Laser-Assisted Liposuction in St. Louis
Laser-Assisted Liposuction is the latest method for removing fat utilizing laser technology. The technique involves the use of a laser to rapidly dissolve the fat and tighten the surrounding skin almost anywhere in the body. The procedure is done in an office setting and does not require the use of a general anesthetic.
Watch a Laser Liposuction Procedure!
Who is a candidate for Laser-Assisted Liposuction?
Laser-Assisted Liposuction is for people who are in good health, not overweight, have an active lifestyle and have pocket(s) of fat that they just haven’t been able to get rid of with normal diet and exercise.
Who is not a candidate for Laser-Assisted Liposuction?
If you have any of the following conditions, you are not a good candidate for Laser-Assisted Liposuction:
• liver problems
• blood disorders
• kidney problems
• heart problems
• skin disorders
Which areas is Laser-Assisted Liposuction useful for?
• waist
• chin (double or hanging chin)
• inner and outer thighs
• hips
• buttocks
• upper arms
• face (not around eyes)
• male with breasts
• back of neck
• pubic mound
How much fat can be removed with each Laser-Assisted Liposuction procedure?
The procedure is excellent for removal of localized fat, and as much as 3500mls of fat can be melted away at a single session.
Is fat removal permanent?
The fat removal is semi-permanent. If you gain weight, some fat cells will enlarge in areas treated and not treated with the laser. Despite what the manufacturers and the doctors claim, there is no treatment which can permanently remove all the fat cells. The best way to permanent fat removal is to continue exercise and watch your diet.
How is the procedure done?
The procedure is done in an office or clinic. Prior to the procedure, the fatty areas are marked and a local anesthetic is used to numb the area. The laser is a pen-held device which is fired close to the skin. As soon as the laser is fired, the fat cells break up. The fluid released is removed with a micro cannula in areas numbed by a local anesthetic. The laser also causes small blood vessels to coagulate (gel) immediately on contact, resulting in less bleeding and swelling. The laser also affects the collagen in the skin. The procedure causes the skin to tighten and shrink giving a pleasing appearance. Each session takes 1-2 hrs.
What is recovery like?
You may experience minimal bruising, but the procedure itself is basically pain-free. A pressure dressing or a compression is garment depending on the location of the treated area. The compression dressing or garment helps to decrease the swelling. Most people resume normal activities in a day. The bruising disappears in 2-3 days. The mild ache can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medications.
When can I expect to see results?
Soon after the laser liposuction procedure, the treated area will appear tighter, compact and smaller. Within the next 6-8 weeks, the skin and surrounding area will remodel and adjust to the body contour. The remodeling is a gradual process and the best results are seen after two months.
How many sessions can one have?
This will depend on the number of areas that you want you treated, but in most cases it’s usually 2-3.
When can I return to work after Laser-Assisted Liposuction?
In most cases you should be able to return to work within 24 hours.
Can Laser-Assisted Liposuction be used with Liposuction?
Yes, Laser-Assisted Liposuction is most effective in treating small and hard to get areas of fat. After conventional liposuction has been performed, if a small amount of contouring is required, Laser Liposuction is an excellent enhancement.
What are the advantages with Laser-Assisted Liposuction over other procedures?
• Laser-Assisted Liposuction offers minimal discomfort during the procedure
• There is minimal pain which only lasts 24-48 hrs
• Majority of individuals can return to work in 24 hrs
• There is minimal bleeding or bruising
• There is no loosening or hanging skin after the procedure
• There are no side effects of general anesthesia
• There are no incisions or suturing involved
Is Laser-Assisted Liposuction approved for use in the USA?
Yes, Laser Liposuction has been approved for use in the USA by the FDA since 2006.
How much is Laser-Assisted Liposuction and is it covered by insurance?
Laser-Assisted Liposuction cost varies by area treated. You should discuss the costs with your cosmetic surgeon before your procedure so that you are fully aware of all of the charges. Laser-assisted liposuction is considered a cosmetic procedure and it is not covered by insurance companies. Our office can advise you about financing options such as Care Credit that will allow you to space payments for your procedure over time.
