A Guide to SmartLipo

Background to SmartLipo

SmartLipo also known as Liposmart or laser lipolysis is the latest technology in the fight against excess fat. Available for both men and women, it is a unique treatment devised to reduce fat deposits established in various regions of the body. SmartLipo is essentially for those individuals who are looking to refine their physic rather than achieve substantial weight loss. Its use of sophisticated laser equipment has proved revolutionary, and the FDA have acknowledge its validity by granting it approval in 2006.

The aims of SmartLipo are similar to that of liposuction and other weight loss mediums, however the delicacy of the treatment, the use of local anaesthesia and the speed of recovery make it an increasingly appealing option.

How does SmartLipo work?

SmartLipo involves the application of a highly sensitive laser to dissolve the fat deposits situated in the upper layers of the human skin. The energy emanating from the laser breaks up the fat cells to produce an oily material. This substance is either naturally eliminated through normally bodily processes or can be removed via a small incision made by the practising surgeon. This leads to a permanent loss of fat as long as a healthy diet is maintained after treatment.

The subtlety of the treatment carries various advantages over the problems often associated with liposuction. Damaged blood vessels and allied physical risks are significantly reduced, and recovery time is condensed. It is also acknowledged that the laser itself is important in encouraging collagen production, thus strengthening the skin.

The methodology behind SmartLipo

The procedure will begin once both parties are satisfied that there is a full understanding on what is about to happen.

If you have any anxieties prior to surgery you should highlight your issues to the practitioner and he can provide you with the relevant information.

To begin with a local anaesthetic will be applied to the area selected for treatment. Following this a 1 mm wide tube, known as a cannula, will be inserted through a small opening in the skin. The laser technology is attached to the cannula, and the laser is emitted over the target composition of fat cells, immediately converting them into an oily solution. This solution is normally removed from the body through its natural metabolic processes and elimination systems. However, after consultation the physician can artificially remove the fat through suction mechanisms. This is normally your decision, but it does appear to speed up the results.

A single treatment area normally takes approximately 1 hour to complete, but is dependent on the size of the area being treated. On completion you may be asked to remain within the treatment centre for up to two hours, purely as a precaution. It is generally accepted that you will be able to continue with normalities the following day.

Post treatment care

Your practitioner should provide you with all the relevant information before you leave, and will arrange various follow up appointments to keep an eye on your recovery. It is acknowledged that the following precautions should be adhered to following treatment:

Refrain from drinking any alcohol for a minimum of 12 hours.
Refrain from gently massaging the area for a minimum of 12 days, and heavy massaging the area for a minimum of 5 months.
Adhere to your prescribed course of antibiotics.
Avoid infection by keeping the area clean and dry for approximately 3 days.
Follow the practitioner’s instructions regarding the length of time the clinical bandage needs to be applied for. This process is vital for the promotion of tissue healing and the prevention of blood clots.
It is advised that you try and reframe from smoking.
Anti-inflammatory medication and blood thinners are not suitable in the immediate period.
Vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks, however small movements are recommended in order to maintain blood circulation.
If anything appears or feels untoward in the treatment area you should contact your practitioner immediately.

Potential risks of SmartLipo

SmartLipo is accepted as a safe and well-tolerated practice. The use of local anaesthesia has removed the dangers associated with general anaesthesia. Its delicate nature, and the lasers promotion of coagulation has reduced the chances of bleeding, infection and tissue damage that can occur with traditional methods of liposuction.

Following treatment patients have been found to experience minor bruising, inflammation and pain. By following the practitioners recommendation these symptoms should subside within a couple of weeks.

FAQ’s about SmartLipo

Is repeat treatment required?

Generally, one treatment per a single area is usually adequate to achieve the required results. However, after 6 months if the results are unsatisfactory there is the opportunity for repeat treatments.

Is SmartLipo a long-term solution?

How permanent the weight loss is, is determined by your lifestyle following treatment. SmartLipo destroys the accumulation of the fat in the treated area to leave a long-term solution. However, maintenance of this fat loss is dependent on a healthy diet and exercise.

How quickly will I see the results of treatment?

You will see the results of the treatment periodically. Initially you may notice some minor changes, but it will be one to two months before significant changes are witnessed. The body will naturally continue to remove the processed fat over a long period of time, subsequently it may take as many as twelve months before the final outcome is achieved.

Which body areas can I target?

SmartLipo is used as a refining instrument, to sculpture areas of the body that contain areas of loose fat. The treatment is ideal for smaller areas of the neck, breasts, back, knees, face, chin, hips, thighs, bottom and arms. However, any area diagnosed as containing loose fat will be susceptible to treatment.

Is the treatment associated with any pain?

The local anaesthetic employed during treatment should inhibit any pain. You may feel a slight sensation, but this should not manifest itself into anything uncomfortable.

Will I suffer from any bruising or physiological damage afterwards?

As the laser causes coagulation, bleeding during this treatment is normally fairly minimal; subsequently bruising is not a major concern. The simplicity of the procedure means tissue and skin damage are negligible, and stitches are not normally necessary.

Does SmartLipo have any advantages over traditional methods?

Your recovery time is reduced.
The laser itself promotes the tightening of the skin around the treated area. This reduces the possibility of saggy regions of skin, thus improving the aesthetics.
The subtlety of the technology and the therapeutic capabilities of the laser reduce the risk of bruising, tissue damage and bleeding.

The precision of the laser technology allows smaller areas, often out of reach of traditional methods, to be treated.

How quickly will I recover from the procedure?

Timelines for recovery can vary depending on the individual. If you suffer from any bruising or numbness, this will normally dissipate within a matter of days. The swelling usually subsides after a week, by this time you will be able to continue with the majority of your normal activities.

Who should avoid this treatment?

If you are either pregnant or currently breastfeeding you will not be authorized to participate.

Those diagnosed with obesity or classified as having a Body Mass Index of over 30 are not suitable for this procedure.

Treatment costs of SmartLipo

This procedure is privately accessed from a number of establishments. The cost of the treatment typically ranges from £1,500 - £4,500, and is dependent upon the number of areas being treated, and the relative size of each area.

Smaller areas of the body will routinely cost around £2000. Treatment to multiple regions will generate an aggregate cost of around £2,500 - £3,500 for two regions and up to £4,500 for three regions.