The Benefits of Lasers in Cosmetic Medicine: Smart Lipo

Around the nation, patients have been discovering the role that lasers play in body contouring procedures such as laser liposuction and, specifically, Smart Lipo. In Redlands, California, patients should speak with a medical professional at a reputable clinic or medical spa offering Smart Lipo or other laser liposuction procedures to discuss their goals and whether liposuction is an option. Smart Lipo has proved to be a viable non-invasive laser liposuction procedure for patients in need of body contouring services. It is important that patients interested in this procedure speak with a medical professional regarding their candidacy for this procedure.

Smart Lipo is intended for patients in good overall health who have small pockets of fat that do not respond to diet or exercise. It is not intended for patients who are in poor health or who are obese or overweight. Patients should discuss their health conditions and medical history with a medical professional prior to receiving treatment. This may help to avoid any complications or side effects. Patients who are obese or overweight should speak with a medical professional regarding other treatments, diets, medications or exercise programs that may be effective in helping them lose weight and improve their health.

Smart Lipo has been effective in treating isolated pockets of fat deposits in the belly, buttocks, waist, thighs, upper arms, hips, flanks, chin, pubic mound, back of the neck and certain facial areas. Smart Lipo may also be effective in treating male breast reduction and gynecomastia. No incisions are required with this procedure and general anesthetic is not required. This makes Smart Lipo especially popular among many patients. The fat removal during Smart Lipo is only permanent if the patient keeps the fat off. This is accomplished through diet, exercise and leading a healthy lifestyle.

Before the procedure, a local anesthetic will be applied to the area to be treated. This will numb the area prior to beginning the procedure. Laser energy is directed at the fat cells below the surface of the skin. A handheld device is used to apply the laser energy towards the skin. The energy from the laser breaks down and liquefies the fat cells. The body's natural processes and immune system will drain and dispose of the liquefied fat in the days following treatment.

The laser energy used in this procedure also promotes the production and growth of new collagen which often leads to tighter skin in the treatment area. The laser energy also helps to seal off small blood vessels, which reduces bleeding and swelling in the treatment area. This often leads to an improved overall appearance in the treated area.

Some minor bruising may be present for 2 to 3 days following treatment. The use of a compression garment may be prescribed to assist in healing and to help minimize swelling. Some minor discomfort should be expected in the 24 hours following treatment. A medical professional may recommend an over-the-counter medication to help treat any discomfort the patient may experience. However, patients should check with their doctor before taking any medication.

It may take about 8 weeks before patients reach optimal results. The treated area may appear tighter and toned after the swelling subsides and patients may experience improved results for 6 to 8 weeks. Patients are encouraged to speak with a medical professional at a reputable Redlands, California medical spa or clinic offering Smart Lipo for more information about the procedure and to discuss any side effects. Patients with lingering questions or concerns should look to an experienced and knowledgeable medical professional in the field for answers.