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SmartLipo
Smartlipo(TM) laser lipolysis

Known technically as Smartlipo(TM) laser lipolysis, Smartlipo(TM) is the most current advancement in liposuction. Instead of using suction to remove fat cells from the body, Smartlipo(TM) uses laser technology and energy to melt fat which then drains out of the surgical opening or is eliminated in the body's lymphatic system. The incisions required to start the procedure are so small they require no stitches after the procedure.

Smartlipo(TM) offers many advantage; the surgical wand, or cannula, inserted through the skin and into the fatty area is about the size of a thick syringe needle. Thanks to the laser technology, blood vessels are sealed as they are cut. That means less bruising and swelling for the patient and faster healing; post operative pain is also much less than with the suction method. One of the U.S. plastic surgeons testing Smartlipo(TM) on various groups of patients discovered an added benefit: Smartlipo(TM) promotes the growth of collagen under patients' skin. Collagen, one of the most abundant substances found in the human body, is a major factor in human aging. Collagen breaks down due to aging, sun damage or injury, leaving the outer layer of skin slack, causing wrinkling, thick creases, folds of skin and facial sagging. But when more collagen is added --- or induced to grow on its own -- skin becomes tighter, creating a more youthful, vigorous and rested appearance.

Further research discovered it was the heat of the laser causing the collagen to grow; researchers also found the effect continues for three to six months. Additionally, because the laser is very bright and is visible through the skin, the surgeon sees exactly where the treatment tip is located. Another advantage is that, whereas surgeons using standard liposuction must make straight back-and-forth movements, the tiny Smartlipo(TM) cannula can bend around curves in the body.

Smartlipo(TM) has been well tested and used for years in Italy (where it is manufactured) and several other European, Asian and South American nations before being approved by the FDA in November, 2006. The Smartlipo(TM)'s laser tip has actually been used in the United States for years to safely remove hair and spider veins from skin.

Smartlipo(TM) permanently removes actual fat cells from the body. So if the patient gains weight again, the poundage distributes to different areas.

Who would best Represent an Ideal Candidate for Smartlipo(TM)? Like all liposuction, Smartlipo(TM) is not a method of weight control. Rather, it is a procedure designed to remove stubborn pockets of fat that will not respond to diet and exercise. Most candidates for Smartlipo(TM) should be at, or near, their ideal weight.

Additionally, patients should be in good health, and have realistic expectations about the results that can be attained. Smartlipo(TM) is said by its manufacturer to be ideal for treating small areas of the face, neck, arms, breasts and areas of loose and flabby skin. The technology is also well suited to gynecomastia surgery which reduces overly large male breasts.

The procedure may also treat and slim areas affected by cellulite.

Where do I begin?

People considering Smartlipo(TM) should first find a qualified cosmetic surgeon to perform the procedure. By consulting directly with a qualified cosmetic surgeon, you can further explore the potential effects Smartlipo(TM) may offer in enhancing your personal appearance. CosmeticSurgery.com has created an easy and effective way for patients to find a cosmetic surgeon online. For more information please CLICK HERE.

How are Smartlipo(TM) Treatments Performed?

The surgeon thoroughly cleans the area to be treated with medical disinfectants, then creates one or several small openings in the skin and inserts the laser-tipped treatment cannula which causes fat cells to rupture and drain away. The cannula is moved back and forth, delivering the laser's energy to the fat cells. If the patient has a large area to treat, a standard liposuction device is sometimes used first. Then, the Smartlipo(TM) clears away the smaller areas and pockets where fat is concentrated.

Usually, only one treatment is required; a session may last from 45 minutes to one hour for each area treated. Results can be seen as soon as a week, with continued improvement over several months.

How Much Pain is Associated with Smartlipo(TM)?

Pain is minimal; local anesthetics are used during the procedure. Some surgeons use minimal pain killers so they can safely ask patients to stand before the procedure is complete. The purpose is to check for symmetry and balance before concluding the operation.

What should I expect after undergoing a Smartlipo(TM) treatment?

Typically, patients are up and around the day after the procedure. Candidates must also be willing to wear a compression garment after the operation for several days to several weeks, depending on the areas treated. The compression garment collapses the tunnels the cannula makes through the fatty areas to provide a sleeker, more contoured look after healing. Physicians also recommend staying away from hot tubs or strenuous exercise for two weeks. While rest is recommend just after the procedure, normal activity can be resumed gradually.

Adults do not create new fat cells so the treated area(s) will not become overweigh again.

What Are the Risks and Limitations of Smartlipo(TM)?

Smartlipo(TM) can't reach the fat deep in your body that surrounds the internal organs. As with any surgical procedure, the remote possibility of infection exists, along with the usual complications that can accompany surgery. After liposuction, a few patients may experience dimpling, lumpiness, numbness, scarring, discoloration, or sagging skin in the treated area. The possibility of burns exists due to laser heat. As with any surgical procedure, in an effort to minimize the associated risks, it is important to follow all of the surgeon's instructions, pre-operatively and post-operatively.

What Are The Typical Costs Associated With Smartlipo(TM)?

The cost for undergoing Smartlipo(TM) on the abdomen is around $5000. Fees within various regions of the United States and may vary depending on whether the doctor's practice is in an urban, suburban or rural area. This cost only covers the physician's fee, and does not include other miscellaneous costs. Be sure and ask your surgeon if your total costs covers all the usual, expected fees and charges and is a comprehensive figure.

This site provides information about plastic/cosmetic surgery and is designed to help users make decisions regarding their own treatment options. But medical information is not the same as medical advice -- the application of medical treatment to a person's specific circumstances. Although we go to great lengths to make sure our information is accurate and useful, we recommend you consult a qualified medical practitioner if you want professional assurance that our information, and your interpretation of it, is appropriate to your particular situation.