Risks of Laser Lipo – Why Choose Power-Assisted Liposuction?

Posted on [post_date] [post_comments] [post_edit]

Is Laser Liposuction Risky? Benefits of PAL Lipo

Are you considering cosmetic surgery to transform how you look? Among the numerous options available, liposuction stands out as a highly sought-after procedure to sculpt your body.

Traditional liposuction is a well-known technique that uses suction to remove excess fat from specific areas of your body. However, the world of cosmetic surgery is continuously evolving, and with it, new approaches to liposuction are emerging.

A notable advancement is laser liposuction. This method utilises laser energy to liquefy fat cells before they are extracted from the body. Laser lipo is gaining attention because it’s perceived as less invasive than traditional methods. But how does its effectiveness compare with the more conventional techniques?

Join us as we delve deeper into the intricacies of laser lipo, comparing it with other liposuction techniques to give you a comprehensive understanding of this modern cosmetic procedure.

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body. It is particularly effective for eliminating stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise. Common treatment areas include the abdomen, arms, legs, back, and thighs.

This procedure is not intended for weight loss but rather for body contouring and shaping. In the UK, liposuction is extremely popular, with the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) reporting over 40,000 procedures in 2022.

The traditional liposuction technique often requires general anaesthesia, although local anaesthesia might suffice in some cases. It involves small incisions in targeted areas, through which a thin tube called a cannula is inserted to suction out the fat. This approach is strategically used to slim and contour specific body parts.

Power-Assisted Liposuction or PAL Lipo offers an additional advantage: it enables fat transfer and body sculpting. Fat removed from one area can be strategically transferred to enhance other body parts, such as the breasts or buttocks, creating a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

RELATED: SAFE Liposuction vs VASER Liposuction

At Centre for Surgery, expert cosmetic surgeons have honed their skills in power-assisted liposuction, employing specialised techniques and innovative methods. While traditional liposuction yields impressive results, exploring other liposuction methods can offer additional benefits and options to patients.

What Is Laser Lipo?

Laser liposuction, also known as laser lipolysis, is a modern liposuction technique that uses laser energy to remove fat. This method is comparatively new and works by using a very fine fibre optic cable inserted under the skin. The cable transmits laser energy to the fat cells, heating them to approximately 1200 degrees, effectively melting the fat.

Once liquefied, the fat cells are then extracted using a thin cannula, helping to sculpt a slimmer body contour. One of the appealing aspects of laser lipo is its relatively quick procedure time and speedy recovery period.

Regarded as less invasive than traditional liposuction, laser lipo may not always deliver the same results. Research indicates that some patients are dissatisfied with the outcomes of laser lipo. This dissatisfaction can stem from the technique’s potential complications and side effects, such as burning, scarring, uneven skin texture, lumpiness, discolouration, and in severe cases, skin necrosis.

Newer Methods of Liposuction

Laser liposuction has evolved into several distinct types, each with its unique approach and outcomes. Understanding the nuances of each method is key for anyone considering this cosmetic procedure. Let’s explore the different forms of laser liposuction available:

SmartLipo utilises laser energy to liquefy fat cells, which are then removed through a thin cannula, aiming for a toned appearance. It’s favoured for its minimally invasive nature, often requiring just local anaesthesia. However, SmartLipo may not yield the pronounced results seen in traditional liposuction. Its effects are subtler, but there’s a risk of burns and scarring from the laser’s heat. Unlike traditional liposuction, SmartLipo does not allow for fat transfer to other body areas, as the fat cells are liquefied.

VASER Lipo, often associated with laser lipo, actually employs ultrasound technology to dislodge fat cells. This method uses sound energy to loosen fat deposits, which are then removed via a cannula. VASER Lipo is particularly adept at sculpting and enhancing muscle definition, such as in ab etching. While it can create a sculpted appearance, VASER Lipo may not be as effective for removing large fat deposits as traditional liposuction.

AirSculpt, known for its minimal invasiveness, is so quick and straightforward that it’s dubbed "lunchtime lipo." The process begins with a tiny 2mm incision, through which a high-strength numbing solution is introduced. After numbing, a laser is often inserted to melt the fat, which is then suctioned out with an air-powered device manufactured by a Belgian company called Euromi. Like SmartLipo, AirSculpt doesn’t support fat transfer and carries risks of burns and scarring. It’s noted that the results may be less impactful compared to traditional liposuction. These procedures are often performed by doctors who may not be specialist plastic surgeons.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Lipo

Understanding the details and implications of a liposuction procedure is essential before making a decision. Here are some common queries about laser liposuction, answered in straightforward terms:

Laser lipo can successfully remove unwanted fat, but it may not match the effectiveness of traditional liposuction or PAL (Power-Assisted Liposuction). Conventional methods, particularly those involving fat transfer, excel in reshaping the body. They can take fat from problem areas and redistribute it to enhance other parts like the breasts, hips, or buttocks. Some attempts at body contouring with laser lipo might result in uneven results, including asymmetry, dimpling, or lumpiness.

Laser lipo does permanently remove the targeted fat cells. However, it’s important to note that weight gain after the procedure is still possible. Remaining fat cells can expand, leading to weight gain.

The number of laser lipo sessions you require largely depends on the specific method used and your personal goals. If you’re looking to treat several body areas, your treatment might need to be split into multiple sessions.

Specific laser lipo techniques, like SmartLipo, can cause severe skin burns due to the laser energy used to melt fat cells.

The cost of laser liposuction can vary based on the procedure type and location. In high-demand areas like London, the cost can be significant. For instance, SmartLipo in London may cost up to £5000 per session, depending on the body area treated. VASER Lipo, another popular method, could reach around £6000 per session in London, again depending on the treatment area.

Centre for Surgery in London stands out as a premier destination for Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL Lipo). Our expertise, patient-centred approach, and state-of-the-art facilities make us the top choice for those seeking exceptional body contouring services.

Exceptional Expertise and Care Our team of highly skilled surgeons specialises in PAL Lipo, using advanced techniques to ensure optimal results with minimal discomfort. We prioritise your safety and satisfaction, tailoring each procedure to meet your individual needs and aesthetic goals.

Patient Testimonials

Booking a Consultation To learn more or to book a consultation, please contact us:

Additional Resources For further information, explore the following resources:

Discover why Centre for Surgery in London is the leading choice for PAL Lipo, where patient care, expertise, and outstanding results come together to provide an unmatched cosmetic surgery experience.

Call or fill in the form below. A patient coordinator will call you within one working day to book your consultation with the consultant best matched to your enquiry.

—Please choose an option—Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)Facelift / Neck liftOtoplasty (ear surgery)Breast augmentationBreast liftBreast reductionLiposuctionTummy tuckBrazilian Butt Lift (BBL)Mummy makeoverLabiaplasty / Cosmetic gynaecologyGynaecomastia (male breast reduction)FTM / MTF top surgerySkin lesion / mole removalMorpheus8 / Fotona / non-surgicalRevision surgery (any previous procedure)Other / not sure yet




Best time to call you

Morning (9am–12pm)Afternoon (12pm–3pm)Late afternoon (3pm–6pm)Any time

Send me occasional treatment guides, patient stories, and clinic news

I have read and understood the Privacy Policy

Your enquiry is treated in strict confidence. We respond within one working day, Monday to Saturday.

Request a consultation

Filed Under: Body Surgery

Share this post

Primary Sidebar

I agree to receive marketing communications (Read our Privacy Policy)

I agree to receive marketing communications (Read our Privacy Policy)

Centre for Surgery is a CQC-regulated private hospital on London’s Baker Street, delivering plastic and cosmetic surgery through GMC-registered specialist surgeons. Our expertise spans facial procedures including rhinoplasty and facelift surgery, breast surgery, gynaecomastia surgery for men, and body contouring procedures such as liposuction and tummy tuck surgery. Patient safety, surgical excellence and natural-looking results sit at the heart of everything we do.

Centre for Surgery is a CQC-regulated private hospital on London’s iconic Baker Street, offering plastic Birthmarks and blemishes (https://www.abbexa.com/alarelin?srsltid=AfmBOorAMcqt4GsrwO8cT0qH7UFMENW1j3EyRerY8HdpM6-4eqAz2_Tb) cosmetic surgery led by GMC-registered consultant surgeons.

95-97 Baker Street

Marylebone

London

W1U 6RN

Mon – Sat, 9am – 6pm

Saturday consultations available

Book a consultation