Laser-Assisted Liposuction
Laser-assisted liposuction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses controlled laser energy to break down localised fat before it is physically removed through small incisions. Performed under local anaesthetic, it can contour the tummy, back and area beneath the chin, reducing unwanted fullness while allowing greater precision through smaller treatment points and limited downtime.
- Targeted fat removal
- Body and chin contouring
- Small incisions
- Minimal downtime
- Local anaesthetic
- The treatment area is numbed for comfort during the procedure
- Often one procedure
- The approach depends on the area and extent of treatment
- Progressive definition
- Early contour changes become clearer as swelling settles
- Recovery support
- A faja is worn for two weeks, supported by clinical red and near-infrared light therapy
Dr. Steph on laser-assisted liposuction
How it works
Laser energy prepares the fat for removal
After the area is numbed, a fine laser fibre is introduced beneath the skin through a small incision. The laser delivers controlled energy to break down targeted fat deposits.
The treated fat is then removed using suction. This physically reduces fat in the area, rather than relying only on the body to clear it gradually.
Contouring with attention to the skin
The laser’s heat can also encourage tissue contraction and collagen remodelling. This may help the skin adapt to the reduced volume, although the degree of tightening varies.
Skin elasticity matters. Significant excess skin may need a different procedure to achieve the result you want.
Planned around your anatomy
We assess the thickness and distribution of fat, skin firmness and the surrounding contours before recommending treatment. The aim is a balanced reduction that suits the area.
What it treats
Tummy fullness
Localised abdominal fat can remain despite consistent exercise and healthy habits. Liposuction can reduce fat beneath the skin to improve the tummy’s contour.
It does not remove the deeper visceral fat around internal organs or repair separated abdominal muscles.
Back fat
Selected pockets of fat across the back can contribute to fullness and visible rolls. Treatment can reduce these deposits to refine the area’s contour.
Fullness beneath the chin
Chin liposuction targets suitable fat deposits beneath the chin to improve definition between the lower face and neck.
We assess whether fullness comes from fat, loose skin or your underlying anatomy, because these require different approaches.
Treatment & results
Planning your procedure
Some areas can be treated during one procedure, while more extensive or multi-area plans may need to be staged. The length of your appointment depends on the area, the amount of fat being removed and the treatment plan.
Your consultation includes an assessment of your medical history, the area you would like to treat and the result you are hoping to achieve. We’ll explain the proposed procedure, expected recovery and whether laser-assisted liposuction is appropriate for you.
When results become visible
You may notice an early change in contour, but swelling can temporarily obscure the result. Definition becomes clearer over the following weeks as swelling decreases, with further settling and tissue remodelling continuing over several months.
Your follow-up appointments allow us to monitor healing, assess the developing contour and guide your return to normal activity.
Keeping your result
The fat cells physically removed during liposuction do not grow back. However, the fat cells remaining in the treated area and elsewhere in the body can enlarge with weight gain.
Maintaining a stable weight and consistent healthy habits helps preserve the result. Laser-assisted liposuction is a contouring procedure rather than a treatment for overall weight loss.
Aftercare
The first few days
Swelling, bruising, tenderness, firmness and temporary numbness can occur after treatment. The amount of recovery required depends on the area treated and the extent of the procedure.
You will receive instructions covering:
- How to care for the small incision sites and dressings
- When and how to wear your compression garment
- Which medications have been recommended for you
- When you may shower and resume your usual skincare
- When you can return to work, exercise and other activities
- The timing of your follow-up appointments
Gentle walking is generally encouraged, but strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and pressure on the treated area should be avoided until you are cleared by the medical team.
Compression and contour support
You will need to wear a compression garment, commonly called a faja, for two weeks after your procedure. The faja supports the treated tissue and helps manage swelling while the area begins to heal and take shape.
We’ll explain how the garment should fit, how long to wear it each day and when it can be removed. It should feel supportive without causing excessive pain, numbness, restricted breathing or deep marks in the skin. Contact our team if you are concerned about the fit.
Clinical red and near-infrared light support
Clinical red and near-infrared light therapy may be incorporated into your recovery plan. This non-invasive treatment is used as an adjunct to support tissue recovery, manage inflammation and assist the body’s natural healing processes after the procedure.
Relax Med uses clinical light therapy as part of its postoperative support rather than manual lymphatic drainage. It complements, but does not replace, your compression garment, gentle movement, incision care and scheduled medical reviews.
As your contour develops
The area may feel firm or temporarily uneven while swelling is present. This does not necessarily represent the final contour.
Definition becomes clearer as the swelling decreases and the tissues settle. Attend your planned reviews and avoid judging the final result during the early recovery period.
When to contact us
Contact our team promptly if you experience increasing pain, worsening redness or warmth, fever, foul-smelling or unusual drainage, increasing swelling, an opening at an incision site or any other unexpected change.
Seek emergency medical attention for chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, coughing up blood or sudden pain or swelling in one leg.
Focused training. Thoughtful technique.
Dr. Sommer-Jo Olliviere travelled to Colombia for dedicated training in laser-assisted liposuction, learning techniques focused on precision, patient comfort and recovery. That training informs her approach, from planning the treatment area to carrying out the procedure and guiding your aftercare.
Frequently asked questions
Is laser-assisted liposuction a weight-loss procedure?
No. It is intended to reduce selected pockets of fat and improve contour. It does not treat obesity or replace nutrition, exercise or medical weight-management care. The best candidates are generally near a stable weight and have a localised area that remains out of proportion with the surrounding body.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs the treatment area. You may remain awake and may feel movement or pressure, but the area should not feel sharp pain. Tell the medical team immediately if you experience discomfort during treatment.
How much downtime should I expect?
Recovery depends on the area treated, the extent of fat removal and your individual response. Many patients can return to lighter daily activities relatively quickly, but swelling, bruising and soreness can continue while the area heals. We’ll give you a more specific recovery estimate after assessing the treatment area.
Does the laser tighten loose skin?
The laser’s heat may encourage tissue contraction and collagen remodelling, which can support the skin as the volume beneath it is reduced. The amount of tightening varies and cannot be guaranteed. Laser-assisted liposuction is not a substitute for surgical skin removal when significant loose or excess skin is present.
Are the results permanent?
The fat cells removed during the procedure do not return. However, remaining fat cells can become larger if you gain weight, which can change the contour. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve the result.
Will I have scars?
The procedure requires small entry points for the laser fibre and suction cannula. These usually leave small scars that can become less noticeable as they mature, although every incision can leave a permanent mark and healing varies between patients.
Why is clinical red and near-infrared light used after treatment?
It may be used as a non-invasive addition to your recovery plan to support comfort, inflammation management and tissue healing. It does not replace compression, incision care, movement or follow-up appointments, and individual response varies.
What are the risks?
As with any surgical procedure, risks can include bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation, burns, contour irregularities, asymmetry, changes in sensation, scarring, delayed healing, blood clots and complications related to anaesthetic or medication. Your consultation and consent process will explain the relevant risks, alternatives and expected recovery before you decide whether to proceed.
Is laser-assisted liposuction suitable for everyone?
Suitability depends on your health, medical history, medications, skin elasticity, the location of the fat and the result you want. It may not be recommended for people with certain medical conditions, unstable weight or expectations that the procedure cannot safely achieve.
Contour the area that has not responded to your efforts.
If a persistent pocket beneath the chin, across the tummy or along the back remains despite your usual routine, we’ll assess whether it is caused primarily by removable fat, skin laxity or another structural factor. From there, we can determine whether laser-assisted liposuction offers the level of correction you want and guide you through the procedure and recovery with a clear medical plan.