Although the procedure has only been in practice for a couple of years, the term SmartLipo has become quite popular in the plastic surgery arena. A new laser fat removal procedure, SmartLipo uses a high-tech laser to remove unwanted fat from various areas of the body. It's the very first laser-assisted liposuction procedure to be approved by the FDA. With this cutting-edge laser technology, plastic surgeons are able to carry out more exact sculpting and contouring of the human body, while patients enjoy little to no downtime for recovery.

How SmartLipo Works

When undergoing a SmartLipo procedure, a tiny tube or cannula is inserted into the skin. A laser fiber is then inserted inside the tube. This laser fiber delivers highly focused amounts of energy to the fat cells, causing them to burst and liquify. This allows the liquid fat to be suctioned away with minimal effort. The use of the laser also causes the tissue around the lasered areas to coagulate (stop bleeding). The benefit of this is an overall firmer appearance of the overlying skin.

Benefits of SmartLipo

The main benefit of SmartLipo to patients is the ability to achieve optimal body sculpting results with very little recovery time involved, with patients often able to return back to their regular activities within 24 hours. Additional advantages include:

Less risks and side effects than traditional liposuction It tightens the skin around the treatment area It is performed under local anesthesia only The results are permanent. Ideal Candidates

As with other forms of liposuction, SmartLipo is not to be looked at as an easy way to lose weight. The procedure was strictly designed for removing stubborn fatty tissue that regular diet and exercise doesn't eliminate. Ideal candidates are men and women who have achieved their desired weight but continue to have areas of fat that have responded poorly to exercise and diet.

Common Areas of Treatment

The most common treatment areas for laser fat removal include:

Areas of the abdomen and waist Chin Thighs (both inner and outer) Hips Inner and upper arms Knees Fatty chest regions in men (gynecomastia or male breasts). Recovery Time

As mentioned, one of the main benefits of Smart Lipo is its speedy recovery time. This is due to the procedure being performed under a local anesthesia instead of general sedation. For patients who have the procedure performed on a Friday, they can expect to be back to work and other daily activities the following Monday.

Cost

There is not much difference in cost between SmartLipo and more traditional forms of liposuction. The cost depends mostly on where you live and how many body areas you have treated. Each area of the body typically ranges anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000.