Smart lipo can help dissolve stubborn fat without the disadvantages of traditional liposuction. There are fewer and smaller incisions, risks, and a shorter recovery.
What is it?
Smart lipo is a cosmetic surgery that has improved upon traditional methods of liposuction used in the past. While it is not a method for weight loss,
it helps to contour areas of the body that have stubborn fat deposits. There are less risks and less downtime than other surgeries with similar results, making it an increasingly popular procedure.
How does it work?
Traditional liposuction methods involve incisions and insertion of a cannula, which is a hollow, sharp-tipped tube that sucks the fat through suction. A mixture of lidocaine and saline is first injected into the body to ease the movement of the cannula and diminish potential damage to surrounding tissue. Smart lipo goes one step further and liquefies the fat cells before removal via laser, which means that smaller cannulas can be used. This further reduces complications and injury.
What are the benefits?
Smart lipo works great on those seeking improvement in specific areas. Smaller cannulas mean that the surgeon can be more exact and extract fat from smaller areas so as not to disturb the natural contours of the body, but rather improve them. Because the incisions are smaller, scarring is minimal and more easily camouflaged than traditional liposuction. Risks are also reduced as well as healing time, although that still largely depends on the individual.
When can I return to work?
For those seeking minor improvements, one to two days of rest and some over the counter painkillers is enough to control the mild discomfort associated with side effects such as bruising, swelling, and tenderness. If larger areas are being treated, it may take several days and up to a week maximum before most normal activities can be resumed. You may have to wait longer to undertake more rigorous activities such as exercise.
How much is it?
Price can vary greatly by surgeon and location. The amount of areas and fat removed will also be reflected in the cost. Minimum starting price is $1,700, which would be a single small area such as the chin or neck. Several areas or greater fat removal starts around $4,000 to $7,000. Since it is a cosmetic surgery, it will not be covered under insurance. Surgeons often offer payment or loan programs through their office though.
Where can it be performed?
Smart lipo is a flexible procedure that can improve a variety of areas on the body. The most popular are the abdomen and love handles, inner and outer thighs, and upper arms. However, the knees, chin, back, butt, and neck can all be treated with great results. If you are seeking treatment for a larger area, another liposuction method may be more suitable, so it is important to still research and explore all options.
What can't it do?
No form of liposuction can remove several pounds of fat or improve loose skin. Loose skin ad several pounds of fat would be better addressed by a nutritionist or different surgical procedures that can address problems associated with skin damage following immense weight loss.
