Low-level laser therapy as a non-invasive approach for body contouring: a randomized, controlled study

Area of Science:

• Aesthetics
• Dermatology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Transmission electron microscopy reveals transitory pores in adipocyte membranes after 635 nm laser irradiation.
• Adipose cells undergo collapse following laser exposure, indicating a potential mechanism for fat reduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a 635 nm, 17.5 mW multiple diode laser for non-invasive body contouring.
• To assess the reduction in circumference measurements of the waist, hips, and thighs.

Main Methods:

• A 2-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 67 volunteers (BMI 25-30 kg/m²).
• Participants received either low-level laser treatment or a sham treatment three times weekly.
• Circumference measurements of the waist, hips, and thighs were recorded at baseline and after 2 weeks.

Main Results:

• The treatment group showed a significant overall reduction of -3.51 inches (P < 0.001) compared to the control group's -0.684 inches (P < 0.07).
• Specific reductions included -0.98 inches (waist), -1.05 inches (hip), and -0.85/-0.65 inches (thighs).
• A slight gain of 0.31 inches was observed 2 weeks post-procedure in the treatment group.

Conclusions:

• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) demonstrates effectiveness in reducing circumference measurements in targeted body regions.
• The 635 nm diode laser treatment is a viable option for non-invasive body contouring applications.