Liposuction is not a new procedure, and it has been used for decades to remove stubborn pockets of fat on the body. It is not a weight loss tool and is not designed to remove large amounts of fat, but it is highly effective for small areas. Laser liposuction adds to the process by providing a less traumatic way to remove the fat from the body.
To understand the differences between the two, a simplified review of each procedure, including the pros and cons, will be helpful. Remember only through a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon familiar with both procedures can you determine if laser liposuction is right for you.
Liposuction
Traditional liposuction is often used for larger areas of the body such as the stomach, thighs, buttocks and arms. It uses tubes, known as cannulas, to remove fatty deposits using suction. In addition, you will be under general anesthesia for the liposuction procedure, so this is typically done in a hospital or surgical setting.
Traditional liposuction has limitations in areas of the body where there is a lot of fibrous tissues, such as the upper abdominal region, as well as the waist area. As there is no breakdown of the fatty tissue, there is a need for slightly larger cannulas, which mean slightly larger incisions and longer healing times. It also may create ridges and ripples as the fat is scraped from the underside of the skin.
With traditional liposuction contouring, especially between areas of the body treated and those not, good results are very difficult to achieve. Even an experienced cosmetic surgeon may not be able to provide a smooth transition.
Laser Liposuction
With a laser liposuction procedure, only local anesthesia is used so it is completed in a cosmetic surgeon’s office or clinic. Instead of larger cannulas very small cannulas, known as micro-cannulas, provide the surgeon with the opportunity to pinpoint a tiny laser inserted through the micro-cannula. This laser melts the fat cells to liquid, providing much more control over contouring and transitions between treated and untreated areas of the body.
Once the fat is liquefied, it is extracted through the micro-cannula and out of the body. The use of laser liposuction also provides natural tightening to the skin in the area treated, further reducing the risk of sagging skin common with traditional liposuction.
With laser liposuction, the healing and recovery time is about half of what is recommended for traditional liposuction. There is also very minimal bruising, making it a good choice for any area of the face or body.
At Chicago Cosmetic Institute, we provide different types of laser liposuction services for our clients. To learn more about the procedure visit us online at website or check out our Facebook page.
