Body contouring continues to be a popular procedure across the United States, with recent data showing a rise of 6 percent in liposuction procedures from 2022 to 2023. As popular as surgical fat reduction is, however, it’s not the only choice. Patients who want to slim down specific areas—but who want to avoid the downsides associated with surgery—can choose LipoLift™ at the Portlandarea’s Aesthetic Medicine. This minimally invasive option is ideal for anyone who wants to look up to 20 pounds lighter.
What is the difference between traditional liposuction and LipoLif™? Here’s a look at a few details that set the procedures apart.
Incision Size
A traditional liposuction procedure requires the creation of an incision large enough for the insertion of a metal tube, known as a cannula. This tube is used to manually break up the fat cells in the target area, then to suction them out. LipoLift™ uses a small laser instead of a metal tube to break up the fat, then suctions the unwanted material out through a micro-cannula. All of this requires an incision with a diameter no larger than a cocktail straw.
Freeing Fat
As noted above, the standard method for breaking up fat cells in the traditional way is dislodging them with a metal tube. Although this strategy works well, it also results in numerous side effects—including bruises, post-surgical swelling, and longer-lasting pain and discomfort. The anesthesia necessary for this approach also carries its own risks and side effects. LipoLift™ is a much gentler strategy that requires only local anesthetic.
Recovery Time
Since LipoLift™ is more gentle than the surgical alternative, the recovery period after is also minimized. No sutures are needed to close the small incisions, so healing goes more quickly. In general, our patients only take about a day for rest and recuperation after the procedure.
Want to learn more about LipoLift™, developed by Dr. Jerry Darm and Dr. Amie Zawacki? Reach out to Aesthetic Medicine Physicians and Surgeons in Portland. Contact the team online or call 503.907.9605 to set up a consultation!