Smartlipo Technology
How does Smartlipo work?
Smartlipo, also known as laser lipolysis, is performed using a small cannula inserted under the skin. A thin laser fiber, about 1/50th of an inch wide is inserted in the cannula and activated. The laser energy then liquifies the fat cells permanently bursting the fat cells and destroying them.
How is Smart Lipo performed?
Several aspects are similar to standard liposuction but there are several important differences. First, your doctors will use the awake tumescenct technique. This is a technique in which a solution of lidocaine and epinephrine are injected into the fat tissue under the skin. Then the laser lipolysis can be performed. Since the laser instrument is so small, general anesthesia is not required, and the procedure can be performed in the office with you being awake. After the fat is melted with the Smartlipo, your doctor will typically suction out the fat with small suction cannulae (tubes).I've heard that Smartlipo has a quick recovery time, with some people calling it 'lunchtime lipo'.
One exciting aspect of the laser lipolysis is that the laser coagulates blood vessels immediately, generally leading to little bruising. With little bruising and swelling, recovery time is generally short. Several of our patients have gone to work and light duties the very next day after the procedure. For most people we suggest taking a few days off of work.Some people say that Smart Lipo can tighten your skin.
The energy from the laser fiber can potentially coagulate the collagen in the skin layer, which some dermatologists have noted can lead to skin tightening that takes place over several months after surgery. Conventional liposuction will not do anything to tighten your skin.