SmartLipo
Smart Lipo is a cutting-edge cosmetic procedure which was originally founded in Europe, but has found its way to the United States and received FDA approval in 2006. This method of removing fat from unwanted areas is quickly becoming a cost effective alternative to the traditional liposuction procedure. Patients around the country are learning about and becoming interested in Smart Lipo for the fast healing time and comparatively fewer risks associated with the technique.
Procedure
Smart Lipo can be used in combination with other traditional therapies or on its own, depending on the needs of the individual patient. During this procedure, the technician will place a small tube, called a cannula, between the skin and the layer of fat that the patient wishes to be removed. A tiny laser is located on the tip of this tube. When the tube is in position, the technician will activate the laser which will then heat the fat. As this laser moves over the fat deposits, the fat will combust and turn into a liquid consistency which can then by sucked away by the tube. At the same time the laser is melting the fat away, it is also shrinking the collagen nearby. Since the laser is calibrated to a specific frequency, it is also able to cauterize the small blood vessels leaving less bleeding for the patient. During this process, minimal fat is reabsorbed by the body.
Ideal Candidate for Smart Lipo
This procedure is not for everyone and patients wishing to see the best results should be relatively healthy individuals to begin with. People that are within twenty-five pounds of their ideal weight are seen as suitable candidates. Additionally, the areas that the individual wishes to be treated traditionally do not respond well to diet and exercise. Bothersome areas best treated with Smart Lipo include the thighs, hips, upper arms, and buttocks.
Benefits
There are a multitude of benefits in using Smart Lipo as compared with the traditional liposuction procedure. One main benefit is that general anesthesia is not used, which leaves the patient with fewer side effects than with standard liposuction. Additionally, Smart Lipo is less invasive as only a small hole is needed. With the laser’s heat shutting off blood vessels on contact, less bleeding and bruising is experienced by the patient. Individuals undergoing Smart Lipo can plan on returning to normal activities and work within twenty-four hours after the procedure.
Risks
Although the risks involved in Smart Lipo are less than those of traditional liposuction, there are some possibilities every patient should keep in mind. After undergoing this procedure there will be a certain amount of redness and swelling in the treated area which may persist for one to two days after the treatment. Some patients may also find Smart Lipo painful. If this is the case, local anesthesia and pain medications can be utilized to minimize the effects.
For patients looking for a less invasive procedure, there are a variety of alternatives to choose from including VelaShape, VelaSmooth, Lipodissolve, and Mesotherapy.
Cost
Smart Lipo typically costs around $4,500 in the United States. The range runs between $3,000 and $6,000 based on national averages. Another aspect to keep in mind while considering the costs of Smart Lipo is that it is typically considered a cosmetic procedure, so most insurance companies will not cover or reimburse the expense.
What to expect
Patients undergoing Smart Lipo treatment should enjoy the effects of the procedure indefinitely. However, as with all fat removing procedures, if the patient returns to an unhealthy lifestyle and does not eat right or exercise, the fat may return to the treated area.
With advances in technology, revolutionary techniques like Smart Lipo are created which offer safer and more efficient alternatives to the traditional fat removing procedures. Smart Lipo can be utilized as a treatment option to help sculpt patients into the body of their dreams. With just a small laser and minimal incisions, certain patients can experience the body of their dreams.
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