Why has 1470 nm become identified with Endolifting?
The high affinity of 1470 nm for water helps it create a controlled photothermal effect in subdermal tissue. This effect is associated with collagen contraction, remodeling, and a volume-reducing effect in selected fat areas. A significant portion of the current Endolifting literature has been conducted with 1470 nm diode laser systems.
In which field has 980 nm been studied more?
The 980 nm diode laser has been investigated for a long time in the field of laser lipolysis. A retrospective series of 534 procedures and a long-term experience series of 674 procedures reported clinical use in terms of localized fat reduction and subdermal tissue contraction. In a randomized clinical trial conducted with 36 women in the submental area, 980 nm laser-assisted lipolysis was compared with traditional liposuction, and favorable results were reported in fat thickness and patient satisfaction.
Does wavelength alone determine the outcome?
No. The laser lipolysis literature demonstrates that the ultimate thermal effect depends not only on the wavelength, but also on fiber motion, total energy, power settings, tissue thickness, and the plane of application. A study comparing the 920–1320 nm range reported that similar thermal effects can occur across many wavelengths when adequate total energy and proper distribution are achieved.
How do 1470 nm and 980 nm differ in practice?
| Feature | 1470 nm | 980 nm |
|---|---|---|
| Prominent use in the literature | Endolifting, subdermal remodeling, skin tightening | Laser-assisted lipolysis, localized fat reduction |
| Main chromophore tendency | High affinity for water | Hemoglobin/water and thermal fat-tissue interaction |
| Typical target | Tissue tightening + selected contour | Fat volume reduction + contraction |
| Evidence base | Newer and rapidly growing | Older and broad laser lipolysis experience |
Which is better?
The question of “which is better” cannot be answered by wavelength alone. The goal of tissue remodeling in a small face/neck area is not the same as the goal of more pronounced fat volume reduction. Proper device selection must be evaluated in conjunction with the target tissue, anatomical region, fiber, energy, and application technique.
Our approach at our Bodrum clinic
We evaluate the wavelength not as a marketing argument alone, but together with the tissue target. For more superficial/subdermal remodeling and tightening targets, 1470 nm; while for more prominent lipolysis targets, 980 nm or combined systems can assume different roles depending on the device and protocol.
References
- Laser lipolysis with a 980 nm diode laser. PMID: 20518362.
- Lipolysis using a 980-nm diode laser: retrospective analysis of 534 procedures. PMID: 18972152.
- 980-nm laser lipolysis: 674 procedures in 359 patients. PMID: 22372568.
- Comparative study of wavelengths for laser lipolysis. PMID: 19803718.
- 980-nm diode laser-assisted lipolysis vs liposuction for submental rejuvenation. PMID: 25968162.
- The Endo-lift Laser for Dermatological Aesthetic Conditions: Systematic Review. PMID: 38886198.
- Synergistic Effects of Endolift With Complementary Cosmetic Procedures. PMID: 42153325.
For the main page where wavelength selection, tissue targeting, and clinical use are addressed together, you can review the Endolifting guide.
Written and medically reviewed by: Dr. Kerem Çağlayan
Last medical review: September 11, 2026
