Clinical Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of a 1060-nm Diode Laser for Non-Invasive Fat Reduction of the Abdomen

Abstract

Background Despite the proven efficacy of liposuction, there is a population of patients who prefer non-surgical alternatives. Laser hyperthermia-induced lipolysis has emerged as one non-invasive alternative to liposuction. Objectives The authors sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a 1060-nm (±10 nm) diode laser for non-invasive fat reduction of the abdomen. Methods This single-arm, 2-center study enrolled 30 patients. Patients received a 25-minute 1060-nm diode laser treatment on their abdomen. Ultrasound adipose measurements, body weight, and circumference were taken at baseline and at 6- and 12-week follow-up visits. Blinded evaluators identified “before” and “after” photos of each patient. A patient satisfaction questionnaire was completed by each patient at study exit. Results A total 29 patients completed all treatment and follow-up visits. Ultrasound images showed an adipose reduction of 8.55% at 12 weeks post-treatment (P < 0.0001). Blinded evaluators correctly identified 67% of the pre- and post-treatment images at site 01 (Sacramento, CA) and 56% at site 02 (Dallas, TX). Satisfaction was high, with 72% of patients reporting being either “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their results on a 5-point Likert scale. Pain was rated as mild by 62% of patients, moderate by 38%, and severe by none on the Wong-Baker Scale. Conclusions These results indicate that a single treatment with a 1060-nm (±10 nm) diode laser, per the treatment protocol, is safe and effective in reducing unwanted fat in the abdomen as objectively measured employing ultrasound. The treatment was well-tolerated among all patients, with minimal discomfort reported and high patient satisfaction. Level of Evidence: 4

Efficacy of a Novel Injection Lipolysis to Induce Targeted Adipocyte Apoptosis: A Randomized, Phase IIa Study of CBL-514 Injection on Abdominal Subcutaneous Fat Reduction

“…33 Ultrasound after 1060-nm diode laser treatment showed that abdominal adiposity was reduced by 4.92% at 6 weeks and 8.55% ( P < 0.0001) at 12 weeks posttreatment. 3 However, ultrasound found no statistically significant reductions after LLLT 38 and, paradoxically, thickness increased in some participants. Using 3-dimensional photography 4 and comparing vs control, a statistically significant absolute fat volume loss of 56.2 mL ( P < 0.0001) was observed 2 months after cryolipolysis, as well as a mean absolute difference of 39.6 mL between treated and control areas.…”

“… 2 Furthermore, many patients may decline or be unsuitable for surgery. 3 Liposuction also risks long recoveries, scars, hematomas, 4 , 5 and complications such as bowel perforation 6 or long-term and/or potentially fatal deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. 4 , 5 …”

“…These treatments have fewer side effects, quicker recoveries, and can address difficult areas such as the submentum 7 and abdomen. 3 , 8 However, these devices are costly to purchase and operate, 9 slow to deliver results, and require dedicated spaces in clinics. Moreover, their efficacy depends on technical factors including the device’s applicator, which risks unevenness if used suboptimally.…”

Clinical evaluation of the safety and efficacy of a 1064 nm diode laser, and vacuum assisted pulsed electromagnetic fields and multipolar radio frequency for noninvasive fat reduction of the abdomen and flanks

“…One study looking at diode treatments found that a single treatment with a diode laser can reduce adipose tissue by 8.55% at 12 weeks post-treatment. 10 Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) are induced by short pulses of electrical current that penetrates the skin and results in the stimulation of molecular and cellular activities. Pulsed electromagnetic fields increase collagen fiber production by dermal fibroblasts and stimulate angiogenesis, leading to wound-healing effects.…”

“…This process of heat‐induced adipocyte apoptosis, followed by removal by macrophages, allows a specific reduction of the fat layer. One study looking at diode treatments found that a single treatment with a diode laser can reduce adipose tissue by 8.55% at 12 weeks post‐treatment 10 . Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) are induced by short pulses of electrical current that penetrates the skin and results in the stimulation of molecular and cellular activities.…”