fat cells in the body can still enlarge with weight gain, so it is important to stay healthy and active by maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise. The treatment should be viewed as a way to enhance your shape, not as a substitute for healthy lifestyle habits. It is not to be used in place of weight loss, but is often performed after the patient has reached their ideal weight.

Am I a Good Candidate for VASER Liposuction?

Good candidates are typically at or near a stable weight but want to refine areas of fat that resist diet and exercise. People with good skin elasticity tend to experience the most natural-looking outcomes, since the skin can adapt more smoothly to new contours. If you are significantly overweight, have serious medical conditions, or do not have the right expectations about this surgery, you may not be the right candidate. A consultation allows us to review your health history, evaluate your body type, and discuss your goals to decide if VASER is right for you.

Does VASER Liposuction Tighten Skin?

VASER can stimulate some degree of skin contraction because the ultrasound energy promotes collagen activity. Results vary based on skin quality, age, and genetics, so it should not be relied upon as a replacement for skin tightening procedures. For those who wonder how to tighten loose skin after weight loss, options such as surgical lifts or radiofrequency-based treatments may be recommended alongside or after VASER.

How Much Fat Can Be Removed With VASER Liposuction?

The amount of fat removed depends on body type, health status, and safety guidelines. VASER can address both small pockets of fat and larger areas, but there are limits to how much can be safely taken out in one session. Removing too much can be too hard on the body, so the goal is to reduce fat strategically while maintaining balance and proportion.

Can VASER Lipo Be Combined With Other Procedures?

VASER can be paired with treatments such as fat transfer, tummy tucks, or body lifts. Combining procedures is sometimes beneficial because it can address both fat reduction and skin tightening in a single surgical plan. The best approach depends on your anatomy and goals, and we discuss these options during your consultation.

How Soon Will I See My VASER Lipo Results?

Some changes are noticeable right after treatment, but swelling can obscure the final outcome at first. Your body will gradually adjust as swelling resolves, and definition will become clearer with each passing week. You will see the full refined contour by three to six months, when VASER liposuction results have settled into place.

Will I Have Scars After Liposuction?

Small incisions are required to insert the probes and cannulas, so small scars are possible. They are typically placed in discreet locations, and with proper aftercare, they tend to fade and become less noticeable. Scar appearance varies based on skin type and healing response, and we provide instructions to help support the best cosmetic outcome.

About Dr. Karol A. Gutowski

Dr. Karol A. Gutowski is a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Chicago area who is nationally recognized for his expertise in aesthetic surgery of the face, breast, body, and skin. His work combines surgical precision with advanced nonsurgical treatments, offering patients a wide range of options for enhancement and rejuvenation. He is an award-winning surgeon whose research has been published in respected medical journals, and his insights have been featured in outlets such as The New York Times, CBS News, USA Today, and Fox News. With a reputation for innovation and patient-focused care, Dr. Gutowski provides trusted expertise to individuals throughout the greater Chicagoland area.

Schedule a Consultation to Learn About VASER Liposuction in Chicago, IL

VASER Lipo offers advanced fat reduction that can help refine body contours with smoother and more precise results. People seeking solutions for how to get rid of stubborn belly fat can benefit from the expertise of Dr. Karol A. Gutowski, who serves Chicago, IL. To learn more or schedule a consultation, call (847) 906-1527 or contact us through our online form.