Smart Lipo: Laser Liposuction
What is Laser Liposuction?
Smart Lipo or Laser liposuction involves using a laser to melt fat cells which are then removed using liposuction.
What are the advantages of Smart Lipo?
There are many advantages of Smart Lipo over traditional liposuction. Firstly, the laser melts the fat and seals blood vessels. This means less bruising and swelling after the procedure and a quicker return to normal activity. As the fat is melted, rather than just sucked out it means that more fat disappears during the few weeks after the procedure. Secondly, the laser helps to gently heat the skin, causing the skin to tighten for months after the Smart lipo. Indeed the results tend to improve for up to 6 months.
How is Laser Lipo carried out?
Smart Lipo can be carried out as an outpatient procedure with sedation, rather than a general anaesthetic. A small needle is used to infiltrate the area with local anaesthetic and then a small 3mm tube is inserted into the fat to deliver the laser beam.. This is painless and only seeks to heat the fat up to around 400C. This has the effect of melting the fat. A traditional liposuction device is then used to remove the melted fat. This is much more gentle than traditional liposuction and easier for both the patient and the surgeon. The liquid fat can then be seen being sucked out.
The device used is the Cynosure Smart Lipo MPX device
Where can be treated?
Any area that you have troublesome fat deposits can be treated, the most popular being the tummy and thighs. The technique can also be used to tighten fatty slack neck skin and either supplement or replace the need for a facelift.
How much can be removed?
As with all techniques of liposuction, it is not possible to radically change your weight using Smart Lipo, however troublesome areas such as you stomach or thighs can be vastly improved. You will feel like your clothes fit better.
What can go wrong?
Smart Lipo is a cosmetic surgery procedure and is best carried out by a qualified Plastic Surgeon in a clinic or hospital with clean air circulation. I always have an anaesthetist present to improve your comfort, pain relief and safety.
The most common problems after Smart Lipo are a bit of swelling for a week or so and some oozing of fluid from the small incisions for the liposuction handpiece. This is normal and little more than an inconvenience. There is a possibility of infection and bleeding after any procedure, which may require antibiotics or, rarely, admission to hospital. Sometimes some skin surface irregularity may occur, though this may be correctable at a second procedure.
Where is this available?
At present I only provide Smart Lipo through the Kirkwood Fyfe Clinic in Aberdeen. If you would like further information or would like me to book an appointment please call 0800 334 5153, fill in the online contact form, or go to the Kirkwood Fyfe website directly.