Laser lipolysis: skin tightening in lipoplasty using a diode laser.
BACKGROUND
New devices have been developed for surgical repair of deformities caused by localized fat deposits associated with skin laxity. The use of these devices requires the adoption of safety parameters. The aim of this study was to investigate skin tightening by laser lipolysis, using a dual-wavelength diode laser.


METHODS
This prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted between June of 2008 and July of 2010 with 41 consecutive patients who underwent laser lipolysis to correct contour deformities. Laser lipolysis was performed with a diode laser operating at two wavelengths (924 and 975 nm) controlled independently, and using three different tip lengths, allowing treatment of small, medium, and large areas of adipose tissue. The procedure was performed under local anesthesia in a surgical setting. To calculate the optimal cumulative energy, a total energy dose of 5 kJ/10 × 10-cm skin area was used as a safety parameter to prevent treatment complications. The circumferences of body regions were measured preoperatively, immediately after surgery, and 90 days later. Measurements were compared using the Wilcoxon test at a significance level of 0.05 (p < 0.05).


RESULTS
A significant skin tightening was observed in all patients, regardless of the body site involved (i.e., face, breast, arms, or waist regions), and no complications occurred.


CONCLUSIONS
Laser lipolysis results in progressive skin tightening over time.


METHODS
Therapeutic, IV.
São Paulo and Recife, Brazil From the Graduate Program in Translational Surgery, the Division of Plastic Surgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo.
Moisés
M
Wolfenson
Bernardo
B
Hochman
Lydia Massako
LM
Ferreira
D000273:Adipose Tissue / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D054023:Lasers, Semiconductor / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015187:Lipectomy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015595:Skin Aging