How Does Laser Lipo Work?
This FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure begins with small incisions that allow Dr. Schwartz to insert a micro-cannula. It works by emitting laser energy into the targeted areas of fat. The fat cells absorb heat from the laser, causing them to liquefy and break apart. These liquefied fat cells are easier to remove with gentle suction, making laser lipo gentler and less invasive. The laser energy also heats the skin from beneath, causing collagen fibers to contract. As a result, skin looks tighter and smoother, an effect you will not experience with standard liposuction methods.
How Many Sessions of Laser Lipo Are Needed for Best Results?
Although laser liposuction is less invasive than standard methods, it works just as well. Most people who have laser lipo will only need one treatment. In some cases, an individual may want to achieve additional body sculpting with the addition of a skin tightening procedure or the transfer of some of the patient’s fat to an area needing additional volume. In this case, Dr. Schwartz and his team at Premier Vein & Body by Schwartz will develop a customized treatment plan to ensure you achieve your desired results.
Laser lipo removes fat cells from the body, and they will not grow back, so liposuction results are considered extremely long-lasting. If you have an increase in weight, your body may store fat in the remaining fat cells, affecting your results. If you feel like you still want more body sculpting after laser lipo, Dr. Schwartz may recommend targeted non-invasive methods.
Laser Liposuction vs. Traditional Liposuction
Laser lipo has several advantages over standard liposuction methods, but only a consultation with Dr. Schwartz can determine which will help you reach your goals. Each form of liposuction will work better for different purposes.
Area Size
Laser liposuction excels in smaller, targeted areas to provide precise body sculpting. As a result, it works best for those closer to their goal weight. Standard liposuction can remove more fat, providing more dramatic shaping of larger areas. Which one will work best for you depends on your body type and your desired results.
Procedure
Because laser lipo liquefies fat, the procedure is gentler and less invasive than many other types of liposuction. The micro-cannula causes minimal trauma to the surrounding tissue while it melts and suctions out the fat. Although standard liposuction is not as gentle, Dr. Schwartz uses tumescent liposuction to minimize trauma and recovery time.
Recovery
Laser liposuction has a quicker recovery time. Many people return to work in two to four days. Recovery from standard liposuction usually takes at least a week. Quicker recovery contributes to making laser lipo an excellent treatment option for many people.