Several lasers are used for lipolysis – a recognized technique for fat reduction. It has been demonstrated that (i) fat liquefaction is induced through a temperature elevation of the adipocyte cells, and (ii) fat volume reduction depends on total cumulative energy delivered at the treatment site. Which wavelength (920nm, 980nm, 1064nm, 1320nm, and 1440nm) is the best?

Studies and substantial anecdotal evidence show that the penetration depth of wavelengths between 900 and 1320nm is very similar – around 1.5mm. The only minor difference is at 1440nm, which is more absorbed by subcutaneous fat. The irreversibly damaged volume of tissue is also similar for wavelengths between 920 and 1320nm. Practitioners obtain the total of about 4cm3 with 3750J delivered to the tissue.

With laser lipolysis, thermal elevation of a given volume can be obtained provided that the penetration depth remains in this nominal range. This explains why similar end results can be obtained using 920nm, 980nm, 1064nm, and 1320nm. Thermal build-up is the main factor behind adipocytolysis and skin contraction. Successful outcomes are dependent primarily on the movement of the optical fiber inside the tissue and even and stable delivery of the laser energy. It’s the hands of the surgeon that truly make a difference!

Doctor Roger Bassin of The Bassin Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Orlando, FL is one of few surgeons in Florida, who does water and laser assisted awake lipolysis.

Here is how he does it (the smart combo lipolysis):

1. Small incisions in targeted numbed areas (e.g. abdomen and love handles).

2. Water spray into the area (in his words: “With traditional liposuction, the stuff everyone sees on TV with the doctor literally going back and forth, what you’re doing is making mashed potatoes out of somebody”). Instead of using harsh motions to dislodge fat, the water gently breaks it up. You could call it the lipo dissolve stage.

3. Getle suction of fat: “The way I can describe it is almost like playing the violin, very gentle,” says Dr. Bassin.

4. Laser treatment to tighten skin and melt away leftover fat.
With this new procedure, there’s less bruising, swelling and trauma to the nerves, muscles and skin. It costs about $3000, which is less than standard lipo because patients don’t require general anesthesia.

“The patient’s going to drive themselves to the office, get the procedure done, drive themselves home, go back to work that day or the next day.”

This is what I can call truly smart lipo.

Happy lipo, everybody!

• More about laser lipolysis on LaserOffers.com
• Watch lipo videos

This is our most recent (constantly updated) collection of video materials demonstrating laser assisted lipolysis, laser lipo and smart lipo.