Is Laser Liposuction an Option?

When trying to lose weight, some may turn to cosmetic procedures such as liposuction as possible solutions. Unfortunately, liposuction, especially laser liposuction, may not be an option for those who are overweight, obese or unhealthy. Instead, many laser liposuction procedures are intended for healthy individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle and want to get rid of small, isolated pockets of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise.

In Boulder, Colorado and around the nation patients have been discovering the benefits that treatments such as laser liposuction bring. Many physicians turn to lasers instead of the scalpel in some cases due to the precision that lasers may offer surgeons and other medical professionals. Patients who are interested in learning more should speak with a medical professional regarding the use of lasers in procedures such as liposuction.

Laser liposuction procedures work by using energy generated from a laser to dissolve unwanted fat cells. The dissolved or liquefied fat cells may be removed by the physician as part of the procedure, or the physician may allow the body's natural immune system to remove the dissolved fat cells. The various procedures may handle certain aspects of the treatment differently, but the general idea behind laser liposuction is relatively uniform across the board.

What attracts some to laser liposuction as opposed to the traditional method of liposuction is that laser liposuction does not require a general anesthetic in most cases. A local anesthetic may be used to numb the treatment area. Another benefit that attracts many patients is that minimal recovery and downtime is required compared to traditional liposuction techniques.

Deciding if laser liposuction is the right choice may come down to what area needs to be treated. Laser liposuction may be used to treat various areas around the body including the waist, chin, thighs, hips, buttocks, upper arms, face, male breasts, the back of the neck and the pubic mound. Patients should discuss their goals and in which area they require treatment before deciding laser liposuction is the right procedure for them. A consultation with a medical professional may be helpful in obtaining more information regarding this procedure and which areas may be treated.

It is worth pointing out that patients with certain health conditions may not be candidates for this procedure. Those suffering from diabetes, heart conditions, liver problems, blood disorders, kidney problems or skin disorders may not be good candidates for this procedure. Patients should consult a medical professional in the Boulder area to determine their own candidacy for this and any other procedure.

There may be minimal bruising associated with laser liposuction, although the procedure itself is often pain free. A compression garment or a pressure dressing may be required after treatment. Typically, the bruising associated with this procedure is gone within 2 to 3 days and patients are often able to resume normal activities following 24 hours. The recovery time required for each patient may vary. Speaking with a medical professional regarding recovery and downtime is important to the success of the procedure. Patients may be required to avoid strenuous activity in the weeks following treatment.

Patients may also wish to speak to a medical professional about combining laser liposuction with traditional liposuction. As laser liposuction is most effective in treating small pockets of fat, it may be helpful in 'cleaning up' what traditional liposuction may leave behind. If additional contouring is required following traditional liposuction, laser liposuction may be used.

Patients are encouraged to speak with a medical professional at a reputable clinic in the Boulder area before treatment. Those interested should be sure to have their questions answered and concerns addressed before undergoing any procedure.