Evaluation of Tissue Tightening by the Subdermal Nd: YAG Laser-Assisted Liposuction Versus Liposuction Alone

BACKGROUND: Skin tightening is a desirable outcome for skin flaccidity. OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the applicability, safety, capacity and intensity of skin tightening with the subdermal 1,064 nm Nd: YAG laser application to the upper arms, and compared the results with liposuction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with lipodystrophy and mild-to-severe skin laxity of the arms were included (n=28). In half of patients, a single treatment with a subcutaneous laser and liposuction was performed, while the other 14 had a regular liposuction. Treatment parameters, adverse effects and photographic documentation were recorded. RESULTS: Aesthetic improvement and skin retraction was superior by laser lipolysis. The procedure was well tolerated without significant complications. CONCLUSIONS: The subdermal laser-assisted liposuction using a 1,064 nm Nd: YAG laser achieves improved skin tightening.