Laser Lipo: A Complete Guide to Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Treatment

Laser Lipo: The Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Treatment

With summer just around the corner, many are looking for ways to slim down and get bikini body ready. While diet and exercise are key, sometimes stubborn pockets of fat persist no matter how hard you work. This is where laser lipo can help.

Laser lipo, also known as laser lipolysis or laser fat removal, is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses laser energy to break down fat cells and tighten skin. It has grown in popularity over the past decade as an alternative to liposuction - without the needles, downtime and risks.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about laser lipo treatment:

What is Laser Lipo and How Does it Work?

Laser lipo utilizes low levels of laser energy, targeting specific areas of unwanted fat bulges and pockets on the body. The laser light creates small pores in the cell membranes of fat cells, causing the fat to leak out.

The released fat is then naturally eliminated from the body through the lymphatic system over the next few weeks. The low level laser heating also stimulates collagen production in the treatment areas, leading to naturally tighter skin.

Some of the FDA-cleared laser lipo devices include Zerona, SculpSure, CoolSculpting, TruSculpt flex and Strawberry Laser Lipo. Each has its own unique wavelength and technology but the concept is the same - using cold or low-level lasers to cause fat cell disruption and elimination.

What Areas Can Be Treated?

Laser lipo can be used to non-surgically reduce fat bulges and sculpt problem areas all over the body, such as:

• Abdomen
• Flanks or love handles
• Back fat or bra rolls
• Upper arms
• Inner and outer thighs
• Knees
• Buttocks
• Chin and neck area

Treatment times range from 10 minutes up to an hour depending on the body area. Often, two or more areas are treated during one session to maximize results.

What Results Can I Expect From Laser Lipo?

Most patients see a reduction of 1-3 inches from the treatment areas after a complete laser lipo series. Some stubborn fat pockets may require multiple treatments to see optimal results. Improvements continue over the next 8-12 weeks as the body flushes out the disrupted fat cells.

In addition to fat reduction, many also notice skin tightening benefits. The heating of the dermal layer stimulates new collagen for firmer skin tone and texture.

Results are gradual and subtle, similar to those from non-surgical skin tightening treatments. Laser lipo is NOT a replacement for liposuction, which removes fat cells permanently through suctioning.

Is Laser Lipo Permanent Fat Removal?

The fat cells are not immediately removed during laser lipo treatments. The external laser application causes the fat cell membranes to temporarily open and release some of the triglyceride oil. The fat cell itself still remains.

However, once emptied, studies show fat cells have poor survival rates. Over time, the treated fat cells die off and are naturally eliminated from the treatment areas. Remaining fat cells may expand to fill the freed space, but the overall reduction can be long-lasting if maintained with a healthy lifestyle.

How Many Laser Lipo Sessions Are Needed?

Most patients require a series of 6-8 laser lipo sessions spaced every 7-10 days for optimal results. The number of treatments depends on the amount of fat to be reduced and the body area. More sessions are generally needed to treat multiple areas.

Stubborn fat pockets like the abdomen, flanks and thighs often require 8-12 sessions for the best reduction. Smaller areas like the knees or arms may only need 4-6. Following the recommended treatment plan customized to your body goals is key.

What is the Recovery Time After Laser Lipo?

There is virtually no recovery time needed after laser lipo treatments. Some patients report mild redness or swelling in the treated area for a couple hours post-treatment. This resolves quickly.

You can return to normal activities immediately with no downtime. This non-invasive nature and quick recovery is one of the biggest appeals of laser lipo compared to liposuction.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Potential side effects from laser lipo are minimal. There may be some redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness in the treated area, but this usually resolves within a few hours. Numbness and tingling can sometimes last a few weeks.

There are no open wounds, stitches or risks of infection with a non-invasive procedure. Only mild discomfort is experienced during the treatment.

How Much Does Laser Lipo Cost?

Each laser lipo session ranges from $250-$500 depending on the provider and geographic location. Areas like the abdomen or flanks require larger applicators that come with a higher price tag.

When considering cost, remember multiple sessions are required to complete treatment. The total cost can be anywhere from $1500 to $4000+ for a full series targeting multiple body areas.

While not cheap, it is still less expensive than liposuction. There are also some devices designed for at-home use if you can tolerate the treatment discomfort yourself.

Should I Consider Laser Lipo?

Laser lipo is a great option if you struggle with small pockets of stubborn fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. It can help sculpt and contour problem spots.

However, it generally produces more subtle fat reduction rather than dramatic weight loss. The best results come from maintaining a healthy diet and fitness regimen in conjunction with treatments.

Laser lipo is also not a solution for cellulite reduction or significant skin laxity. Other devices like radiofrequency and ultrasound work better for overall skin tightening.

Discuss your goals and expectations thoroughly with a provider. Laser lipo can be part of an overall body contouring plan, but may not give the results you want as a stand-alone treatment.

Is Laser Lipo Right for Me?

The ideal laser lipo candidate is close to their goal weight, eats healthy and exercises, but has stubborn pockets of fat. Good skin elasticity is also important.

Those with obesity, significant fat deposits or loose skin may be better candidates for liposuction or procedures like a tummy tuck. Laser lipo generally works best on smaller treatment areas.

There are no major restrictions on who can undergo laser lipo, as long as you are cleared by your provider. However, results are variable and managing expectations is key.

How Do I Find a Provider?

Look for an experienced cosmetic provider in your area that offers laser lipo treatments. Many dermatology, plastic surgery and med spa clinics now offer the popular procedure.

Do your research and read reviews to find a practice known for their body contouring expertise. An initial consultation is the best way to determine if you are a good candidate and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

The Takeaway

Non-invasive laser lipo can be an effective way to eliminate small, stubborn fat pockets and enhance body contouring results. While not a replacement for liposuction, it is a safe alternative with no downtime.

Work with a qualified provider to determine if laser fat reduction is suited to your specific goals. Be realistic about expected results - laser lipo delivers modest but noticeable improvements over a series of treatments.

By combining laser lipo with healthy eating habits and an active lifestyle, you can slim and sculpt your body for swimsuit season this summer and beyond.

FAQs

How is laser lipo different from liposuction?

Laser lipo is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses low-level laser energy to eliminate fat cells. It does not remove fat cells permanently like liposuction and results are more gradual. There is no anesthesia or downtime required.

Is the fat removal from laser lipo permanent?

While laser lipo empties and shrinks fat cells, it does not completely remove them. Fat cell reduction is long-lasting if maintained with a healthy lifestyle, but remaining cells can expand. Additional treatments may be needed for upkeep.

What does laser lipo feel like?

Most patients feel some minor warmth or tingling sensation during laser lipo treatments. There may be mild discomfort depending on your pain tolerance. No anesthesia is required and you can resume normal activities immediately after.

How many laser lipo treatments are required?

Most patients need 6-12 sessions spaced 7-10 days apart for optimal laser lipo results. More treatments are usually required for larger or multiple body areas. Following your recommended plan is important.

What are the risks and side effects?

Potential side effects are minimal but may include short-term redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness. There are no serious risks since laser lipo is non-invasive. More invasive procedures like liposuction carry higher risks.