That is unfortunate given the many benefits of LipoSelection. Since one of the questions we often get is “what is the difference between liposuction and liposelection?” we thought we would take this opportunity to explain it.

Liposuction and LipoSelection: What is the difference?

First, there really isn’t a specific difference between liposuction and liposelection per se. Simply put, LipoSelection is a type of liposuction. Liposuction refers to any procedure in which an instrument is placed under the skin to remove fat cells under a vacuum. This is easy to understand because the key information is right in the name: lipo refers to fat, and suction is, well, self-evident. Liposuction can be performed in a number of different ways, with or without fluid infusion (tumescent technique), for example. Over the years, plastic surgeons have discovered which approaches offer the best results for individual patients. The culmination of years of research and refinement in the field of liposuction is a technique and device known as LipoSelection.

As the name suggests, liposelection is a form of liposuction that allows plastic surgeons to precisely select and remove unwanted fat. Instead of relying solely on the power of the vacuum to rip out clumps of fat cells, the LipoSelection device contains a miniaturized (but powerful) ultrasound device. Ultrasonic energy is used to break down fat cells and liquefy fat so it can be more easily removed under vacuum. This is the main difference between LipoSelection and traditional liposuction.

How does LipoSelection work?

In many ways, LipoSelection works like traditional tumescent liposuction. The plastic surgeon infuses the treatment area with saline to help lift and separate the various layers of tissue. That simply means there is extra space for the ultrasound and liposuction probes to move around and operate. The infused saline also helps protect surrounding tissue (eg, muscles, fascia) from being damaged during the next step: ultrasound interruption. The small probe emits an ultrasonic vibration to break up the fat cells and cause them to lose their contents. The liquefied fat and cellular waste are then removed from the body. This important liquefaction step helps ensure that no clumps of fat remain in the treated area, which could leave visible bumps, bumps, or depressions in the skin.

Are LipoSelection and VASER different?

In a word: no. VASER stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance. This laborious acronym essentially describes the technology used by LipoSelection. In VASER, ultrasound energy breaks up the fat before it is removed by suction. In essence, LipoSelection is a form of VASER liposuction.

What matters are the results of Liposelection

When the patient asks “what is the difference between liposuction and liposelection?” they really want to know if Liposelection is better than traditional liposuction (it really is!). Liposelection is an excellent technique for removing large volumes of unwanted fat, for example from the abdomen or thighs (although it can be used on most body regions). However, the most important advantage is that LipoSelection can provide a better overall shape and smoother skin than traditional liposuction.