[Canadian Princess]

Laser Liposuction is a minimally invasive, cosmetic surgical procedure which combines traditional liposuction techniques with laser treatment. Compared to older or traditional liposuction methods, laser-assisted lipolysis is generally thought to be safer, easier and quicker, providing more precise body contouring along with a skin tightening effect and minimal downtime.



Laser liposuction can be performed on many areas of the face and body, including the abdomen, arms, back, buttocks, chin, flanks, hips, knees, male chest, neck, thighs and waist. The laser enables many more individuals to be treated who previously would have needed surgery along with liposuction, often due to loose skin. Smaller areas and contour deformities not suitable for treatment with traditional liposuction are ideal for treatment with laser liposuction due to the enhanced precision of the laser. Laser liposuction can also treat areas with little or no fat like the submental area, or the area beneath the chin, as well as areas which have previously been treated with liposuction for improvement of contour deformities and skin laxity. Individuals who cannot afford the lengthy recovery associated with other treatments will find laser liposuction to be a particularly appealing treatment due to the rapid recovery and minimal downtime.

Laser liposuction is most often performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia, thus eliminating the risks associated with general anesthesia. Each targeted area can typically be treated in less than one hour. During the procedure, a small cannula fitted with a single laser fiber is inserted through small incisions in the treatment area. Because the incisions are small, there are no visible scars. Once the cannula is inserted, the energy from the laser liquefies the fat cells which are then drained away. The laser provides an additional skin tightening effect for improved contour, and the precision of the laser also helps to preserve the surrounding tissue.



There is little downtime or recovery associated with laser liposuction and most patients are able to return to their normal routine and work within one to two days. Patients report less discomfort, bruising and swelling than with traditional liposuction. The results of laser liposuction are long-lasting with sensible diet and exercise.


There are many different types of laser available for use, including the ProLipo Plus™ by Sciton. This minimally invasive, ultra high-powered laser system melts away unwanted fat while also tightening the skin. This technique helps to maintain firmer, smoother, more evenly toned skin with fewer risks and less downtime than traditional liposuction. There are also several new laser liposuction devices which are currently being studied and offering promising results. BodyTite™ from Invasix is a new all-in-one technology which uses radio frequency internally to achieve simultaneous lipolysis and skin tightening. This new technology allows for much shorter procedural times, improved results and fewer side effects. Another company, Zeltiq, is developing a patented technique called Cryolipolysis™. This new approach to fat removal uses precisely controlled cooling of fat cells for removal without harming the surrounding skin or tissue. This technology can be used to safely remove fat cells near nerves, muscle and bone.