Liposuction has become an intensely popular cosmetic procedure. This should be no surprise in view of the staggering statistics on obesity and our inactive life styles. Liposuction is the surgical removal of fat cells through a stainless steel suction tube called a cannula. It has a similar shape to a vacuum cleaner attachment.
Laser assisted liposuction is in its very early stages. Liposuction has been around since 1974 but laser assisted liposuction was only introduced in 2007 but is catching on as an improvement to the traditional procedures. In truth, laser lipo involves the combination of using the laser along with the traditional liposuction procedure. The two work together.
Other variations of liposuction include water-assisted liposuction and ultrasound-assisted liposuction.
Laser lipo is usually performed as outpatient surgery with nothing but local anesthesia. Sedation anesthesia may be called for depending on the extent of the fat to be removed. If the area to be treated is the buttocks and thigh area then sedation may be considered.
First a mixture of saline and local anesthetic is put under the skin. The laser is then used to heat the skin cells which in turn stimulate and encourages the production of collagen. This will result in an improvement of the skin's appearance. Lasers also will coagulate small blood vessels which helps depreciate bruising.
Liposuction or the removal of cellulite should not be looked at as a cure to obesity. You are considered a good candidate for this cosmetic procedure if you are of normal weight; you have healthy, elastic skin; and have specific "trouble areas" that have not responded positively to changes you've made to your diet and exercise regimen.
Laser lipo can be used on many different areas. It is most popular for the thighs, midsection, arms, face, and neck areas. For men it is most commonly used to treat gynecomastia or "man breasts" which can cause great humiliation to males.
Even though a laser is used, the laser liposuction procedure is still considered a surgical procedure. As with all surgical procedures, you should be aware of all possible consequences and possible risks involved. The risks related to laser lipo are identical to traditional liposuction surgery. The largest consequence is an irregularity in the contour of the skin after the procedure. It is hard to achieve completely smooth shaping. Expectations must be practical and realistic.
There is also a slight chance of fluid collecting beneath the skin. Other possible consequences include blisters, burns, scarring and as with any surgery, a risk of infection.
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Angela Smithers is a freelance contributor for Fix It With Laser. If you're searching for more information connected to laser lipo then you'll unearth excellent help about cosmetic procedures using laser on our website.