Areas to Sculpt on the Body With VASER® Liposuction

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Dr. Eric Barker

March 27, 2022

Dr. Barker earned his medical degree at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, WI. He then completed his combined training in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Rush University Medical Center and John H. Stroger, Jr. (Cook County) Hospital in Chicago, IL. Dr. Barker was able to train under distinguished breast reconstructive surgeon Dr. Anuja Antony, and prestigious cosmetic surgeon Dr. John Q. Cook.

Traditional liposuction is a popular way to contour different areas of the body and reduce fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. VASER liposuction uses ultrasound waves to disrupt fat cells while keeping the subcutaneous framework in place, so they may be removed in a much less invasive manner as compared to traditional liposuction. This innovative body sculpting technology allows for a smoother contoured result and also provides skin tightening benefits as well.

Many areas can be addressed with VASER liposuction, and plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Barker has helped countless patients remove stubborn fat from the stomach, hips, waist, back, arms, thighs, knees, and chin. Each one presents its own unique benefits and results. Today, the professionals at Peak Plastic Surgery Center in Denver, CO take a close look at all potential treatment areas and will give an in-depth explanation to each patient so they can understand what to expect from this cutting-edge procedure.

How does VASER liposuction work?

VASER liposuction is a minimally invasive fat removal procedure that uses ultrasonic frequency energy to break up fat cells while maintaining the subcutaneous tissue framework. Because of this, the treatment is less traumatic to the surrounding tissues than traditional liposuction, which means patients appreciate the faster healing times and a much smoother and contoured result. The ultrasound technology also tightens mild to moderate loose skin that can occur after events like weight loss or childbirth.

Some benefits of VASER liposuction include:

  • Minimally invasive: less trauma to surrounding tissues

  • Faster healing times: return to work and other activities sooner

  • Less pain and bruising: due to the decreased local disruption to tissues, postoperative discomfort and bruising are significantly decreased

  • Tightens skin: improve the appearance of mild to moderate skin laxity

What areas can be treated with VASER liposuction?

Dr. Barker is a skilled plastic surgeon who can treat many areas of the body through VASER liposuction in Denver, CO.

Most common areas include:

  1. Stomach: VASER liposuction can help patients achieve a flatter tummy by removing excess fat from the midsection.
  2. Flanks (Waist, Hips, Back): Contouring the flanks can give patients a more defined waist and make their silhouette look more proportionate.
  3. Thighs (including knees): Reducing the size of thighs is a common goal for many patients. VASER liposuction can contour the thighs/legs for a slimmer appearance.
  4. Arms: Reducing the size of the upper arms and giving a much more contoured appearance to the underside of the arm
  5. Chin: By treating the tissues and removal of fat from the chin area, a much more defined jawline and decreased “double chin” can be expected

Can I treat more than one area at once?

Patients should attend a consultation at Peak Plastic Surgery Center before making any decisions about treatment. Dr. Barker will assess your goals and formulate a personalized plan for the most effective body sculpting results possible. In most cases, patients can treat multiple areas during the same procedure.

How do I make results last?

The most effective way to ensure long-lasting results from VASER liposuction is to maintain a healthy lifestyle through eating a well-balanced diet and exercising regularly. Our staff can provide detailed instructions about taking care of your body after surgery.

Sculpt your body with VASER liposuction

Excess fat in the stomach, flanks, thighs, arms and chin areas can be difficult to remove through traditional methods alone. If you are unhappy with your contour and want to learn more about VASER liposuction in Denver, CO, contact Peak Plastic Surgery Center and meet with plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Barker. We are experts in body sculpting and are dedicated to helping our patients achieve the best possible results.

A common question we receive at Peak Plastic Surgery is: Who is a candidate for a mini tummy tuck? This is a frequent inquiry because there is often confusion about the difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).

When we talk about a mini tummy tuck, it specifically addresses excess abdominal skin below the belly button. Essentially, the goal is to flatten the area below the belly button by removing any excess abdominal skin. This procedure often targets damaged skin below the belly button, which is commonly caused by stretch marks. In many cases, this damage results from pregnancy in women or significant weight gain in men.

When patients call our office and speak with my coordinator prior to their consultation, we ask a few key questions to determine their concerns. If excess abdominal skin is mentioned, we follow up by asking:

  • Where is the excess skin located?
  • Is it all over the abdomen or just in the lower part?

If a patient indicates the issue is primarily in the lower abdomen, especially following a C-section, they are often ideal candidates for a mini abdominoplasty. C-section scars frequently tether to the abdominal wall, creating contour irregularities or an “overflow” of skin above the scar.

A mini tummy tuck is effective in removing this lower abdominal skin, and it can be combined with laser liposuction (performed while awake in my clinic) to achieve a smooth, flat appearance. However, candidacy also depends on other factors, including:

  • Weight status: Are you at or near your goal weight?
  • Pregnancy history: Have you had a recent pregnancy?
  • Recovery timeline: Has enough time passed (typically 6–8 months) for your skin and subcutaneous tissues to heal and retract after pregnancy?

If you’re a mother, we need to evaluate where your muscles have settled after pregnancy. The abdominal muscles (rectus musculature) often separate in the middle (a condition called rectus diastasis), and while they may return to their normal position, they sometimes require surgical repair.

If muscle repair is necessary, the procedure will require general anesthesia. If not, the procedure can be done while you’re awake. All of these factors are assessed during your consultation to determine the most appropriate approach for your mini abdominoplasty.

For many of my patients, the decision comes down to whether the excess skin is located only below the belly button. If there’s no excess skin above the belly button, a mini tummy tuck may be the ideal solution. In cases where there are additional skin or muscle concerns, we might discuss options like adding laser liposuction or performing muscle repair.

For mothers specifically, we recommend waiting at least 6–8 months after giving birth to allow the skin to heal and the abdominal muscles to settle. This ensures we have a clear picture of your body’s post-pregnancy recovery before proceeding with surgery.

It’s also worth noting that a mini abdominoplasty does not preclude future procedures. For instance, patients may later opt for a full tummy tuck due to changes in weight, skin elasticity, or personal goals. While I prefer to achieve optimal results in one surgery whenever possible, patient goals and circumstances often evolve over time.

Ultimately, deciding on a mini tummy tuck depends on your individual goals and timeline. During your preoperative phone consultation with my coordinator, and later in your in-person consultation with me, we’ll discuss your concerns and expectations to determine the best surgical approach for you.

For those wondering if a mini tummy tuck is right for them: the ideal candidate is someone who is close to their goal weight and wants to address excess skin below the belly button. Whether it’s due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or other factors, this procedure can help patients achieve a flatter, more defined lower abdomen.

Even if you decide on a mini abdominoplasty now, you remain a candidate for a full tummy tuck in the future if needed. Our goal is to guide you through this process and ensure your surgical outcomes align with your long-term goals.

Learn more and schedule your consultation!