What is Laser Liposuction? The Ultimate Guide to Laser Lipo
Curious about laser liposuction? You're not alone. Over 250,000 people invest in laser lipo each year, making it the second most popular cosmetic surgery in the US. As owner and cosmetic surgeon at Ratio by BodyMath in Columbia, SC, I perform up to 10 liposuction procedures a month. Before getting started, I like to make sure my clients know the ins and outs of the process so that they can make the best decision for themselves and their unique goals. So you can make the best decision, too; here's everything you need to know about laser liposuction.
Contents:
Introduction to Laser Liposuction
Introduction to Laser Lipo
What is Laser Liposuction?
Laser liposuction is an advanced technique used in cosmetic surgery to remove excess fatty tissue from beneath the skin. Unlike traditional methods that rely on mechanical or machine-powered approaches, laser lipo utilizes laser assistance to loosen and separate fat cells from their surrounding tissues gently.
How does Laser Liposuction work?
Laser liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that uses laser technology to heat a unique solution injected under the skin. This solution breaks down connective tissue and converts excess fat cells into a liquid form. A small vacuum device is used to remove the liquefied fat. This method combines the precision of lasers with suction to sculpt the body and achieve desired aesthetic results.
It is a refined approach to contouring that effectively removes excess fat deposits, resulting in a smoother and more contoured appearance. Liposuction involves removing fatty deposits through suction, and various methods exist to achieve this. Laser lipo employs a laser to heat a water-based solution, which suctions out to remove the fat. The choice of technique depends on individual circumstances and preferences, with each method offering unique advantages and disadvantages.
How is Laser Liposuction Different from Traditional Liposuction Methods?
Compared to other traditional liposuction that relies on mechanical vibration to disrupt tissues, laser liposuction treatments offer some big advantages. Since the laser solely activates and heats the water, the procedure is minimally invasive and more precise, which leads to less bruising, better results, and an easier and faster recovery.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Laser Liposuction?
A laser lipo procedure is an excellent solution for individuals dealing with stubborn fat that resist conventional methods like exercise or dieting. If you're already at a stable weight and looking to target specific areas for body shaping or contouring, laser lipo can be highly beneficial. Our expertise is helping patients achieve a more hourglass figure, eliminating concerns such as muffin tops or lower belly pooches.
Size criteria alone do not restrict our patients, as we believe that liposuction is beneficial to a wide range of individuals. It's important to note that while laser lipo can provide remarkable results, it is not a substitute for weight loss. However, if you have specific areas you want to address, laser liposuction can be a valuable option worth considering.
Are there any specific factors that may make me ineligible for the procedure?
Before undergoing liposuction, being in good overall health is crucial. The procedure can be lengthy, lasting up to 8 hours, and certain medications used during the operation may stress the heart and lungs. Therefore, ensuring that your cardiovascular system can tolerate the procedure and medications safely is essential.
Additionally, suppose you are taking blood thinners or have a history of blood clots. In that case, liposuction may not be suitable due to the increased risk of clotting associated with major surgery. Patients with abdominal hernias are also not ideal candidates for liposuction, as the presence of an intestinal outpouching can pose significant risks during the procedure.
What to Expect During Liposuction
How long is a typical laser lipo treatment?
A typical session, such as for the anterior abdomen, can take around 5 hours. This duration is partly due to my attention to detail and desire to achieve optimal results. I strive to address even the most minor contour irregularities and ensure the outcome looks perfect before patients leave the office.
Will I need multiple laser lipo treatments to achieve my desired results, or is one session usually sufficient?
The need for multiple sessions depends on various factors, including your goals and body weight. The amount of medication used during the procedure is based on body weight, and smaller patients may not be able to have everything done in one session. Larger patients may be able to achieve more noticeable results in a single session.
For larger patients, it is often recommended to split the procedure into two sessions to ensure the safe removal of the desired volume. The FDA recommends removing no more than five liters of fat cells in one session. I prefer to space sessions at least three to four days apart to avoid toxicity risks associated with the numbing medicine.
Can laser liposuction be combined with other cosmetic procedures like fat transfer?
Yes, laser liposuction procedures can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, including fat transfer. The laser device we use is specifically designed to preserve fat cell viability, allowing us to remove fat from one area (such as the abdomen or flanks) and transfer it to another area, such as the breasts, buttocks, face, hands, or other areas where volume augmentation desired. Fat transfer using laser lipo is often more effective than one might expect.
Want more info? Check out our blog What To Expect During Laser Lipo
Awake Liposuction
Will I Be Awake During My Laser Liposuction Procedure?
Being awake during liposuction offers several advantages over general anesthesia. It enhances safety by allowing you to immediately respond to any issues that may arise during the procedure. Numbing the nerves that supply the fat ensures that you don't feel any pain. Leaving the nerves that supply the muscles intact allows you to detect any accidental injuries quickly.
Awake surgery is particularly beneficial for larger patients, as they can manage their own airways without the concerns associated with intubation. We provide sedatives to help with anxiety and promote relaxation while maintaining responsiveness. By being awake, you actively participate in decision-making, providing input on treatment areas and real-time adjustments. This collaborative approach ensures that the surgical plan aligns with your goals, resulting in a more personalized outcome. Being awake during liposuction offers increased safety, immediate responsiveness, and a more satisfying experience.
To learn more, check out our blog: The Pros and Cons of Awake Liposuction
Laser Lipo Results
Will Laser Liposuction Help Me Lose Weight?
Liposuction is not a weight loss method but rather a procedure aimed at improving body proportions and visual appearance. While it can remove a significant volume of fat, the actual weight reduction achieved is minimal due to the low density of fat. The extent of fat removal and inch reduction in the waist depends on individual body shape and fat distribution.
Laser liposuction procedures can help tighten and rejuvenate the skin to some degree, but for excessive sagging or loose skin, surgical removal may be necessary. The results of laser lipo are generally considered permanent since removed fat cells do not regenerate, but weight gain after the procedure can lead to fat accumulation in other areas. It takes several months for the final results to be fully evident, with the majority visible at around three months and the complete outcome at six months. Managing expectations, following post-operative instructions, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important for optimizing the results of laser liposuction.
Want to learn more? Check out our blogs:
Will Laser Lipo Help Me Lose Weight?
Will I Have Loose Skin After Liposuction?
Laser Liposuction Recovery
What is the recovery process for Laser Lipo?
The recovery process after laser liposuction involves wearing a compression garment and managing swelling and fluid leakage for the first few days. Soreness and discomfort, similar to post-workout feelings, can be managed with pain relievers.
Post-operative massage, particularly lymphatic drainage massage, is recommended to enhance recovery. Risks include infection, bleeding, allergic reactions, contour irregularities, skin color changes, burns, seromas, and hematomas. Physical activities should be limited in the first week, with the gradual resumption of aerobic activities after one week. Heavy lifting should be avoided for two to three weeks. Adhering to post-operative instructions and selecting a qualified surgeon can minimize risks and optimize outcomes.
What to learn more? Check out our blogs:
The Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massages After Laser Lipo
Liposuction Recovery: What to Expect After Laser Liposuction
Laser Lipo Cost
How Much Does Laser Liposuction Cost?
The cost of laser lipo can vary depending on factors such as the size of the treated area and the extent of the procedure. Prices typically range from $3,500 for small areas to $12,000 for larger areas or comprehensive packages. Discounts may be available for returning laser liposuction patients or comprehensive whole-body makeovers.
The cost is generally lower compared to other types of liposuction since there is no need to factor in the cost of anesthesia. Factors influencing the cost include supply chain costs, medication usage, and location. Providers in the United States may have higher costs compared to some international locations due to various factors, while lower-cost providers may operate on a high-volume model or have reduced overhead costs. Prices can vary, but a minimum cost of around $3,000 is typically required to cover the expenses associated with the procedure.
About Dr. Rivera
I am a skilled and experienced surgeon specializing in laser liposuction. With comprehensive training during my residency and fellowship programs, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies of this procedure.
Under the guidance of a renowned plastic surgeon, I underwent rigorous training during my residency in Las Vegas. This invaluable experience allowed me to refine my skills and gain expertise in liposuction techniques. Furthermore, my fellowship in microsurgery and head and neck oncology provided me with additional expertise in using liposuction for fat removal and transfer in complex reconstructive procedures for the face and breast.
Having completed my residency in 2016 and fellowship in 2018, I have been practicing laser liposuction in my private clinic since January 2021. My goal is to help patients achieve their desired body contours and enhance their self-confidence.
Still Curious About Laser Liposuction?
Still, have questions about laser liposuction? We'd love to answer them for you! Feel free to reach out or book a consultation with us to get your questions answered and see if you are a good fit for a laser liposuction treatment.
We look forward to speaking with you!