Laser liposuction is associated with two significantly different procedures that share the same name. One is the original laser liposuction, which is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure where the fat is melted and broken down using a laser. A small incision is required in the treated area, through which a cannula emits a laser to destroy and later suck the dissolved fat from the body.
The second procedure also referred to as laser liposuction is a totally noninvasive process that utilizes pads warmed up by lasers to high temperatures. These pads are placed on the surface of treated areas to help dissolve the fatty deposits under the skin. Later, the body naturally flushes the destroyed fat out of the body by itself. Everything in this method is done externally, with no incisions or cannulas inserted into the body. The downside to this procedure is the extent of fat removed per session pales in comparison to the invasive version of laser liposuction.
Minimally Invasive Laser Liposuction
Pros
- FDA-approved
- Only one session needed per area
- Instant results
- Use of local anesthesia
- Only board-certified surgeons can perform this procedure
- Can help tighten the skin
Cons
- Incision is needed
- Additional risks, given the use of anesthesia
- Longer recovery times
- More side effects
- Bruising
Noninvasive Laser Liposuction
Pros
- No incision required
- No anesthesia
- Quick sessions
- Minimal associated recovery time
- Less painful comparatively
- Fewer side effects
Cons
- No instant results
- May require several sessions, which can cause costs to add up
- No skin-tightening effects
- Removes a smaller percentage of fat
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Now that we have established the facts associated with each type of procedure let’s get into how effective each one is and what is better for different patients. The minimally invasive, internal procedure is more traumatic, but at the same time, it is much more effective. In just one session, you will be done and should see results almost immediately.
With the noninvasive technique, several factors need to be considered when calculating the number of sessions required. First is the amount of excess fat the person needs to have removed, as in one sitting no more than 20 to 25 percent of the fat is removed, depending on the treatment. If the person is overweight with considerable amounts of excess fat, then it will probably take multiple sessions to see desired results. Other factors to consider are the individual patient’s expectations, how fast they want to see results, and how much time they have available. The results take several sessions to show up, and because the body flushes out the fat naturally through the lymphatic system, it will need weeks to complete the process.
If you are considering either procedure, make sure you go to a legitimate clinic with a board-certified doctor to avoid having a negative experience. Today, anyone can buy one of the new laser machines and set up a practice without a license, so take this into account when making your choice.