Non-invasive body contouring is a relatively new treatment option for individuals looking to reduce fat and take years off their skin’s appearance. As such, people considering this option often have questions about how it works, how long it lasts, and which situations sustain the best results.

Let’s briefly explore laser lipolysis to answer a few of these questions.

Basics of Laser Body Contouring

Laser lipolysis is a non-invasive body contouring procedure that can reshape specific areas of the body and reduce excess skin or fat. Many patients seek this kind of treatment to enhance the texture and appearance of “trouble” spots, like those around the abdomen, thighs, arms, or neck.

This type of body contouring is often desirable because, unlike traditional liposuction, it doesn’t require incisions or drains and doesn’t come with significant downtime for recovery.

How Does It Work?

Laser lipolysis utilizes a machine with a wand-like device to emit low-level cold laser energy into targeted tissues. The hand-held tool rolls over a patient’s skin and, in doing so, uses a laser to break down fat cells so that the body can absorb them. The cells are then processed as a waste product and eliminated permanently. 

The laser energy also works to lift the treatment area. When fat cells break down, the skin and surrounding tissues tighten and smooth out for a healthier, more youthful aesthetic.

Ideal Body Contouring Candidates

Some patients seek body contouring after major weight loss to lift and tighten the loose skin left behind. While significantly sagging skin may require surgery, patients with mild to moderate skin loosening may find body contouring effective.

Ideally, a body contouring patient will seek this treatment to perfect the appearance of areas that exercise hasn’t repaired. Good examples are cellulite, loose neck skin, and troublesome fat deposits that won’t go away.

Body contouring is not an ideal solution for overall weight loss. Instead, it works to supplement an already effective diet and exercise regimen.

How Long Does Body Contouring Last?

Non-invasive body contouring produces long-term results in general. Laser lipolysis is designed to last for years or even decades. However, body contouring doesn’t make weight gain impossible in the future. Though the results of this procedure are permanent, sustaining them requires work on the patient’s part. Keeping a healthy diet, getting adequate exercise, and practicing effective skincare is necessary to reduce the chances of storing fat or experiencing further skin loosening.

If you’re curious about body contouring procedures and want to determine whether this type of treatment is appropriate for your cosmetic goals, reach out to your healthcare provider. This way, you can ask questions and take the steps you see fit.