Laser lipolysis is an advanced, FDA-approved cosmetic procedure used to remove fatty tissue from localized areas of the body and contour those areas by tightening the affected skin. It is a body contouring treatment rather than a weight-loss procedure, used for individuals looking to refine specific areas. Designed specifically to target fat in parts of the body resistant to diet and exercise, lipolysis is a minimally invasive procedure, and represents a technological advance over liposuction, the original treatment for removal of localized fat.
Benefits of Laser Lipolysis
Although effective, liposuction is an invasive procedure that requires a lengthy recovery time. Laser lipolysis, on the other hand, offers effective results with minimal downtime. Just as there are several types of liposuction, there are several types of laser lipolysis. All are derived from conventional liposuction, during which unwanted fatty tissue is suctioned out of the body through small tubes called cannulas. In laser lipolysis, laser energy melts the fatty tissue before its removal, and smaller cannulas, which cause less tissue trauma, are used.
Laser lipolysis, when performed as an isolated procedure, treats only small areas of the body. It is sometimes referred to as “lunchtime lipo” because it takes only an hour or two to produce effective results. When a more significant reduction of fatty tissue is required, laser lipolysis is often performed along with traditional liposuction, helping patients to achieve maximum results in just one treatment.
After treatment, a patient can expect significant circumferential reduction and skin-tightening in the targeted area. Common areas treated with laser lipolysis include the waist, abdomen, back, hips, buttocks, knees, ankles, face, and neck.
Key Benefits of Laser Lipolysis
Laser lipolysis offers several advantages over traditional liposuction, though results can vary based on individual collagen response. Benefits include:
- Less trauma to surrounding tissue.
- Shorter procedure time.
- Less scarring.
- Minimal downtime.
- Effective fat removal.
- Skin-tightening benefits.
- Lower risk of complications.
The Laser Lipolysis Procedure
The laser lipolysis procedure works along the same lines as the conventional liposuction procedure, except that it uses laser technology. Laser energy heats the fat cells, liquefying them and making them easy to remove through the smaller cannulas. This significantly reduces the trauma of the procedure. The laser also improves the treatment-area skin by stimulating collagen production, which may lead to some skin tightening, though results vary from patient to patient. Conventional liposuction often leaves skin loose and hanging.
When performed on its own, laser lipolysis requires only local anesthesia, and is generally well tolerated. Depending on the size of the area treated, the procedure can last from less than an hour to several hours. Because the incision is small, no sutures are needed, and scarring is minimal. In some cases, scarring is not visible at all. A patient can return home shortly after treatment.
Risks of Laser Lipolysis
Although laser lipolysis is considered safe, it is not appropriate for patients who are pregnant or regularly take certain medications. Because of the minimally invasive nature of the treatment, there is a lower risk of side effects, which include:
- Mild bruising and swelling.
- Temporary soreness in the treated area.
- Minimal bleeding at the incision site.
- Palpable lumps that resolve over time.
More serious complications, such as nausea, vomiting, fever, infection, prolonged bruising, or in rare cases, burns from laser heat, are possible. Patients should seek medical attention if these symptoms occur. If any concerning symptoms arise, patients should seek medical attention immediately.
Recovery From Laser Lipolysis
After laser lipolysis, patients can often return to work and other regular activities within one to two days. Wearing a compression garment may help enhance results and reduce swelling. The positive effects of the procedure are immediately apparent, and the treated area, as it heals, continues to improve for several months. As with conventional liposuction, results of laser lipolysis are considered permanent unless a significant amount of weight is gained after treatment.
Enhance Your Shape With Laser Lipolysis
Experience the benefits of laser lipolysis and achieve a sculpted, toned body with minimal downtime. This advanced procedure allows for natural-looking enhancements without invasive surgery. Book your consultation today to learn more about how laser lipolysis can help refine your contours.