Traditionally, body contouring has been an invasive and often painful procedure, causing many people to rethink having it done. However thanks to several new devices, non-invasive body sculpting is now possible, and these devices have made the procedure safer and more efficient. But what is non-invasive body contouring, and is it as effective as conventional liposuction?
At first glance, most people would think that lasers couldn’t possibly shape and contour the body as surgery does, but the results prove otherwise. Body shaping lasers slim and contour the body by selectively focusing on and eliminating pockets of fat. Fat is eliminated from areas such as the thighs, arms, stomach, and legs.
Non-invasive approaches to body contouring generally involve the use of devices powered by radiofrequency, ultrasound, or laser energy. At the Beaux Arts Institute of Plastic Surgery in Latham, MD, they use Velashape and Laser Lipo to carry out body contouring.
- Velashape combines bipolar radiofrequency and infrared light energy, along with a mechanical massage/vacuum, to minimize fat deposits. The device heats the skin and shrinks the fat cells, while the mechanical massage smooths skin tissue.
- Laser Lipo involves the use of lasers to break up the fat cells, and liquefy the fat. The fat is then eliminated naturally from the body. It typically takes one treatment with laser lipo to achieve a trimmer body.
These non-invasive options have the added benefit of requiring no surgical incisions, and no downtime. Patients can therefore resume regular activities immediately after treatment.