http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/abs/10.1089/pho.2008.2480

I have not read the full article as I am waiting on the print version but figured it might stimulate some discussion.

Abstract

Objective: This aim of this study was to evaluate the role of different wavelengths (920nm, 980nm, 1064nm, 1320nm, and 1440nm) in laser lipolysis. Background: Laser lipolysis is fast becoming a recognized technique for fat reduction. It has been demonstrated that (i) fat liquefaction is induced through a temperature elevation of the adipocyte cells, and (ii) fat volume reduction depends on total cumulative energy delivered at the treatment site. Materials and Methods: The optical coefficients and the total attenuation for fat tissue were determined in the 400–1500nm window. Numerical simulations were performed to estimate final fat reduction as a function of wavelength. Results: The penetration depth of wavelengths between 900 and 1320nm are largely similar, around 1.5mm. The only minor difference is at 1440nm, which is more absorbed by subcutaneous fat. The irreversibly damaged volume of tissue estimated by our numerical simulation is similar for wavelengths between 920 and 1320nm. We obtain a final volume of 4cm3 with 3750J delivered. Conclusion: With laser lipolysis, thermal elevation of a given volume can be obtained provided that the penetration depth remains in this nominal range. This explains why similar end results can be obtained using 920nm, 980nm, 1064nm, and 1320nm. Thermal build-up is the main factor behind adipocytolysis and skin contraction. Successful outcomes are dependent on the movement of the optical fiber inside the tissue and even and stable delivery of energy.

http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/abs/10.1089/pho.2008.2480

I have not read the full article as I am waiting on the print version but figured it might stimulate some discussion.

Abstract

Objective: This aim of this study was to evaluate the role of different wavelengths (920nm, 980nm, 1064nm, 1320nm, and 1440nm) in laser lipolysis. Background: Laser lipolysis is fast becoming a recognized technique for fat reduction. It has been demonstrated that (i) fat liquefaction is induced through a temperature elevation of the adipocyte cells, and (ii) fat volume reduction depends on total cumulative energy delivered at the treatment site. Materials and Methods: The optical coefficients and the total attenuation for fat tissue were determined in the 400–1500nm window. Numerical simulations were performed to estimate final fat reduction as a function of wavelength. Results: The penetration depth of wavelengths between 900 and 1320nm are largely similar, around 1.5mm. The only minor difference is at 1440nm, which is more absorbed by subcutaneous fat. The irreversibly damaged volume of tissue estimated by our numerical simulation is similar for wavelengths between 920 and 1320nm. We obtain a final volume of 4cm3 with 3750J delivered. Conclusion: With laser lipolysis, thermal elevation of a given volume can be obtained provided that the penetration depth remains in this nominal range. This explains why similar end results can be obtained using 920nm, 980nm, 1064nm, and 1320nm. Thermal build-up is the main factor behind adipocytolysis and skin contraction. Successful outcomes are dependent on the movement of the optical fiber inside the tissue and even and stable delivery of energy.