We are often asked about the success rate of our LASER Smoking Cessation treatment. The short answer is 85%-93% based upon over 25 years of data collected from our clinics throughout Canada, and worldwide. The long answer provides the reason for the range.
1) Region-to-region and clinic-to-clinic variation: Though the treatment methodology is the same in each clinic, within every region, program efficacy depends to some extent upon the regional, cultural influences supporting the quit-smoking program, and how the program is promoted by each clinic. The program is quit effective if it is followed, but it requires the support of the family and ultimately of the community.
2) Personal commitment to the program: Smoking cessation treatment will not be effective if the client is not ready to quit, either with a half-hearted commitment, or due to a promise to a parent or loved one. The nicotine craving is reduced substantially by LASER treatment, and subsides over the first 24-48 hours, but it still requires a commitment to quit, and will power. LASER treatment helps reduce the craving, but the client must change old habits which trigger the desire to smoke, and he/she must follow the detox program which bolsters the bodies effective response to nicotine withdrawal.
3) Setting the proper expectation: Like personal commitment, having the proper expectation is critical to success with the program. Some fail because they underestimate the will power required during the first 24-48 hours. Though many experience a complete eliminate of nicotine craving following LASER treatment, most find the craving is reduced to a manageable level, while the detox program helps the body respond to withdrawal until the craving is further reduced or eliminated. For most, full nicotine addiction is always just a puff away, so all clients need to be clear and vigilant to avoid relapse.