Safety and Efficacy of a Noninvasive 1,060-nm Diode Laser for Fat Reduction of the Flanks

BACKGROUND: Preliminary reports indicate a hyperthermic diode laser treatment could be a safe and effective method for noninvasive fat reduction using the 1,060-nm wavelength. This wavelength penetrates the skin to heat subcutaneous adipocytes causing cellular disruption, leaving extracellular lipids, and cellular debris to be evacuated naturally by the body. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this modality for noninvasive fat reduction of the flanks. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty-nine subjects received single laser treatment to 1 flank. Ultrasound images were taken at baseline, follow-up at 6 and 12 weeks after treatment. High-resolution photographs were taken at baseline and 12 weeks after treatment and then evaluated by independent reviewers. Adverse events recorded at all visits. Subjects completed a satisfaction questionnaire at the conclusion of the trial. RESULTS Ultrasound images showed statistically significant (p <.001) average fat reduction of 2.6 6 1.1 mm. Reviewers correctly ordered photographs 90.3% of the time. Ninety-six percentage of subjects rated that they were satisfied. Noted side effects were transient mild to moderate tenderness which subsided within 1 to 3 weeks; no serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION The hyperthermic 1,060-nm diode laser treatment used in this study was safe and effective for noninvasive fat reduction of the flank.