LipoSelection®, which was developed by VASER®, is a liposuction surgery procedure that breaks up fat prior to it being extracted from the body. Using a probe that emits ultrasound waves, the fat is broken up under the skin. Tubes are then used to pull the fat from the targeted area. Since the fat is emulsified and broken up into tiny pieces, it is usually easier to remove.
The LipoSelection® procedure begins with a local anesthetic topically applied to the area to be treated. The surgeon next injects a wet saline solution into the designated area to contract the blood vessels and further anesthetize it. The saline solution treatment is generally thought to diminish post-operative swelling and bruising as well.
This easy elimination process is generally believed to cause less pain and damage to the surrounding tissues, nerves and blood vessels than traditional liposuction methods. The trauma to the area is normally minimized. The healing time involved in the LipoSelection® method is typically faster than with traditional liposuction.
Proponents of the LipoSelection® technique claim the precision targeting of the method gives doctors the option to contour and shape particular problem areas, such as the inner thighs, arms, neck and chin. The LipoSelection® method is also reportedly effective in removing fat from areas traditionally treated by liposuction. These body areas include the hips, breasts, buttocks, back, knees and abdomen. Male breasts and love handles are also popular targets for liposuction surgery.
The risks associated with LipoSelection® typically are comparable to those connected to traditional liposuction surgery. Advocates of LipoSelection® maintain the method has few side effects. The risks of both liposuction methods include infection, allergic reactions to medications or anesthesia, and fat or blood clots that may cause death or serious illness if they travel to the lungs.
Both liposuction processes have sometimes resulted in excessive fluid loss or accumulation in different parts of the body. If a doctor applies too much wetting solution during the LipoSelection® technique, the excess liquid may collect in the lungs. An excess of lidocaine in the liposuction solution may result in the development of lidocaine toxicity.
The LipoSelection® probe, if improperly used, may damage the epidermis or deeper tissues. Damage to vital organs and dramatically decreased blood pressure have also been experienced by some patients of both methods. Friction burns from the instruments used in the procedure have been reported in both techniques as well.