What is Aqualipo?

Aqualipo is a new kind of treatment that is designed to remove unwanted excess fat deposits from the face and body. Unlike traditional liposuction, it causes very few side effects, there are limited risks to the procedure, and patients typically experience little to no downtime. Combining the power of lasers with a gentle water flushing technique, Aqualipo helps patients to look and feel their best with a minimal amount of discomfort. Aqualipo has not yet been FDA approved for use in the United States, but it has been approved and used successfully in many other countries.

How does Aqualipo work?

Aqualipo is a relatively simple procedure that uses a precise, powerful laser and water. The laser melts away fat deposits deep below the skin. Water is then used to flush away the liquefied fat using the Body-Jet fat removal system. This method is much gentler than traditional suctioning techniques and causes less trauma to surrounding tissue.

What areas of the body does Aqualipo treat?

There are several common areas where excess fat is a problem. This includes areas like the thighs, buttocks, hips, love handles, abdomen, arms, face, and neck. Aqualipo is safe to use in all these areas.

What are the advantages of Aqualipo over other similar treatments?

Aqualipo is much safer and poses fewer risks that traditional liposuction. Most patients require no downtime, and the procedure is very unlikely to cause severe side effects or discomfort.

Who is a candidate for Aqualipo?

Adults who are not overweight and are in generally good health are usually good candidates for Aqualipo. The procedure should not be used for overall weight loss, so it is important that patients are of a healthy weight.

How is the Aqualipo performed?

Aqualipo is performed on an outpatient basis by a specialist. The procedure is performed using a hand held laser device and the Body-Jet water flushing device. Typically, a local anesthetic is administered to the area being treated. Some doctors may also give the patient anti-anxiety medication to ease stress. The doctor uses the laser to target and melt the unwanted fat cells. The laser simultaneously causes skin tightening. Once the fat has been liquefied, it is aspirated from the body using the gentle Body-Jet device. Each area can usually be treated in just 30-45 minutes, and patients are usually able to leave the office within 15 minutes after the procedure has been completed.

What is the recovery like?

The recovery following an Aqualipo procedure is generally very smooth. Because patients do not undergo general anesthesia, they are able to immediately resume their normal day to day activities including driving. There is no need for stitches, and most patients do not experience any severe side effects.

What will the results be like?

Immediately following the Aqualipo procedure, patients are able to see the results. The excess fat is removed entirely, and there is no sagging skin left behind because the laser causes skin tightening. The end result is a smooth, contoured appearance that is free from scars and bumps. The results are permanent because the fat cells are completely removed, but it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent excess fat deposits in other areas.

What are the risks?

Aqualipo is a minimally invasive procedure and poses very few risks. Mild bruising and swelling may occur but will be significantly less than what is caused by traditional liposuction.

Is Aqualipo FDA approved for use in the U.S.?

No, Aqualipo has not been approved for use in the U.S. because the procedure is still undergoing testing. It has, however, been used in many other countries.

Is Aqualipo covered by insurance companies?

Like most cosmetic procedures, Aqualipo usually is not covered by health insurance. You may be able to obtain outside medical financing or work with your doctor's office to set up payments that you can afford.

Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.

By Anti-Aging.org Staff
Updated: June 21, 2009