An Alternative to Tummy Tucks

Suck it up: Smart Liposuction

Every now and then, when looking in the mirror, we wish we had a little less in certain places. And, many of us consider liposuction, one of the most popular methods chosen to lose weight and shape the body. Today, a new liposuction procedure is available - SmartLipo or Smart liposuction.

What is Smart Liposuction?
Less invasive than the traditional surgery, Smart liposuction consists of laser-assisted surgery that boasts minimal side effects. In 2006, the US FDA approved the first-ever laser-assisted liposuction.

Smart Liposuction Procedure
The first step is to consult a doctor in order to determine whether or not the Smart liposuction option is appropriate for you. A consultation is important as not everyone is an ideal candidate.

The procedure begins with the doctor numbing the area to be treated with a local anesthetic. A small incision (1 to 2mm) is made and a thin tube with a laser fiber is inserted. The tube is moved back and forth through the fat areas under the skin. As the laser comes into contact with fat cells, the heat it emits makes the cells swell up until they burst into liquid oil. Subsequently, the oil is absorbed into the patient’s system, processed through the liver, and eventually excreted from the body.

One beneficial effect of laser-assisted liposuction is that it sets off the production of collagen, a substance that strengthens the skin, and thereby tightens the area being treated.

Post-Smart Liposuction
Following the doctor’s instructions, the patient should be able to slowly return to a normal routine the day after the surgery, but strenuous activities should be avoided for at least two weeks after the procedure.

Because the side effects of Smart liposuction are less than those of common liposuction, recovery time is quicker. Nevertheless, even though there are no stitches due to the smallness of the incision, it is normal for the patient to experience some soreness after the surgery.

Taking into consideration that every case is different, it typically takes anywhere from 1 week to 6 months before a patient can assess the end result.