Laser liposuction is a surgical procedure that uses laser energy to liquefy and remove fat cells from various areas of the body. In this article, weโll go into details about what you need to know about laser liposuction, including its pros, cons, risks and recovery time.
Weโll also compare it to Vaser liposuction, a more advanced fat removal method that uses ultrasound technology for a more targeted solution. By understanding the differences between the two liposuction methods, you can make an informed decision about which procedure might be right for you.

Before & after stomach Vaser lipo (6 weeks post-op)
What is Laser Liposuction?
Laser liposuction is a type of liposuction that uses laser energy to liquefy fat cells before removing them. Unlike traditional liposuction, which mechanically breaks up and suctions out fat, laser liposuction liquefies the fat to make it easier to remove. The laser may also help to tighten the skin. This technique is typically chosen by patients because it is designed to reduce bleeding and bruising, potentially leading to a faster recovery time.
The Procedure
During the procedure, a small incision is made and a thin laser fibre is inserted into the targeted area for fat removal. The laser energy liquefies the fat cells and also helps tighten the skin.
The procedure is typically done under local anaesthesia, so you’ll be awake but shouldnโt feel any pain in the treated areas. Recovery is typically quick, with most people returning to their normal activities within a few days to a week.
Ideal Candidate for Laser Liposuction
- People close to their ideal weight
- Individuals with stubborn fat areas that don’t respond to diet and exercise
- Those looking for mild to moderate fat reduction
- Generally healthy individuals
- Non-smokers, or those willing to quit before and after the procedure
- No serious medical conditions that could impair healing
- Realistic expectations about the results offered from laser liposuction
Potential Risks & Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Swelling: Itโs not uncommon to have some swelling in the treated area, which should go down after a few weeks.
- Bruising: You might see some bruising, but it usually fades on its own.
- Discomfort: Mild pain or discomfort is common, but you can manage it with over-the-counter painkillers.
- Numbness: Feeling a bit numb in the treated area isnโt uncommon and usually goes away with time.
- Fluid Drainage: You might notice a little fluid draining from the tiny incisions for a few days.
Rare But Serious Risks
- Infection: Although itโs rare, infections can happen and may need antibiotics to treat.
- Skin Burns: The laser can cause skin burns if not used correctly.
- Nerve Damage: Rarely, you might experience nerve damage, leading to prolonged numbness or tingling.
- Blood Clots: Thereโs a small risk of blood clots, which can be serious if they move to other parts of your body.
- Uneven Fat Removal: Sometimes, the fat removal might be uneven, causing a lumpy or uneven appearance.
Why Vaser Liposuction is the Better Fat Removal Choice
Vaser liposuction is a cutting-edge fat removal technique that uses ultrasound technology to break down fat cells before removing them. This method is regarded for its effectiveness in targeting stubborn fat with minimal discomfort and even quicker recovery times than laser lipo.
Before & after stomach Vaser lipo (6 weeks post-op)
Key Differences Between Laser & Vaser Lipo
Technology
- Laser Liposuction: Uses laser energy to liquify fat cells.
- Vaser Liposuction: Utilises ultrasound waves to liquefy fat cells, making them easier to be removed.
Precision
- Laser Liposuction: Can be effective but sometimes leads to uneven results.
- Vaser Liposuction: Generally offers more precise fat removal, leading to smoother and more consistent outcomes.
Skin Tightening
- Laser Liposuction: Helps tighten the skin due to the heat generated by the laser.
- Vaser Liposuction: Also promotes skin tightening by stimulating collagen production with ultrasound energy.
Method of Fat Removal
- Laser Liposuction: Involves making small incisions and using a laser fibre to liquify the fat, which is then suctioned out.
- Vaser Liposuction: Uses a small probe inserted through tiny incisions to emit ultrasound waves, breaking down the fat cells. The liquefied fat is then suctioned out, potentially causing less damage to surrounding tissues.
Recovery Times
- Laser Liposuction: Recovery typically takes a few days to a week, with some swelling and bruising.
Vaser Liposuction: Often results in a quicker recovery, with less swelling and bruising, allowing you to return to normal activities sooner.
Effectiveness for Different Body Areas
- Laser Liposuction: Effective for targeting stubborn fat in areas like the abdomen, thighs, and arms, with some skin tightening benefits.
- Vaser Liposuction: Equally effective for these areas but offers more precision for smaller or more delicate areas like the chin and neck. Itโs particularly good for areas with denser or more fibrous fat.
Before & after chin Vaser lipo (6 weeks post-op)
Pros and Cons: Laser vs. Laser
Laser Liposuction | Vaser Liposuction | |
Precision | Effective, but can sometimes lead to uneven results | Highly precise with smoother, more consistent outcomes |
Skin Tightening | Offers skin tightening benefits due to laser heat | Promotes skin tightening through collagen stimulation |
Recovery Time | A few days to a week, with some swelling and bruising | Quicker recovery, with less swelling and bruising |
Body Areas | Effective for larger areas like abdomen, thighs, and arms | Effective for both large areas and smaller, delicate areas like chin and neck |
Technology | Uses laser energy to liquify fat | Uses ultrasound waves to liquefy fat |
Side Effects | Potential for minor burns and skin discoloration | Less trauma to surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of complications |
By looking at these differences, itโs clear why Vaser liposuction stands out. Its advanced technology allows for more precise fat removal and quicker recovery, making it a great choice for those seeking effective results with minimal downtime.
Before & after back Vaser lipo (6 weeks post-op)
Laser Liposuction FAQs
How long do laser lipo results last?
The results of laser liposuction can last a long time, especially if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. The fat cells that are removed donโt come back, but if you gain weight, new fat can develop.
How much fat can laser lipo remove?
Laser liposuction can safely remove about 2 to 5 litres of fat per session. The exact amount depends on your individual needs and what your surgeon recommends as safe.
Does laser lipo flatten your stomach?
Laser liposuction may help flatten your stomach by removing excess fat and tightening the skin. It works best for people who are close to their ideal weight but have specific areas of fat they canโt get rid of with diet and exercise.
What is the recovery time for laser liposuction?
Recovery time is usually short. Most people can get back to their normal activities within a few days, although you might have some swelling and bruising for a couple of weeks. Full recovery and seeing the final results can take a few months.
Is laser liposuction painful?
Laser liposuction is typically done under local anaesthesia, so you wonโt feel pain during the procedure. You might have some soreness and discomfort during recovery, but over-the-counter pain relievers usually help manage this.
How soon can I see results after laser liposuction?
Youโll start to see some results right away, but the full effect becomes more visible as the swelling goes down. This usually takes a few weeks to a few months.
How do I decide between Vaser and laser lipo?ย
Both laser and Vaser liposuction are effective, but at Levant, we favour Vaser lipo above all other methods. Vaser uses ultrasound waves to break down fat, leading to smoother results and quicker recovery. It’s more precise, which is ideal for large and small target areas, and offers skin tightening benefits.
Read more
- Explaining How Vaser Liposuction 360 Works
- An Overview of Liposuction Types & Their Costs (2024)
- Understanding the Costs of Liposuction in Australia (2024)