Liposuction is beneficial for getting rid of extra fat, but many people seek a method with easier recovery and some skin tightening benefits. Laser liposuction is an option that can help minimize downtime and address loose skin after fat reduction. This liposuction technique can offer a smoother recovery experience while also providing a bit of skin tightening.
At Chicago Aesthetic Surgery Institute, serving Rosemont and Chicago, IL, we have years of experience in performing liposuction procedures. We are dedicated to delivering careful attention to each patient, making sure their individual needs are met. With our expertise, we strive to offer effective solutions for body contouring and fat reduction.
What Is Laser Liposuction?
Laser liposuction is a procedure that targets and removes unwanted fat using laser energy and suction. This technique involves inserting a small laser fiber beneath the skin to liquefy fat cells. The liquefied fat is then gently suctioned out, resulting in a smoother contour. Additionally, the laser stimulates collagen production, which can help tighten the skin.
How Does Laser Liposuction Differ From Traditional Liposuction?
During traditional liposuction, tumescent fluid containing saline and medications is inserted into the area and then mechanical methods are used to remove the fat. Liposuction with laser technology breaks the fat down first before the removal process.
While both are used effectively for different situations, the laser method offers a gentler approach that potentially reduces bruising and swelling. The skin tightening benefits are also an added plus of laser liposuction, with the heat of the laser providing modest contraction to the surrounding tissues.
How Laser Energy Works on Fat Cells
During the liposuction procedure, the liposuction laser emits specific wavelengths of light that target fat cells. The laser energy penetrates the fat cell membranes, causing them to rupture and release their contents. This process, known as lipolysis, transforms the solid fat into a liquid form. The liquefied fat can then be easily suctioned out, resulting in effective fat removal with less trauma to surrounding tissues.
Pre-Procedure Planning
Before undergoing laser liposuction, pre-procedure planning is essential. We conduct an examination and a consultation to assess your medical history and determine if you are a suitable candidate. During this consultation, we discuss your goals, examine the areas to be treated, and explain the laser liposuction process.
Your Laser Liposuction Treatment, Step-by-Step
Anesthesia
For the liposuction laser treatment, we use local anesthesia to numb the targeted areas or general anesthesia, which is always administered by board-certified anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists. Anesthesia ensures that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Our goal is to make the process as pain-free and stress-free as possible, and the anesthetic used is a highly individual decision made between you and your surgeon.
Incisions
The liposuction procedure involves making very small incisions in the skin. These incisions are typically only a few millimeters long, allowing for the insertion of the laser fiber and cannula. The small size of the incisions minimizes scarring and promotes quicker healing.
Breaking Down Fat
During liposuction with laser technology, the laser fiber is inserted through the incisions to target fat cells. This is the stage during which the laser energy breaks down the fat cells and converts the solid fat into a liquid form. This process is precise and helps to minimize damage to surrounding tissues.
Removing Liquified Fat
In the final step of the liposuction procedure, the liquified fat is gently suctioned out using a cannula. The small size of the incisions and the liquefied state of the fat make this process less traumatic than traditional methods. The cannula is moved gently back and forth through the area to allow for even removal of the fat cells.
Post-Procedure Care for Laser Liposuction
After laser liposuction, you will need to follow specific post-procedure care guidelines. Wearing a compression garment during liposuction recovery helps reduce swelling and supports the treated areas. Light activities can usually be resumed within a few days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks. Keeping the incision sites clean and adhering to any additional instructions will promote healing.
What Areas Can Be Treated With Laser Liposuction?
- Back, Side, and Stomach Liposuction: Laser liposuction is effective for contouring bra fat, love handles, and abdominal fat. This technique can specifically target stubborn fat deposits that take away from a smooth contour.
- Arm Liposuction: Arm liposuction with laser technology reduces fat and tightens the skin on the upper arms. This treatment is ideal for addressing “bat wings” and improving arm definition.
- Chin and Neck Liposuction: Chin and neck liposuction with the laser can help reduce a double chin and improve jawline definition. This procedure is particularly beneficial for those looking to refine their facial profile.
- Thigh Liposuction: Laser liposuction can effectively target fat deposits on the inner and outer thighs. This treatment helps in achieving smoother and more contoured legs and reduces chafing in the area.
Will Fat Return After Laser Liposuction?
After liposuction recovery, the fat cells removed during laser liposuction do not return. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent the remaining fat cells from enlarging. Significant weight gain can lead to fat accumulation in untreated areas. Following a balanced diet and regular exercise can help you sustain the results of your treatment.
Learn More About the Types of Liposuction
Laser liposuction offers a minimally invasive solution for reducing fat and tightening skin with minimal downtime. At Chicago Aesthetic Surgery Institute (CASI), we have extensive experience in delivering effective body contouring treatments for our patients in Rosemont and Chicago, IL. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us online or call us at (847) 853-9900.
