Overview
SmartLipo is a cosmetic surgical procedure used to remove excess fat from the body. Unlike traditional liposuction, SmartLipo utilizes laser energy to essentially melt fat. Although this procedure method takes months to see full results, the effects of surgery are long lasting. SmartLipo features three wavelengths to create a custom treatment to match the desired looked. At Prima Center for Plastic Surgery in Duluth, our surgeons will work closely with you during consultation to discuss procedure outlooks and determine if this method is best for you. Cost details will also be provided during your initial consult.
Smartlipo™ Reviews
How Smartlipo is Performed
Because Smartlipo uses a mini cannula, the incisions are much smaller. The cannula with the laser attachment is inserted through these tiny incisions and targets the fat tissue under the skin, melting it with its laser heat. The surgeon can control the temperature of the laser and with great precision, focus on the fat while leaving other tissue and internal structures untouched. During this process, the fat cells that are hit by the laser will swell, pop and melt. The broken down fat tissues are removed by a small vacuum suction. For smaller areas on the body, the liquefied fat is naturally absorbed by the body and a vacuum may not be necessary.
During/After the Procedure
Smartlipo is a minimally invasive procedure that is done in an accredited surgical facility. Local or general anesthesia may be used depending on the size of the area being treated. The treatment lasts less than an hour per area. Due to the nature of the procedure, the recovery period is quicker than traditional liposuction. The laser application promotes tissue coagulation so that there is less bleeding, swelling and bruising. The patient will also notice that the skin will tighten around the treatment area as the laser helps in collagen development. Optimal results can be seen within 4-6 months.
Plan Your Procedure
- Recovery Time
- 2-4 weeks
- Average Procedure Time
- 1-5 hours
- Post-op Follow-up
- 5-7 days
- Procedure Recovery Location
- Out-Patient
Smartlipo FAQs
Ideal Areas for Smartlipo?
As Smartlipo utilizes a smaller cannula, it can target areas where precision is needed such as the neck or the arms. This still includes the more common areas treated for liposuction such as hips, flanks or abdomen. But there are also cases in which traditional liposuction can approach an area better than Smartlipo. This will be discussed to the patient by the plastic surgeon during the initial consultation to see which method is better.
Will I Have Scars?
The incisions made with Smartlipo are tiny – just enough for the cannula to be inserted. With this treatment, the cannula is smaller compared to what is used with a traditional liposuction. These incisions do not need any sutures. Often they heal on their own, aided with topical medications.
Fat Gone Away?
Fat cells destroyed by Smartlipo are permanent. This does not mean that new fat cells cannot develop. Adhering to a healthy lifestyle with proper diet and exercise will ensure that the results attained are long-term.
How Much Weight Will I Lose?
It is important to understand that Smartlipo, or even the traditional liposuction method, is not a one-stop solution to being overweight. While fat removal of any kind will result in less weight on the body, in order to be considered for the procedure, the patient must already be close to or near his or her goal weight.
