1000 Consecutive Cases of Laser-Assisted Liposuction Utilizing the 1440 nm Wavelength Nd:YAG Laser: Assessing the Safety and Efficacy

Abstract

Background

Liposuction remains one of the most popular aesthetic surgery procedures performed today, and it has undergone continuous refinements over the past four decades. Advancements in anesthesia, improvements in instrumentation, better understanding of fluid dynamics and the addition of energy to liposuction have led to better outcomes with improved safety and efficacy.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to review 1000 consecutive laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) cases utilizing the 1440 nm wavelength. Emphasis was placed on complication rates and the need for revision procedures.

Methods

The charts of 611 patients who underwent 1000 consecutive LAL operations were reviewed. All cases were performed either under general anesthesia or under local with sedation, and the cases were performed alone or in conjunction with other procedures. All patients went to presurgical testing and had preoperative laboratory and additional clearance by a specialist when indicated. Before and after medical photographs were obtained of all patients. All operations were done in an accredited office-based operating room. Demographic information, tumescent volume, aspirate volume, surgical time, complications and other data were reviewed.

Results

There were one minor complication and no major complications such as burns, hospitalizations or mortalities. One patient developed a small hematoma, which was likely caused by the patient self-aspirating edema fluid during the immediate post-op period. The hematoma resolved with non-surgical management. The average laser energy applied was 15,756 J with an average total aspirate volume of 1256 cc. Fourteen anatomic areas were treated with LAL, and 59 operations were combination cases.

Conclusion

Energy-assisted liposuction using the 1440 nm wavelength has been shown in this series to have a very low complication rate when performed alone or in combination with other aesthetic operations under local and general anesthesia.

Level of Evidence IV

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