VASER: Targeting Fat; Redefining Success

VASER, “is the safest and most versatile contouring technology on the market,” says Ali Tehrani, DO, a plastic surgeon in Apple Valley, CA. “It uses ultrasound technology to shake free the fat cells while maintaining the integrity of the adjacent connective tissues, nerves, and arteries.” In addition to reducing fat deposits, VASER also allows for contour correction. “It's great for contour correction in revision cases from laser liposuction or CoolSculpting where scar tissue has formed.”

The VASERlipo® System uses thin multi-ringed probes to deliver a minimal level of ultrasound energy to emulsify the fatty component of the tissue matrix. Specially designed atraumatic cannulas called VentX® cannulas are then used to remove the emulsified fluids while preserving the tissue matrix.

VASER is a versatile system, too, Dr. Tehrani notes. “Gynecomastia correction can be challenging because of the fibrous nature of the fat and glandular tissue. The VASER emulsifies the fat and makes contouring of the male chest easier.”

When it comes to fat, the issue isn't just removal. Rather, sometimes the aesthetic goal is re-distribution. “In today's practice of plastic surgery, fat grafting has become very popular and having viable fat for grafting is of upmost importance,” Dr. Tehrani observes. “The VASER maintains the integrity of the fat cells and makes them ideal for grafting.” This is not the case with other laser-assisted liposuction technologies, he adds. In addition, the results with VASER overall are better than with other systems, in Dr. Tehrani's experience.

“Another unique property of the VASER is that is allows us to target the superficial fat,” Dr. Tehrani says. “Therefore, we can perform High Definition Body Contouring where muscle definition and contour can be sculpted.”

Courtesy Ali Tehrani, DO

FAT ISN'T A FAD

Liposuction leads aesthetic surgical procedures. The top five cosmetic surgical procedures in 2016 were:
• Liposuction (414,335 procedures)
• Breast Augmentation (310,444 procedures)
• Tummy Tuck (181,540 procedures)
• Eyelid Surgery (173,883 procedures)
• Breast Lift (161,412 procedures)

Fat Transfer is hot. It was among the top cosmetic procedures in terms of growth from 2015 to 2016.
• Fat Transfer to the Breast (up 41%)
• Labiaplasty (up 23%)
• Buttock Lift (up 21%)
• Fat Transfer to the Face (up 17%)
• Breast Implant Removal, AKA explantation (up 13%)

—Data courtesy of American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Courtesy Ali Tehrani, DO

High Satisfaction

“The end result with VASER is extremely satisfying for both the patient and surgeon,” Dr. Tehrani maintains. Several factors contribute to the high satisfaction rates. “First, it allows more fat to be removed in a very efficient manner,” he says. “Liposuction is hard work, and over time wrist, elbow and shoulder pain will affect many surgeons. The VASER aids in reducing operator fatigue.” In fact, he says, using VASER has helped him improve his own wellness. “I was suffering from tennis elbow prior to acquiring the VASER secondary to my volume of liposuction cases. Since acquiring VASER all my symptoms have resolved,” he reports.

For patients, VASER results often exceed expectations, Dr. Tehrani says. “Patients are always shocked to see their results. VASER liposuction and specifically High Definition Liposuction highlights muscle anatomy and definition,” he explains. “It is the highest form of body sculpting and when we unveil the body to the patient it is truly remarkable to see their facial expressions.”

VASER in Practice

Key to optimal outcomes is selecting the right patient for treatment. “Patients must be healthy with a BMI less than 33, and they must demonstrate an active lifestyle,” Dr. Tehrani says. In other words, treatment isn't intended as a primary weight-loss intervention; rather it is intended to remove target fat deposits, debulk, and provide definition. “In general liposuction serves as an aid to target trouble areas,” he adds.

Dr. Tehrani has found that VASER is a good fit for his practice that has allowed him to not only reshape bodies, but also to reshape his practice. “VASER has allowed me to reinvent myself and produce very high quality results for my patients. It has helped make Apple Valley a center of excellence for advanced body contouring,” he says.

Demand for VASER is high. “We treat patients from all over the United States and Internationally. My practice has grown exponentially since we acquired the VASER.”

Smaller Waists, Bigger Opportunities

Patients are enthusiastic about VASER and that benefits Dr. Tehrani's practice. “My patient satisfaction scores have increased, and I am the most passionate I have ever been when it comes to body contouring,” he says. Now, Dr. Tehrani is educating peers on the device and the procedure. “I'm honored to serve as a trainer for VASER and share my knowledge and experience with other surgeons worldwide.”