SmartLipo Technology and FAQ

SMARTLIPO uses the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery technology, which provide a safer, quicker and cost-effective method.

Pioneered in Europe, the SmartLipo procedure is the first laser-assisted liposuction procedure. SmartLipo was approved by the FDA in November of 2006 and has quickly been labeled the cutting edge procedure in cosmetic surgery.

According to SmartLipo’s manufacturer, Cynosure, the SmartLipo system has quickly become one of the most successful liposuction procedures in the cosmetic surgery field for its use of cutting-edge technology.

With SmartLipo, a hollow, pen-sized instrument called a cannula is inserted into a minor incision made by the surgeon. The cannula uses a small laser to liquefy the fat cells an area and drain them away. Because the cannula is only about 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, SmartLipo is a less invasive procedure, reducing the risk of bruising and promoting a quicker recovery. In addition, the cannula’s laser acts as a visual guide, helping the surgeon make more precise movements than typical Liposuction.

With a 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser, the wattage ranges from 6W to 18W, and the higher the wattage allows for a faster procedure. As the laser liquefies fat cells, the laser will simultaneously coagulate small blood vessels, preventing bleeding and swelling. A hollow cannula is also used to suction out the fat cells and speed the recovery process.

SmartLipo FAQs

How long does the SmartLipo procedure take?
The SmartLipo procedure takes an average of 2–3 hours per session.

How many SmartLipo treatments are required?
Most patients typically require only one treatment. Each SmartLipo session may last from 45 minutes to one hour for each area treated. SmartLipo can also be used for “touch-ups” and revisions to previously treated areas.

Does SmartLipo treat cellulite?
The SmartLipo procedure will improve the body’s shape and may reduce cellulite to a certain degree.

What is the long-term outcome for most people?
Most patients can see results immediately following the SmartLipo procedure, and they can expect their skin to return to normal within three months.

However, as with traditional liposuction, you will need to practice patience since the full SmartLipo results may not be visible for up to a year. The more fat that was removed, the longer it will take to achieve maximum results, as your body needs to adapt to a more significant shape change.

Do I have to stay in the hospital?
No. SmartLipo is performed as an out-patient procedure under local anesthesia. You won’t be required to stay in the hospital, since recovery from SmartLipo works best within the comfort of your home.

What if I’ve already had regular liposuction?
SmartLipo may be extremely effective for improving upon body areas that have been previously treated with traditional liposuction. With the SmartLipo procedure your doctor can further sculpt or contour those areas on the body that have “droopy” skin, especially if you are a relatively thin, healthy person who wants additional toning and tightening.

What are the main advantages of SmartLipo?

• It offers the smoothest, best body-contouring results.
• It entails only a short recovery time.
• Minimal discomfort is involved.
• It is safer than traditional liposuction.
• It tightens the skin around the treatment area.
• It is more affordable than traditional liposuction.
• The results are permanent.

Can SmartLipo work on areas that regular liposuction can’t?
Yes. Since the aiming beam at the tip of the SmartLipo laser allows the doctor to know exactly where he or she is at all times, the procedure is very precise. As such, SmartLipo is very effective in body areas that are not suitable for traditional liposuction, such as the face, neck, back and knees.

Does the SmartLipo procedure hurt?
Since the SmartLipo procedure is performed under local anesthesia, there is very little pain or discomfort involved. You may feel a minor stinging sensation and an impression of tugging at your skin during the SmartLipo treatment, but these discomforts are minimal.

SmartLipo…you’ve got questions; we’ve got answers.