SmoothLipo - Non Surgical Liposuction

SmoothLipo is a bodysculpting procedure that uses traditional liposuction methods combined with the power of laser technology to achieve fat removal with less discomfort and faster recovery than with traditional liposuction alone. Unlike other laser-assisted techniques, the SmoothLipo laser uses a specific wavelength that offers faster, more consistent heating of fat cells, and produces a more uniform result overall. SmoothLipo also offers an additional benefit, smoothing and firming skin in the treatment area.

How does SmoothLipo differ from traditional liposuction?

SmoothLipo differs from traditional liposuction in several ways. Compared to the SmoothLipo procedure, traditional liposuction:

· causes much more trauma to surrounding tissues
· involves a much longer healing time
· involves significantly greater loss of blood
· removes less fat per procedure
· causes significantly greater discomfort, swelling and bruising following the procedure
· requires much longer downtime
· usually requires general anesthesia

Who is a candidate for SmoothLipo?

Nearly any man or woman with isolated pockets of fat which do not respond to diet and exercise can be a good candidate for the SmoothLipo procedure. The ideal candidate will be near his or her ideal weight – generally no more than 25 pounds overweight – with no major medical concerns, including autoimmune or bleeding disorders. Be sure to discuss any medical issues or health concerns with your specialist during your consultation to determine if the procedure is right for you.

Which areas of the body is SmoothLipo useful for?

 
SmoothLipo is an ideal treatment for localized pockets of fat located in the:

· abdomen or belly
· flanks
· thighs
· waist
· back
· face
· chin

SmoothLipo can also be used to treat male breast enlargement, or gynecomastia

Who is not a candidate for SmoothLipo?

SmoothLipo is not a good choice for any individual who:

· is significantly overweight
· has a bleeding or autoimmune disorder
· suffers from certain chronic medical conditions
· is seeking a treatment specifically for cellulite

Is the fat removal from the Smoothlipo technique permanent?

Yes, the fat cells which are removed with the SmoothLipo procedure are gone for good. However, significant weight gain during the years following your procedure can result in fat deposits occurring in adjacent areas.

How is the procedure performed?

While you lie on a table, your specialist will carefully mark the areas to be treated to ensure accurate fat removal. A local anesthetic will be administered to numb the treatment area. Once the area is numb, a small incision will be made near the treatment site to allow for the insertion of a small metal tube, or cannula. During the procedure, the cannula will be used to deliver laser energy to the fat cells, breaking them apart and liquefying them, making it easier for them to be removed. The same tube will be used to suction out the liquefied fat and saline fluid used during the procedure. Once the fat is removed, the incision will be closed and a dressing will be applied. Unlike traditional liposuction, SmoothLipo requires no general anesthesia, and your procedure can be performed in as little as 45 minutes for small areas.

What is the recovery like?

Recovery time with SmoothLipo is much less than the downtime required for traditional liposuction. There may be some slight, temporary bruising or swelling immediately after your treatment, but these will resolve within a day or two. Most individuals resume their normal routines within a few days of the SmoothLipo procedure.

When will I begin to see results?

You will begin to see results immediately after your SmoothLipo procedure, as your body shows the initial signs of a smoother, more compact shape in the treatment area. Those results will significantly improve during the weeks following the procedure, as your skin conforms to your new contours. Increased collagen production during the post-op period will also result in firmer, tighter skin tone in the treatment area, as well.

How many sessions are needed?

Only one session is necessary per localized area to remove stubborn fatty tissue and firm skin in the treatment area.

When can I return to work after SmoothLipo?

Most men and women are able to return to work within 2 to 3 days of their SmoothLipo procedure, but individuals who have large areas or multiple areas sculpted may feel more comfortable waiting an additional day before going back to work.

Can SmoothLipo be used with traditional liposuction?

Yes, SmoothLipo can be used with traditional liposuction for patients with larger amounts of fatty tissue that need to be removed. In these patients, SmoothLipo can be used to refine the traditional techniques, treating smaller, more localized areas to define contours more effectively.

What are the advantages of SmoothLipo over other procedures?

SmoothLipo offers many advantages over other procedure, including:

· gentler heating of fat cells, resulting in less trauma
· no need for general anesthesia
· consistent results
· minimal downtime
· less discomfort
· less swelling and bruising
· higher degree of safety
· firmer skin in the treatment area

Is SmoothLipo approved for use in the USA?

Yes, SmoothLipo is approved for use in the United States.

Is SmoothLipo covered by insurance companies?

The SmoothLipo procedure is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by major medical insurance companies.

SmoothLipo Cost

SmoothLipo can be used to treat a wide range of fatty tissue, and prices vary accordingly. In most cases, SmoothLipo procedures range from $1500 to $8000.

Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.

By Dermanetwork.org Staff
Updated: July 8, 2009