Lipolite Laser Liposculpture, also known as laser-assisted liposuction, is an advance on the original and better-known tumescent liposuction. Instead of inserting a mechanical scraper into large areas of problem fat and sucking out detached fat deposits, Lipolite relies on a precise, powerful laser beam to liquefy small fat deposits. Adherents tout the procedure as minimally invasive and perfect for small bulges that persist here and there.
Cosmetic Side Effects
Being a high-temperature device, Lipolite affects not only the fat deposits, but also the overlying skin. When you undergo Lipolite to fix a part of your body, this body part darkens and looks distinctly bruised. This is a trade-off because the laser also tightens the overlying skin, partially solving the problem of having to use pressure bandages for many days and weeks after traditional tumescent liposuction.
The promise that you can get back to a desk job within two days after undergoing Lipolite should be regarded with healthy skepticism. Since any surgery is traumatic where your body is concerned, your temperature will be somewhat elevated for at least two days afterward. That change in your body thermostat can show up as flushing of the face, neck and upper chest.
Other Physical Side Effects
The most significant side effect may be a sudden increase in pain and swelling starting on the fifth day after surgery. Although there are actually low odds of this happening, this is your signal that massive infection and inflammation have set in. Check with your surgeon to confirm your suspicion. The surgeon will most likely prescribe anti-infectives and anti-inflammatory drugs.
While minimally invasive, Lipolite does require local anesthesia to combat the pain. As with any surgical procedure, you will experience some bruising and lingering aches. Discomfort and soreness will peak on the second day after surgery. For at least 3 days post-surgery, do not self-prescribe with aspirin or ibuprofen. It will aggravate the bleeding still going on in the treated areas.
You will experience transient dizziness when dressings must be changed. This is especially likely when large areas of your legs or abdomen were treated. The removal of the elastic bandages or garments keeping those areas tight will bring about a sudden decompression. Blood flows there from everywhere else, including your brain. Wait a few minutes for the dizzy spell to subside.
Menstrual irregularities are common, notably because many "touch-up" requests involve flabby areas of the abdomen and waist. Your period might come earlier or be delayed.
Your State of Mind
You may not think of Lipolite as major surgery, but be wary of the lingering effects of anesthesia and the pain medicine you are prescribed for as long as you need it. Do not attempt vital, life-changing decisions the first 48 hours after undergoing Lipolite. On leaving the clinic, do not attempt to drive yourself home. Ask a trusted person to go with you.
Lipolite may seem like the gentler alternative to mechanical liposuction, especially if you are already close to your ideal weight and only small problem areas remain. Be cautious, however, of the risks that normally follow Lipolite.
