What is SmartLipo?

SmartLipo is the latest method for removing fat with a laser. The technique was first used in Europe and received clearance from the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) in November 2006.

The technique has been used extensively in South America, Europe and Asia for the past 10 years. SmartLipo involves the use of a laser to rapidly dissolve the fat and tighten the surrounding skin almost anywhere in the body. The procedure is done in a doctor's office and is done under local anesthetic.

How does SmartLipo work?

A paperclip-thin cannula (tube) approximately 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm in diameter containing a laser fiber is inserted beneath the skin. The cannula is gently moved back and forth delivering the laser's energy directly to the fat cells, causing them to rupture. The fluid release from the fat cells is drained away by the body's natural system (lymphatics). The laser energy also interacts with the dermis, resulting in collagen shrinkage.

SmartLipo is a minimally invasive procedure and performed under local anesthesia. The laser causes small blood vessels to coagulate immediately on contact, resulting in less bleeding, swelling and bruising, and a quicker recovery time than conventional liposuction.

Who is a candidate for the SmartLipo laser body sculpting procedure?

SmartLipo is an excellent technique for removal of fat from difficult areas of the body. It is more efficient at removing fat from localized pockets which have proven resistant to conventional liposuction or exercise. The ideal patient is one who is in good health, not obese, has an active lifestyle, and has a pocket(s) of fat they wish to remove.

SmartLipo is not suitable for patients with diabetes, liver problems, blood disorders, kidney problems, heart problems, or skin disorders.

What body regions can be treated with SmartLipo?

SmartLipo is ideal for treating the unwanted fat of the abdomen, flanks (love handles), face, neck, inner and outer thighs, hips, knees, arms, male breasts (gynecomastia), and areas of loose and flabby skin.

Does SmartLipo provide lasting results?

SmartLipo permanently removes fat cells. If you gain weight after the procedure, excess fat will be deposited in areas where the procedure was not performed.

What is the recovery like?

The majority of individuals have minimal bruising and pain. A pressure dressing or a compression garment is used to help to decrease the swelling. Most individuals are able to resume their normal activities, including exercise, within 24 hours.

Does SmartLipo remove cellulite and/or stretch marks?

Many patients have seen marked improvements in both cellulite and stretch marks but SmartLipo is not a treatment for either. Aspasia offers cellulite treatments using the Tri-Active (add link) system.

When do I see the results?

Results can be seen as soon as a week with the treated area appearing tighter, compact and smaller. Within the next several weeks, the skin and surrounding area will remodel and adjust to the body contour. The remodeling is a gradual process and the best results are seen after 3-6 months.

How many treatments will I need?

For most patients, typically only one treatment is required. The session may last from 45 minutes to one hour for each area treated.

Who performs the SmartLipo laser body sculpting procedure?

The procedure is performed by Jaime Gutierrez, MD who has had extensive training in laser body sculpting, including training in Porto Alegre, Brazil with world-renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Alberto Goldman of the Clinica Goldman de Cirurgia Plastica, who has a been performing SmartLipo Laser Body Sculpting for the past decade.

Who performs the SmartLipo laser body sculpting procedure?

The procedure is performed by a medical doctor who has had extensive training in laser body sculpting.

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