What Is Laser Lipolysis?

Laser lipolysis is also known as laser-assisted liposuction. Fat tissue is heated and broken down by a laser fibre inside a thin cannula placed under the skin through small incisions, and is then usually removed by suction. It is a surgical procedure performed through small incisions. Results vary from person to person.

For a comparison of liposuction methods, you can read our article Which Areas Can Liposuction Be Applied To?

Which Areas Is It Applied To?

Laser lipolysis is mostly considered for areas with small to moderate localised fat deposits. These include the area under the chin, the arms, abdomen, waist, back, thighs and inner knees. For more widespread fat deposits, it can be planned together with traditional liposuction.

In male breast enlargement (gynaecomastia), it can be used if the enlargement is caused by fat tissue; if the breast gland tissue has enlarged, surgical removal of the gland tissue may be needed. For details you can read our gynaecomastia page.

Who Is It Suitable For?

Laser lipolysis can be considered for women and men aged 18 and over who are found suitable at the examination. Suitable candidates are generally people who are close to their ideal weight, have a stable weight, good skin elasticity and localised fat deposits that have not reduced despite diet and exercise. Laser lipolysis is not a weight-loss method.

It is not performed, or is postponed, in the case of uncontrolled chronic illness, bleeding disorders, pregnancy and breastfeeding, or a skin infection in the treatment area. Regularly used medicines should be reported to the doctor at the examination.

How Is It Performed?

• The areas to be treated are marked.
• Local anaesthesia is usually preferred for small areas, and sedation or general anaesthesia for larger areas.
• Fluid is introduced into the area through incisions a few millimetres long, and a thin cannula carrying the laser fibre is placed under the skin.
• The fat tissue broken down by laser energy is usually removed by suction with cannulas, and the incisions are closed.

The heat of the laser is thought to contribute to some tightening of the tissue under the skin; however, it does not remove significant skin sagging. In significant sagging, lifting operations are considered.

After the Procedure

After procedures on small areas, most people go home the same day. Swelling, bruising and tenderness are expected in the first days. A compression garment is worn for the period recommended by the doctor. A return to desk work is usually possible within a few days; for intense exercise, the doctor's approval should be awaited. Lymphatic drainage massage may be done if the doctor recommends it.

As the swelling decreases, the result becomes clear over a few months. If necessary, an additional procedure can be planned; the doctor decides on its timing. For detailed information you can read our article Frequently Asked Questions After Liposuction.

Is the Result Permanent?

The removed fat cells do not come back; however, the fat cells remaining in the area can enlarge if weight is gained. To maintain the result, keeping your weight stable, eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly are important.

Risks

Like any surgical procedure, laser lipolysis has risks:

• Skin burns caused by the heat of the laser,
• Skin rippling and contour irregularity,
• Fluid collection under the skin (seroma),
• Bleeding, bruising and infection,
• Numbness and changes in sensation; these usually improve within weeks or months,
• Asymmetry.

Small scars remain at the incision sites; these fade over time. The risks should be discussed in detail with the doctor before the procedure. For detailed information you can read our liposuction page.

Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın