People forget the fact that lasers are only applicable in a handful of situations across specialities, with the most use being in retinal surgery and dermatology.

Now, this article in the New York Times will add fat to the fire. A company called Zeltiq Aesthetics has brought the Zerona laser to the fore. This four armed machine points red beams at the fat rolls and some sessions later, the inches will have disappeared. At least, in theory.

(pic from Flickr.com)

Talking of which, here is a randomized study on the subject. Interestingly, Zeltiq’s motto is ‘More science, less fat’. Hmmmn. Sounds like BMI!

Even if the laser works (and I can clearly see some drawbacks with it), there is a good chance that commercial abuse will occur widely.

The theoretical argument of the fat (literally) melting and leaking into the lymphatic system to be subsequently metabolised in the body has some flaws, IMO.

This would work if the body is in a metabolically demanding situation (as in exercise and fasting), when the released fatty acids and glycerols (which components make fat) would be metabolised for energy. This would result, indeed, in fat loss.

However, if the patient (or client) has a bag of fries and a sandwich with a Frappuccino, this is not likely to happen.

More information is obviously needed before we judge this product, and you know where to stay tuned for this. Don’t you?