Liposuction: The Basics

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes undesired deposits of fat from the body. Suction tubes are inserted into the body through small incisions, and a vacuum is attached to these hoses and sucks out the fatty cells.

Laser Liposuction Procedures

This type of liposuction is different. In this procedure, a low-energy laser is directed at the part of the body where fat is to be removed. These waves penetrate the skin and weaken the cellular membranes of adipose (fat) cells. The fat that these cells hold essentially leaks out of the pierced cells.

After the laser is used, a cannula (a tiny surgical tool) is inserted into an incision and the skin. This instrument is used to "suck out" the liberated fat - just like conventional liposuction, but with a much smaller and less invasive incision.

Finally, the low-energy laser is used to reduce potential pain. In the final part of a laser liposuction procedure, the laser is used to reduce inflammation and swelling. Most patients return the next day for an additional pain management session, and they usually notice dramatically lower levels of post-operation discomfort.

Eligible Body Parts

Laser liposuction is used primarily on the abdomen, hips, thighs, and knees (for women). For men, the procedure is used on the abdomen, love handles, breast/chest area, arms, and neck. This procedure can even be performed on the arm pit area to remove sweat glands, which reduces unsightly sweating without adversely affecting your body's ability to stay cool.

Advantages of Laser Liposuction

Tumescent and ultrasonic-assisted liposuction, the conventional types of liposuction, usually require a long recovery period. This procedure, in contrast, has a relatively short recovery time, with most patients returning to normal activities in only a few days. Additionally, because it is a less invasive procedure, patients who choose laser liposuction see much less swelling and bruising.

Because laser liposuction also involves laser-assisted pain management, most patients don't need to use prescription pain medication after their surgery. Similarly, laser liposuction takes much less time to execute, so local anesthesia and a sedative - not general anesthesia - are the only medications that a patient will need.

Another benefit of this new procedure is that the fat removed from one area of the body can be redistributed to sculpt the body in other places. A great example is that it can be used to plump the lips.