How is laser-assisted liposuction performed?

Local Anesthesia
In our practice, patients undergoing laser-assisted liposuction with the SlimLipo™ laser are given local anesthesia. Because general anesthesia is not required, the SlimLipo procedure offers minimal down time.

Proper Technique
To provide effective minimization pain and downtime, we use a low volume tumescent technique employing around 500cc of a dilute local anesthetic. At our accredited facility, strict sterile techniques and operating room protocols are followed including the full use of gowns, gloves, drapes and proper surgical prep.

No incisions
Rather than making an incision with a scalpel, however, a small hypodermic needle is used to make a puncture wound through which the laser fibers and cannulae are introduced. The laser fiber is initially introduced and the amount of energy used is regulated by closely following the temperature of the skin. A small suction cannnulae is used to removed the fat which has been lasered and to heat the overlying skin.

Return to work the next day
At the end of the procedure, a suture is not required.  A sterile dressing is placed over the puncture wound.  Because no sedation is necessary, patients are generally able to get up off the operating table on their own.   Compression garments are required after the procedure, and patients can put them on by themselves with minimal assistance. The garments are only required to be worn for 72 hours. Most patients return to work the next day.  Our practice does not generally place specific restrictions on activities following the procedure.

Proven Results

Studies performed in our facility and others seem to support these results when comparing laser liposuction to traditional liposuction methods:

• Greater skin tightening
• Improved safety for patients

We have seen a documented trend towards greater skin tightening in the upper arm in patients treated with the laser plus liposuction than when they are treated with liposuction alone. In addition, the patients in our studies with the SlimLipo™ have much less bruising when compared in a retrospective fashion to those previously treated with conventional and power-assisted technologies.

Just as significant, however, this laser technology allow us to treat patients with a protocol that we believe is much easier for the patient and which can be achieved with little to no down-time.

Before	After

Before	After