Non-invasive lipo is an alternative to surgical liposuction and uses lasers or ultrasonic sound waves to melt or liquefy fat in the body. Both methods work selectively on the fat cells without affecting neighboring cells in the body. The procedure may be used to reconstruct the appearance of various body parts and is not recommended for massive removal of fat. Depending on the procedure a patient chooses, skin may be tucked to avoid the excess hanging resulting from fat removal. Persons who undergo this procedure have little to no recovery period and can usually resume their daily activities almost immediately.
The laser method liquefies fat prior to removal from the body reducing the need for the harsh suction that accompanies traditional liposuction. The strength of the laser is differentiated by the wavelength of light used and depends on the amount of fat needed to be removed. Laser liposuction is performed either internally or externally. In the internal method, lasers are attached to the suction device while the external method is used outside the body before suction begins.
Ultrasound technologies are another popular way to perform fat-removal surgeries and may be done internally or externally. This method of non-invasive lipo transmits concentrated ultrasonic sound waves into the fat layer of the skin, breaking down the fat cells. As a result, triglycerides are released from the fat cells. The fat cells are then expelled from the body, resulting in a loss of inches or centimeters to the affected area.
Treatment areas for non-invasive lipo include parts of the face such as the cheeks, the area around the chin, and excess fat on the neck. In the upper body, the treatment is used to remove excess fat off of the upper arms, back, or belly. The procedure is particularly effective at removing excess breast tissue in men, also known as gynecomastia. The hips, thighs, and buttocks are common areas in the lower body where liposuction is performed. Some people even have the excess fat around the pubic area removed using this method.
Non-invasive lipo is less costly than other methods of fat removal, averaging anywhere from $700 US Dollars (USD) to $2,200 USD depending on the location of the fat. After surgery, there is a visible reduction in the circumference of the treated area with few complications or risks to the health of the patient. Laser surgeries stimulate the natural production of collagen in the body, which helps to tighten the skin, reducing post surgical sagging. It also cauterizes ruptured blood vessels, which reduce post-surgical bleeding and bruising. The ultrasonic method focuses the waves of light, which limits the damage done to surrounding bodily tissues.