Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures available in the US, with around four hundred thousand procedures each year performed on various parts of the body. Laser liposuction is one of many newer cosmetic technologies that are now provided as an alternative or an enhancement to this popular procedure. Although it might appear to be an ideal choice at first, many plastic surgeons have warned against the side effects of laser liposuction. So, what is it exactly, and is it effective?
What is Laser Liposuction?
Also sometimes referred to as laser lipolysis, laser-assisted liposuction or laser lipoplasty, laser liposuction works in a similar way to traditional lipo for more info, https://www.thelipogroup.com/liposuction/. It is also known under a variety of brand names including SmartLipo, Accusculpt, CoolLipo and SlimLipo to name a few.
Laser lipo is carried out with the patient under local anesthetic. The process involves passing a very thin fiber-optic cable underneath the skin. The cable carries a laser beam that will melt away fat by heating the tissue up to nine hundred degrees.
Is It Effective?
Although laser liposuction was studied and introduced over a decade ago in the early 1990s, no FDA approval was provided at the time since there was no proof of any real benefit of the procedure. However, during the early 2000s, new lasers were developed, and these were eventually granted FDA approval.
There have been various studies to suggest that laser lipo is an effective procedure and does provide many benefits for reducing fat and skin tightening. However, some plastic surgeons say that there have never been studies to suggest that laser liposuction is any better than other liposuction methods for fat loss and tightening of the skin. The general view of this procedure within the industry is that there is no clear advantage clinically of getting laser liposuction compared to a traditional liposuction method, which is why many clinicians have been slow to accept it.
Possible Complications and Side Effects:
While laser lipo might be just as effective as the other methods of liposuction out there, it’s important to consider the possible complications and side effects that you might experience if you decide to opt for this procedure rather than traditional liposuction. Since laser liposuction melts away fat at high temperatures, it can result in an uneven and lumpy texture of connective tissues and subcutaneous fat, which can leave an undesirable feel and appearance.
In addition, there is also a larger risk of third-degree burns with laser liposuction compared to other methods. If a skin burn occurs as a result of laser liposuction, it is usually always followed by scarring. Laser liposuction also carries a greater risk of infection compared to traditional lipo procedures.
Choosing a Lipo Practitioner:
Bear in mind that around 40% of laser liposuction procedures are carried out by practitioners who have very little surgical training. Many are not highly skilled when it comes to performing this procedure, although some might have received advanced training.
Plastic surgeons are usually the best choice for a laser liposuction procedure. Since they are experienced and knowledgeable about various types of procedures available, they may also be able to help by offering alternatives that are safer and carry less risk, while still helping you get the results that you want. If you do choose to have laser liposuction, your choice of a practitioner will be absolutely essential. Somebody who is highly experienced with this procedure will reduce your risk of infection and other complications.
Why is Laser Liposuction Promoted as a Better Option?
As a client, you might have come across various marketing strategies and tactics that are used to promote laser lipo as a more effective or desirable option. For example, you might hear that it is less invasive, less painful, more effective, easier to recover from, or that it provides noticeable results.
However, it’s important to note the facts and be careful when it comes to what you believe about laser liposuction. While it is effective, there is no clear evidence to prove that the procedure is any more or less painful compared to regular or traditional lipo. In addition, while laser liposuction might be slightly less invasive than other types, a cannula will still be a necessary part of the procedure for fat removal.
How Much Does Laser Liposuction Cost?
Whether or not to opt for laser liposuction is entirely up to you. Although it is no more effective than other types of liposuction, there are various reasons why you might decide it is the best option for you, or if you want to use it as a complementary treatment to traditional liposuction in order to receive the best results. You can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000 for the procedure, depending on the area of your body to be treated. The upper abdomen is typically the costliest area for the procedure to be carried out.
While laser liposuction is effective, studies show that it is no more effective than traditional lipo. Because of this, most plastic surgery experts recommend using it as a complementary treatment only, as well as taking the time to find a reputable and experienced practitioner.
