Laser Liposuction to Remove Pockets of Body Fat

Unwanted pockets of body fat not responding to diet and exercise may be frustrating for those in the Cerritos, California community as well as in other parts of the country. Many seek treatments such as liposuction to remove these pockets of body fat, although traditional liposuction may be invasive and require a long recovery period. More patients are turning to laser liposuction to remove fat through laser technology instead. The procedure is much less invasive in most cases, and has been shown to be very effective in not only dissolving unwanted fat, but also tightening the skin in the area.

A general anesthetic is not required for treatment, only a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. A pen-like device is used to fire the laser near the skin. This breaks up the fat cells in the area, and any fluid released from the cells will be absorbed by the body. There is less bleeding and swelling with this procedure as the blood vessels coagulate when exposed to the laser energy. The collagen production of the skin is also affected, which results in tighter skin the area. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes to perform.

Before treatment, it's important that patients speak with a Cerritos cosmetic specialist to go over their candidacy for the procedure to determine if it's for them. Those in good health who are not overweight or obese may be candidates. Patients should lead an active lifestyle with pockets of body fat that are not responding to diet and exercise. The treatment may be used on fat pockets at the waist, chin, hips, buttocks, upper arms, thighs, male breasts, back of the neck, pubic mound, or even the face (although not around the eyes). Those with diabetes or liver, blood, kidney, heart, or skin problems may not be considered candidates for the procedure. 

Following the procedure, patients may experience minimal bruising, although the procedure is typically pain-free during the actual process. A dressing and compression bandage may be applied depending on the area that was just treated. It is intended to aid the healing process and reduce swelling. Most notice that any bruising goes away after a few days, and most resume their normal activities or return to work after about a day. Patients may turn to over-the-counter pain medication to relieve any discomfort or mild aches, although they should first check with their physician to ensure it is safe to do so.

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