Liposuction
< Cosmetic Surgery

Laser Liposuction

Laser liposuction, also known as laser lipolysis, has several basic principal advantages: It allows the fat to be pre-treated, pre-tunneled and pre-softened before liposuction. Because the laser breaks up fat without removing it, the laser can be used on all layers of the fat in your skin. In traditional liposuction, the superficial layers (the fat cells closer to your skin) are avoided, as this can lead to surface irregularities. But this layer of fat is the most responsible for skin contraction. The use of the laser for treatment of the superficial fat is probably the reason we are seeing significant tightening with laser liposuction. The tip of the laser is able to heat up fat and water. Heating up fat causes the fat cells to be vaporized or melted. Heating up water causes tissue contraction. There has been significant speculation as to which aspect is leading to the significant tissue tightening with laser liposuction. The research that Dr. Mok has done shows that it is probably the direct effect of breaking up fat close to the skin that causes the skin tightening.

There are several laser liposuction devices on the market. CoolLipo™ uses 1320nm wavelength, and SmartLipo™ uses 1064nm originally (although they are switching over to 1320nm now). LaserSculpt is not a device, but instead is a branded name referring to laser liposuction and can be used interchangeably for both CoolLipo™ and SmartLipo™. The wavelengths are similar enough so both can work. Dr. Mok has chosen the CoolTouch® because it is more powerful, more specific to fat, and has more utility. If you are trying to decide which laser is best for you, our opinion is that they both have similar advantages. While the CoolLipo™ that we use has some aspects of superiority, if your doctor uses SmartLipo™, that works just fine.

Laser liposuction involves preparing the area with the laser, which essentially vaporizes the fat, causes tissue shrinkage and creates tunnels for effective all-layer liposuction. For small areas the laser can be used alone, but in general it is used in conjunction with liposuction (Micro liposuction or Microsuction).

Liposuction expenses start at $3,500, plus sedation fees, depending on the area treated. For a customized quote, book a free consultation with an Allure Medical provider today.

This service is available at these locations: