First introduced by Cynosure in 2006, Smartlipo is an alternative to the traditional liposuction technique as it uses a highly efficient process associated with very low pains. It uses a smaller instruments and specialized technology to get rid of fats cells and to contour and reshape parts of the body such as the abdomen, thighs, hips knees, love handles and other parts. It is a better way to improve body toning, reduction of cellulite as well as promotion of skin tightening.

It utilizes a laser technology with a precise and powerful beam that is created and specifically calibrated to liquefy fat deposits through the top layers of the skin by rupturing the fat cells. The tube or cannula containing the laser fiber is inserted in the skin and is moved forth spreading the laser energy to the fat cells causing them to melt and easily drain away. The surgeon makes a small incision in the patient’s skin to remove the resulting oily liquid substance. The laser can also seal blood vessels by coagulating them immediately on contact as it zaps the fat resulting in less swelling, bleeding and bruising. This process takes place when the patient is under local anesthesia and thus caries fewer risks as compared to traditional liposuction. It is a minimally invasive procedure due to the small size of the tube.

Smart lipo is not for everyone and those who are considering it should meets some requirements such as:

l Good health and regular exercises

l Is within 25 lbs of their ideal weight

l Has one or more areas of local fat deposits that have failed to respond to diet and exercise

l Is bothered with the fatty areas

l The candidates should not be obese.

Those who meet these requirements should make appointments with the smartlipo surgeons who will asses whether the candidate qualifies after checking medical records. He will also discuss the patients their objectives and clearly stating what the process will achieve. Those with medical conditions such as Diabetes, Kidney, heart and blood disorders are not qualified candidates for Smart lipo.

The procedure comes with variety of advantages including reduced recovery time. Since the process is less invasive and only a small incision is made, it requires less recovery time and some patients can even get back to work immediately. It also comes with less discomfort as there is no pain and has minimal bruises and swelling. The whole process, as compared traditional liposuction, is less traumatic as only a tiny scar is made and this is usually done where the skin creases so as to hide it. The area does not bleed after the procedure thus compression garments are optional. It needs less post operative care as the skin looks normal just 3 months after the operation. The greatest advantage of this procedure is that it is safer as it has less bleeding and anesthesia used thus reducing risks associated with general anesthesia.