A Retrospective Analysis of the Postoperative Course of Patients Receiving Suction-Assisted Liposuction versus Laser Lipolysis

Abstract

Background and Objective:

The popularity of laser lipolysis has continued to increase, and with this, a proliferation of instruments from various manufacturers has occurred. This study is a retrospective analysis comparing 28 patients who underwent laser lipolysis vs. 18 patients who had suction-assisted liposuction (SAL) alone.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred patients who had liposuction procedures between October 2006 and August 2008 were randomly selected to receive a patient questionnaire that investigated each person's postoperative course. Fifty patients had SAL alone and 50 patients had laser lipolysis in addition to SAL. Results were tabulated and compared.

Results:

28 patients who had received laser lipolysis and 18 patients who had received SAL alone completed the questionnaire. Postoperative morbidity seen as swelling, pain, ecchymoses, and dysesthesias was reported more commonly and to a greater degree in laser lipolysis patients. Final results and patient satisfaction were rated higher in patients who received laser lipolysis.

Conclusion:

Laser lipolysis is increasing in popularity, and reports of risks and benefits will be forthcoming. Although morbidity of patients treated with laser lipolysis appears to be greater when compared with patients undergoing SAL alone, patients who experienced laser lipolysis were more likely to describe greater satisfaction with their results, would tend to undergo the procedure again if needed, and would tend to refer a friend for this procedure.