Laser-Assisted Liposuction Using a Novel Blend of Lipid- and Water-Selective Wavelengths

Background and Objectives: Potential benefits of laser-assisted liposuction include enhanced body shaping and skin tightening with reduced patient downtime. In this clinical study, we investigate whether additional safety and efficacy are achieved with a diode laser system that includes a novel 924 nm lipid-selective wavelength. Study Design/Materials and Methods: Clinical subjects were treated with a continuous-wave (CW) power 924/975 nm diode laser system in the submental area, abdomen, thighs and flanks. Side effects were documented. Efficacy evaluation included investigator-assessed improvements and subject self-assessments. Results: Study investigators observed good to excellent improvement across all subjects (n = 19) by 3 months post-treatment in all four categories evaluated. Facility of tip advancement was rated as "extremely easy" or "easy" in 83% of rated treatments. "Good" to "excellent" skin textural improvement was observed in 83% of rated subjects. Additional benefits included reduced operator fatigue and uniformity of treatment. Patients tolerated the procedure well with minimal and transient side effects. Immediate side effects of erythema, bruising and edema were graded as mild or trace. No long-term side effects were observed. Seventy-eight percent of all subjects were extremely satisfied with the procedure and 89% would do the procedure again. Eighty-nine percent of subjects felt their appearance of unwanted fat was significantly improved with smoother and tighter skin (72%), and 94% would recommend the treatment to family and friends. Conclusion: These clinical findings demonstrate that the 924/975 nm diode laser system provides safe and efficacious body shaping, fat reduction and enhanced skin tightening. Ease of movement through the tissue of both the laser system treatment tip and the aspiration cannula resulted in reduced fatigue for the treating physician. Patient benefits included high patient satisfaction, significant reductions in fat, and smoother and tighter skin with minimal downtime. Lasers Surg. Med. 41.:760-766, 2009. (C) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.