Seattle, Bellevue What are the benefits of laser liposuction? Cathy V.

Hi Cathy, a mild laser is run all over your body that melts the fat and converts it into liquid form, so that it can be drained from the body through the small dissections with the help of a vacuum pump. Laser liposuction, differs from traditional liposuction in that laser technology is used to remove fat under the skin whereas in traditional liposuction, more intrusive surgery is used. Liposuction can either be internal or external. In internal liposuction, laser is attached to a suction device which is then inserted in the area to be operated using a fiber optic probe. External liposuction on the other hand involves the use of a laser pen or pad outside the body. Laser liposuction is less intrusive when compared to traditional liposuction. Patients therefore experience less trauma on areas here the procedure is applied and this means less scaring and a shorter recovery time. Laser liposuction coagulates blood in the areas where the procedure is being carried out. This means that patients do not lose a lot of blood during the operation. Blood coagulation also eliminates excessive swelling normally associated with this procedure. And the fact that small incisions are made during laser liposuction reduces the likelihood of infection.