Laser lipo is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure that reduces fat and tightens skin. It’s used to treat areas like the thighs and upper arms. It also helps with stubborn pockets of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise. The process works by killing off the fat cells, which are then naturally absorbed and processed away.

It’s important to talk to your doctor before getting this procedure. They will help you understand how it works and whether it’s right for you. They can also recommend other treatments that may be more effective than laser lipo.

The procedure can take up to an hour per area. It may take longer if the treatment area is larger. The results are usually visible immediately after the session. You’ll see the full effect after a few months.

During the procedure, you’ll be awake, but your clinician will numb the area with a needle and local anesthetic so that you don’t feel any pain. Then they’ll make a small cut, and insert a laser under the skin that liquefies the fat. After that, they’ll insert a tube that sucks up the melted fat. The procedure is done in a doctor’s office and doesn’t require you to stay overnight at the hospital.

You might experience some swelling, bruising or pain in the area. However, this is normal and should only last a few days. You may also feel a slight tightening of the skin. This is caused by the production of collagen that the laser treatment triggers.

The noninvasive procedure is much quicker and more painless than surgical lipo. You won’t have to stay at the hospital overnight, either. It takes about half an hour, and you can return to your normal activities straight away. The process is done by a qualified doctor who will use paddle-like applicators to treat the area. The heat from the applicators damages the membranes of the fat cells, which causes them to die and then your body naturally absorbs them.

For people with a little more weight to lose, surgical lipo is an option. This is a minimally invasive surgery that can be performed by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.

It’s also a good choice for women who have unwanted breast tissue. During the procedure, a specialist can remove excess breast tissue and improve the shape of your chest.

Regardless of which type of lipo laser you choose, it’s important to find a doctor with years of experience performing the procedure. This will ensure you’re receiving safe and effective treatment that doesn’t cause any complications. It’s also a good idea to read reviews of doctors before choosing one to perform the procedure. You can also ask for referrals from friends and family members who have had laser lipo. They’ll be able to tell you what their experiences were like and whether they were happy with the results. It’s also important to consider how much the procedure will cost before deciding to have it done.