Effects of laser on subdermal fat tissue

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
Demand from the general public has led to the development of laser-assisted lipolysis. We designed a working protocol to assess the clinical results of a new laser-assisted lipolysis system, SlimLipo™.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
We studied 500 areas treated with laser-assisted lipolysis. Dosimetry was established and heating was assessed using thermographic photography. Pre- and postfat thickness in the treatment area was measured using ultrasonography. We assessed tightening, firmness, and regularity. Patients were questioned about tolerance, downtime, effectiveness, and fulfillment of expectations.

RESULTS
In most cases, the SlimLipo™ laser enabled us to achieve a 50% reduction in the thickness of the fatty tissue. A satisfactory response was obtained in all the parameters assessed, and patients were satisfied with the skin response and with the volume reduction too. Most patients considered the procedure very tolerable and were satisfied with the results, and more than 80% felt that their expectations had been met.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
Laser-assisted lipolysis is a technique that is still being developed. We arbitrarily set our dose considering that a 924 nm wavelength is absorbed by fat seven times more than a 1064 nm wavelength. Further studies are necessary to improve dosimetry with this device. Tightening, firmness, and regularity were satisfactory in most patients. Patients were very satisfied with regard to tolerance, pain, downtime, results, and fulfillment of expectations. In summary, we believe that this new laser is a safe and minimally invasive option for satisfactory correction of contour and volume.