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 ± 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.