What You Need to Know About Strawberry Laser Lipo

Author

Dr. Stephen Cosentino

Laser lipolysis is a fat-fighting treatment that has been proven effective in a double-blind clinical study. It’s an affordable, minimally or noninvasive alternative to traditional fat reduction surgery.

The key to laser lipo is right there in the name: lipolysis. Authors Michael Edwards and Shamim S. Mohiuddin describe lipolysis as “the metabolic process through which triacylglycerols (TAGs) break down via hydrolysis into their constituent molecules: glycerol and free fatty acids (FFAs).” Basically, laser lipo drains fat cells of smaller components that are easily removed by the body’s lymphatic system.

There are several different “flavors” of fat loss laser treatments. One of the newest and most exciting is strawberry laser lipo.

What Is Strawberry Laser Lipo?

Strawberry laser lipo is a safe, nearly pain-free, noninvasive cosmetic procedure performed by trained medical professionals. Depending on the laws in your state, the following types of providers may be cleared to perform laser liposuction:

Board-certified plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and other MD and DO specialists
Dentists and oral surgeons
Nurse practitioners and physician assistants
Registered nurses

Some amount of additional laser lipolysis training and certification is required for licensure, with the specifics varying by state.

How Does Strawberry Laser Lipo Work?

Strawberry laser lipo treatment is an in-office procedure that typically takes 10 to 30 minutes.

The provider places special laser paddles against the skin. These paddles emit cool, high-intensity laser light that breaks down fat cells without harming the skin, blood vessels, or nerves.

The provider may combine this treatment with acoustic “body vibration” treatment, which can help dislodge broken-down fat cells and accelerate drainage. Broken-down fat cells drain over a period of hours to a few days. However, the treated fat deposits have a tendency to return quickly without follow-up treatment or regular exercise.

What Can You Expect From Strawberry Laser Lipo Treatment?

Strawberry laser lipo treatment is an outpatient procedure with minimal recovery time. You can expect to return to normal activity immediately after each session, although your provider may recommend specific exercises or dietary guidelines to help you maintain your new shape.

Strawberry laser lipo results vary based on your existing fat distribution, body type, and fat-loss goals, among other factors. A double-blind study found that patients lost an average of 3.7 inches from treated areas compared with placebo groups, but individual results aren’t guaranteed.

Strawberry laser lipo is more effective with multiple treatments. Providers often recommend courses of eight treatments over a period of several weeks, but individual treatment plans vary considerably. One notable benefit of strawberry laser lipo is the promise of short-term fat loss — not quite instant results, but noticeable change within hours.

Because strawberry laser lipo doesn’t remove fat cells themselves from the body but merely drains them, you do need to keep an eye on the treated area. If you notice stubborn fat deposits returning as the drained fat cells expand again, it may be time to schedule a follow-up treatment. Regular, physician-supervised exercise and a healthy, balanced diet can help maintain results as well.