SLIM™ Laser Liposuction FAQs

Which body parts can be treated with this procedure?

Because of its advanced precision, SLIM laser liposuction can be used to treat nearly any area of the body with unresponsive deposits of fat, including areas much smaller than those that can be treated with conventional liposuction.  Some of the most commonly treated areas include:

• Abdomen
• Hips
• Buttocks
• Thighs
• Arms
• Knees
• Back
• Face

Fat that is melted in smaller areas often does not need to be suctioned out of the body, which further reduces the risk of bruising and discomfort after treatment.  Dr. Garvey will discuss the ideal areas of treatment for you during your one-on-one consultation.

How does the SLIM laser liposuction procedure work?

The SLIM laser liposuction procedure uses a combined 924 nm and 975 nm wavelength to selectively remove fat from problem areas of the body.  During the procedure, a thin tube called a cannula is inserted into the targeted area to deliver heat energy that melts fat.  The fat can then be easily suctioned from the body or can be left to be absorbed naturally. 

Who is a good candidate for the SLIM procedure?

SLIM laser liposuction is best designed for patients who are motivated to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle, but have one or more problem areas that do not respond to natural weight-loss methods such as diet and exercise. 

It is also important for patients to have realistic expectations in order to achieve satisfactory results from the SLIM procedure.  While this procedure can effectively remove localized areas of fat, it cannot cure obesity and is not considered an extreme weight loss solution.

Back to Top

What are the benefits of SLIM laser liposuction?

SLIM laser liposuction offers patients many benefits over the conventional liposuction procedure, some of which include:

• No need for general anesthesia
• Less bleeding
• Less scarring
• Ability to treat smaller areas
• Shorter recovery times
• Less pain
• More precise results

In addition to these major benefits, this procedure also does not require stitches, and eliminates the need for additional cosmetic treatments for many patients.  While conventional liposuction may leave skin loose and hanging off the body after fat has been removed, the heat used in the SLIM laser procedure helps to promote collagen production and causes skin to conform to the new contours of the body.

Does SLIM laser liposuction hurt?

Most patients find the SLIM laser liposuction procedure tolerable, reporting only minimal discomfort.  This procedure is performed under a local anesthetic to further reduce any potential discomfort.

The SLIM procedure is much less painful than conventional liposuction, as fat cells are first liquefied before being suctioned out of the body.  In some cases, fat does not even have to be removed, and can simply be absorbed naturally by the body with no associated health risks.  Many patients choose this procedure for its overall safety and convenience.

How long does recovery from this procedure take?

After the SLIM liposuction procedure, patients may experience mild bruising, which subsides after a few weeks.  Any other side effects are usually minimal, and patients can return to work the very next day.  Traditional liposuction involves a recovery period of about a week, along with recovery from general anesthesia, which can often cause side effects such as nausea and fatigue.

Is SLIM laser liposuction considered safe?

This procedure is considered safe for most patients, with no risk of any serious or long-term complications and a reduced risk of mild side effects such as bruising, bleeding and swelling.  Women who are pregnant or patients taking certain medications may not be candidates for this procedure.  Dr. Garvey will decide whether or not this procedure is considered safe for you after a physical examination and thorough evaluation of your medical history.

Is SLIM laser liposuction affordable?

SLIM laser liposuction is considered a less expensive alternative to conventional liposuction and other types of cosmetic procedures, in addition to its many other advantages.  The actual cost of the procedure depends on the size and location of the treated area, but may be up to 30 percent less than the conventional procedure. 

Although usually not covered by insurance, there are many financing options available to help patients achieve the look they desire through this advanced, minimally invasive procedure.  Dr. Garvey’s staff will help you develop a personalized payment plan for your treatment.