Laser-Assisted Liposuction is a fat reduction solution that is essentially based on previous liposuction techniques, though it is improved with the use of laser energy allowing the process to be less invasive compared to traditional liposuction.
Laser-Assisted Liposuction is designed to liquefy the targeted fat for easier, faster removal. The laser energy also causes the treated area’s collagen to contract, providing some additional skin tightening benefits.
The laser energy reduces recovery time, creating less tissue damage in the surrounding areas to those that are treated, compared to traditional liposuction. This procedure is also considered to be less uncomfortable with a shorter recovery period.
A compression garment is generally required to be worn for a short period after Laser-Assisted Liposuction to help minimise bruising and speed up your recovery.
Why Have Laser-Assisted Liposuction? The ideal candidate for Laser-Assisted Liposuction has stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to exercise and a healthy diet. While there may be some skin laxity, this procedure is not recommended for those with loose, hanging skin.
The Laser-Assisted Liposuctionprocedure is however helpful in treating the following conditions:
Stubborn belly fat. Laser-Assisted Liposuction can target the areas of the belly that are holding excess weight and are resistant to exercise and diet.
Neck and jaw definition. The Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure can reduce fat and sculpt the neck and jaw for a sharper and more youthful contour and profile.
Shaping arms. Lessening stubborn fat deposits in the arms can be achieved with Laser-Assisted Liposuction.
Buttocks that require reducing stubborn fat deposits or contouring the shape of the buttocks.
Leg shape and size. Laser-Assisted Liposuction can address excess fat in the thigh and contour for desired shape.
Mummy Makeover. The Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure can help in removing stubborn “baby fat”.
Procedure
Prior to the Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure, you should discuss with your doctor the arrangements that are made to ensure your comfort and safety. However, typically, the Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure is a day surgery treatment that is performed under a mild sedation. The surgeon will make small micro-punctures into the targeted treatment area. This is where the laser energy enters through a fine cannula. The technology of the laser will then melt the subcutaneous fat into a liquid state. The molten fat can then naturally excrete from the body, however, in some cases, a drainage device is used to remove the fat.
The heat energy of the Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure also encourages your collagen production to increase, resulting in improved skin elasticity and toning. This skin tightening and improved tone will continue to improve for weeks well after the treatment, providing you with more improved results months after treatment.
A compression garment is required to be worn for a period after the Laser Assisted Liposuction procedure to help minimise bruising, maintain the desired contour and to help hasten your liposuction recovery.
The recovery period of the Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure is much shorter than traditional liposuction and there are little to no scarring. The results of the Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure depend on the individual characteristics of your body. This includes your age, the amount of excess fat, the chosen area to be treated and the quality of your skin.
Like so many aesthetic procedures results will also depend on the training and experience of your chosen practitioner. Typically, some patients are satisfied with the results after one procedure, while others may require several procedures to obtain the desired results. While Laser-Assisted Liposuction results are immediately visible, the best results are visible after several weeks, with ongoing improvements seen up to three months after treatment.
Risks and Complications
While rare, there are possible risks following laser-assisted liposuction that can range from infection, skin necrosis, dimpling, lumpiness, numbness, scarring, discolouration, excessive skin sagging as well as ongoing discomfort in the surgically treated area. Burns to the underside of the skin can also result while the laser is being inserted under the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Who is the ideal candidate for Laser-Assisted Liposuction? A. The ideal candidate for this procedure has stubborn fat deposits and mild skin laxity issues. The Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure is not recommended for anyone who is currently at an unhealthy or unstable weight, or those with excessive loose, hanging skin.
Q. What are the side effects of having a Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure? A. Typically you will have some redness, soreness and swelling, including bruising after treatment. These side effects will start to subside within 10 days, though the swelling can last up to 10 weeks. Wearing a compression garment will aid in the speed of your recovery.
Q. Is the Laser Assisted Liposuction painful? A. Typically the procedure is comfortable as you would be treated with a mild sedation. Post-treatment there can be some discomfort, though your prescribing doctor can provide you with the appropriate post-operative pain care.
Q. How long until I can enjoy the results from a Laser-Assisted Liposuction treatment? A. The results are visible immediately following the procedure. These results however will continue to improve for four to six weeks as your swelling subsides. The full, improved results of the treatment will take between three to six months after the cosmetic procedure.
Q. Is Laser-Assisted Liposuction safe? A. Yes. In Australia and in the hands of a trained, qualified and experienced doctor, using approved Laser-Assisted Liposuction technology, this procedure is considered safe.
Cost
Like all procedures, the price of Laser-Assisted Liposuction will vary from provider to provider and the brand of technology. As a guideline expect to pay between $2400 – $5500.
