Using an additional step, laser liposuction liquifies the targeted fat before removal with suction, while traditional liposuction uses suction alone.

When it comes to any procedure, one is not necessarily better than the other – it’s all about the preferred technique.

In this blog, we’ll explain how each approach differs and what makes a suitable candidate for each procedure. It’s best to have a one-on-one consultation with an experienced doctor, like Dr Rastogi, to receive specific, personalised advice, based on your own needs and expectations.

What is regular liposuction?

Regular liposuction is where a thin hollow tube (a cannula) is inserted into the fat layer through small incisions. The doctor manually moves the cannula back and forth to break up fat cells and then suctions the fat out of the area with a vacuum. The technique can be used on areas like the abdomen, hips, thighs, back, upper arms, and chin.

An important limitation is that regular liposuction does not tighten skin. If the skin over the treated area does not have sufficient elasticity, it may appear more lax after fat is removed. For this reason, traditional liposuction is usually recommended for patients with good skin laxity who only need fat removed, not skin addressed.

What is laser liposuction?

Laser liposuction, sometimes called laser-assisted liposuction, adds another step to the process by using heat from the laser energy.

The laser energy heats and disrupts fat cells, softening them into a liquid form that can then be more easily suctioned out. Second, the heat interacts with the collagen fibres in the skin and connective tissue, which can stimulate some contraction over time.

After the laser step, the doctor still inserts a cannula and suctions out the liquefied fat, much like in traditional liposuction. In other words, it’s still a surgical procedure, but the added laser step changes how the fat is broken up and may have a mild secondary effect on the skin.

How does laser liposuction feel different?

Some patients notice a difference in recovery between the two techniques, although healing is still a gradual process with either. Sometimes, bruising and swelling may be somewhat less pronounced with laser-assisted liposuction compared to traditional. However, this is not guaranteed, and results vary depending on the area treated, the amount of fat removed, and your own healing response.

It’s also important to understand that the skin-tightening effect of laser liposuction is typically quite mild, meaning that if you have a moderate to higher level of excess skin in the targeted area, the approach may not be the most suitable choice. In these cases, another surgical approach which may include removing excess skin may be more sufficient.

Who is suitable for each type of procedure?

Regular liposuction can still be considered the standard for patients who want to address fat pockets in multiple different areas. Generally, those who have good skin elasticity tend to be more suitable, due to the non-tightening nature of the method.

Laser liposuction may be a better fit for patients who have mild skin laxity that the laser energy may tighten, and who don’t have any implants in the treatment area that could be contraindications to laser treatments.

For both procedures, patients will need to be in good health and have realistic expectations. A health screening should always be done before undergoing the procedure, and it’s important to understand the results that the procedure can achieve.

While each method targets fat deposits, neither is considered to be a weight loss procedure. This is one of the most common misconceptions of liposuction.

How a consultation can help

A consultation is important before any type of procedure. It’s important to ensure that the procedure is a suitable choice for you and that it is designed to address your needs.

Your consultation will also help you learn about how the procedure is performed, what to do before the procedure to prepare, and what to expect after the procedure. You will be able to discuss preparation, procedure and recovery steps in direct relation to your individual needs. You’ll also be able to ask all of your questions and gain clarity on any area of the process.

A health screening will also be an important step. Dr Rastogi will need to ask about your health history, including past surgeries, current health, and factors like how your body typically responds to scarring. While the incisions used for liposuction are quite small, it’s normal for any procedure that requires incision to leave scarring to some level.

A consultation also helps you get to know your cosmetic doctor and understand the process from start to finish.

Dr Rastogi: Cosmetic Doctor in Double Bay, Sydney

Rather than trying to decide whether laser liposuction is better than regular liposuction, it’s more helpful to think of them as two different approaches. Which one may be better for you depends on what you want to achieve and other individual physical factors.

You are welcome to meet with Dr Rastogi in Double Bay, Sydney, for a consultation and to discuss your personal goals, health factors, and other physical factors.

Please contact our team to discuss how to book your consultation or to ask any questions about the process.

Read more about liposuction:

Is Laser Lipo Better Than Regular Liposuction?