Laser Liposuction:
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat from different areas of the body. Until recently, the only option available was the traditional method, which used a stainless steel tube, called a cannula, to loosen the unwanted fat before it was removed.
Laser liposuction is an innovative, new procedure that uses a laser to essentially, loosen and melt the fat cells before removal. There are several types of laser liposuction available, such as SmartLipo VASER, and other alternatives to traditional lipo such as Tumescent Liposuction, which are becoming increasingly popular alternatives to the traditional surgery.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?
Laser liposuction became FDA approved in 2006, and since then, patients and surgeons alike have found many advantages to this procedure when compared with traditional liposuction:

• It is safer. While general anesthesia is used during traditional liposuction, only a local anesthetic is necessary during laser liposuction.
• There is the potential for less loose skin after surgery. Because laser liposuction promotes collagen production, the overlaying skin is much tighter and firmer when compared to skin after traditional liposuction. These results are usually seen within 3-6 months

• Laser liposuction is less invasive than traditional liposuction, so there is not as much bleeding, swelling, and tissue damage involved. There is also less pain and general discomfort with this procedure.
• Recovery time is reduced. While traditional liposuction can take weeks to recover from, many patients can return to work only days after undergoing laser liposuction.
CANDIDATES:
Good candidates for laser liposuction or other less invasive forms of lipo include, healthy individuals who have one or more specific areas of the body with excess fat, that have not responded well to diet and exercise. They should be within 25 pounds of their ideal weight, and have realistic expectations for their post surgical results. Individuals with heart disease, certain skin conditions, diabetes, or other health problems may not be eligible surgery. Just like any cosmetic surgery, it is extremely important to discuss all health issues with a qualified surgeon before undergoing laser liposuction.

Patients considering laser-assisted lipo should also take the time to discuss the benefits of a popular procedure known as Tumescent Liposuction, and how this procedure may even provide better before and after results.