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Liposelection FAQ's in Richmond, Virginia

What is LipoSelection?

LipoSelection only by VASER combines patented technologies with advanced surgical techniques to sculpt the body and remove unwanted fat deposits. The LipoSelection procedure uses ultrasonic energy to break up fat while leaving surrounding tissue - such as nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue - relatively intact. Dr. Zemmel’s patients report highly satisfactory results and low to minimal pain.

Click here to view a graphical representation of how LipoSelection works. (This is a PDF File - Adobe Acrobat required)

Is the LipoSelection procedure different than traditional liposuction?

LipoSelection only by VASER is a new and very different way to precisely and efficiently remove unwanted fat. An alternative to the techniques of traditional liposuction, LipoSelection only by VASER uses state-of-the-art ultrasound technology to reshape your body.

Only the LipoSelection procedure uses the proprietary VASER System to first liquefy and then remove fat from the body, which is why it provides such smooth, predictable results. Since it is more tissue selective than traditional liposuction, patients report low to minimal pain and low to minimal swelling and bruising.

How does LipoSelection work?

High frequency sound energy emitted by the VASER System breaks up fat on contact while leaving surrounding tissues relatively intact. The fragmented fat flows into the wetting solution and is extracted through suction and massage. This process results in smooth, predictable outcomes.

What body areas can be treated with LipoSelection?

Dr. Zemmel has had great success in treating all of the following areas: abdomen, flanks, thighs, knees, buttocks, hips, back, arms, male breasts, love handles, chin and neck areas.

How much fat can be taken?

There are limits to how much fatty tissue can be safely taken from the body. Dr. Zemmel will perform a complete exam during your consultation and determine how much fatty tissue can safely be removed. Bear in mind that this procedure is not intended as a weight loss solution. The goal is to create a slimmer silhouette. You may not notice a significant amount of weight loss, but should be pleased with your slimmer, recontoured shape.

What happens during the LipoSelection procedure?

First, Dr. Zemmel fills the treatment area with a special saline solution that helps numb the site and shrink the blood vessels (to minimize blood loss and reduce bruising). This solution wets and fills the area to be treated, making fat easier to break up with the VASER System’s sound energy. Then a small probe transmits sound energy (similar to that used for cataract removal in the eye) that breaks up fat on contact, while leaving other important tissues relatively intact. Finally, suction and massage of the sculpted site removes the emulsified fat quickly.

Where is LipoSelection performed?

Your safety and comfort is Dr. Zemmel’s first concern. Dr. Zemmel performs all LipoSelection in his operating room at the Miami Beach Cosmetic and Plastic Center. The outpatient surgery suite has the distinction of full accreditation by the prestigious American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). 

This complete facility provides state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained staff for surgical assistance, nursing care, anesthesia and recovery.  Our suite is near two major medical centers for added assurance.  The finest possible medical and surgical support, privacy, warmth, and personal approach to care, bespeaks our professional philosophy.

What type of results can I expect?

The ultrasonic technology used for the LipoSelection procedure breaks up fatty tissue while leaving other important tissues relatively intact. As a result, Dr. Zemmel’s patients have reported smooth, natural contouring and very low rate of complications such as prolonged swelling, loss of sensation or prolonged numbing, blood clots, bruising, blister-like spots called seromas, and skin discoloration.

What type of anesthesia does Dr. Zemmel use for Liposelection?

Dr. Zemmel typically performs LipoSelection under deep sedation. This will allow you to sleep throughout the entire procedure. You will not be aware of the operation and you will be completely pain free. Dr. Zemmel used only highly qualified Anesthesia providers to guarantee your safety.

What’s in the infusion fluid?

A saline solution is injected to “loosen up” fatty tissue. This solution includes extremely diluted amounts of a blood constrictor [ Epinephrine ] to reduce bleeding and bruising and an anesthetic numbing agent [ Novacain ]. Dr. Zemmel prepares and administers the solution himself to avoid any toxicity issues. By using this solution the amount of bruising, swelling, and post-operative pain are dramatically reduced. The technique of using this solution is accepted as the Standard of Care for all Liposuction and Liposelection procedures.

What is my anticipated recovery time?

This varies with the extensiveness of the procedure. Factors which increase your recovery time are the amount of fat removed, the number of sites treated, and the total length of anesthesia. Most patients are up and around the house one to two days after surgery. Dr. Zemmel will give you detailed instructions on when to begin activity and when you may return to work. You will be given a patient instruction form before surgery, and Dr. Zemmel will prescribe pain medication.

What about future weight gain / fat migrating to other areas?

This is a common misperception. Following your LipoSelection procedure, if you experience weight gain or loss, it will be proportionately distributed over your entire body. Once you have fat removed, it is gone from the specific area forever. Assuming you maintain a healthy lifestyle of proper diet and exercise, it will not return or migrate. Fat is necessary component of the normal body and some fatty tissue is necessary for a normal metabolism. Some fatty tissue is necessary to give a smooth, even contour to the body. If you do gain a significant amount of weight, the remaining fatty tissue throughout the body will expand. Normal aging changes can also be expected.

Will LipoSelection only by VASER eliminate my cellulite?

“Cellulite” is a term used to describe a specific look of fat in skin overlying certain areas of the body (often described as “orange peel” or “cottage cheese skin”). As we age, almost all of us develop some cellulite. LipoSelection There is currently no curative “fix” for cellulite.

How can I be certain LipoSelection only by VASER is right for me?

If you are frustrated by the resistance of certain body areas to diet and exercise, LipoSelection only by VASER can provide a solution. If you are healthy and seeking a fast, low-pain* solution to losing stubborn fat deposits, the LipoSelection procedure could be your answer. Although there are limits to the amount of fat that can be removed, your doctor can assist you with your decision about potential areas for sculpting, anticipated results, and the recovery process.

How much does it cost? Why pay more?

As with other treatments, costs can vary among surgeons and depending upon the specific nature of the treatment (location of fat pocket, number of treatment sites, extensiveness of treatment, etc.). “Why pay more?” is a question only you can answer for yourself. After talking with a number of potential patients, we have found that most would readily pay a few hundred dollars more to obtain the benefits of the LipoSelection procedure.

May I speak with a patient(s) who has had the LipoSelection procedure?

We would be happy to facilitate that for you. Many of our patients are so pleased with the results of their LipoSelection procedure that they have volunteered to talk about their experience.

Do you think LipoSelection is right for you? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.