When it comes to eliminating stubborn fat, cosmetic surgery is one of the most effective and easiest ways to get the body you desire. But are you concerned about the drawbacks of traditional liposuction? Smart Lipo is a revolutionary body contouring procedure that minimizes any unwanted side effects, thanks to advanced surgical techniques. At Georgia Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Marietta, GA we are happy to help you get the best results and make you feel comfortable about this procedure.
What Makes Smart Lipo Different?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that works to permanently remove fat. It’s not primarily a weight loss procedure, but it’s aimed at those who would like to specifically target stubborn fat that can’t be eliminated through diet and exercise. With the help of a cannula connected to a suction-generating source, fat is removed from specific areas of the body. The most common areas for treatment are the abdomen, hips, thighs, and arms.
Are you wondering what makes Smart Lipo different compared to traditional liposuction? Both procedures have the same goal of permanently removing stubborn fat. Laser-assisted lipo is different because it uses a different technique, in a minimally invasive manner. You’ll enjoy unique benefits and a quicker recovery time. This procedure is most appropriate for those who would like to minimize the drawbacks of liposuction as a cosmetic surgery.
Fat Is Melted First
Laser-assisted lipo is the revolutionary version of traditional liposuction. It offers unique benefits and minimizes any drawbacks or side effects. During the surgery, we use a laser device that goes into the layer of fat with the help of a small cannula, or tube. The heat from the laser causes the unwanted fat to melt and soften first so that it is easier to suction out from your body.
Melting the fat first makes this procedure relatively safe and effective for body contouring. We use only powerful, medical-grade lasers to effectively rupture fat cells and melt them. Because the fat has been softened or melted first, they can be suctioned out easily and we can minimize any trauma caused by the procedure.
Local Anesthesia May Be Used
Are you worried about the idea of going under general anesthesia? Most traditional liposuction procedures require this. The good news is that laser-assisted lipo can be done with the help of only local anesthesia. No need to worry about the side effects caused by being put to sleep during your surgery.
You’ll also enjoy a faster recovery time with only the use of local anesthesia. Some patients can even take just the weekend off for their recovery. The more comfortable and at ease you are during the procedure, the easier it will be for you to heal.
Any Side Effects Are Minimized
Traditional liposuction may leave you with bruising and swelling, which may cause some people to worry. With Smart Lipo, you can worry less about these drawbacks because the procedure is considered minimally invasive. By melting the fat first, there is less trauma on the skin tissues. The heat from the lasers causes your small blood vessels to cauterize, so there is less bruising. The unique benefit is that you’ll be able to recover sooner and see the final results in a shorter time frame.
Results Appear Faster
Instead of waiting almost a month to recover from traditional liposuction, you can take as short as several days to get up and running after a laser-assisted lipo procedure. The average recovery time is seven days. Within a week, you should also notice visible results from the removal of fat, thanks to less swelling and bruising. With laser-assisted lipo, however, you might still need to wait for a few weeks before noticing any improvement in the firmness of your skin.
There Is a Reduced Risk of Scarring
Compared to other surgical methods for fat removal, laser-assisted lipo produces some of the smoothest results. It is less aggressive compared to traditional liposuction, but the benefits are just as amazing. Are you worried about the appearance of bumpy areas or scars? Thanks to the smaller incisions made during laser-assisted lipo, you can expect scars to look much smaller and noticeable. If you are getting fat removal in the arms or other exposed areas, you can enjoy even better results.
What Can You Expect Before, During, and After the Surgery?
Like any cosmetic procedure, Smart Lipo requires us to properly set your expectations and understand your unique goals. You must have realistic expectations for the surgery. We will do our best to ensure your comfort and safety on the day of your surgery, so you can focus on your fast recovery with a positive mindset about the results.
Consultation
It all starts when you walk into our office for an initial consultation. We will ask you about your goals for the procedure, take a look at your problem areas, and set proper expectations about the surgery. This part of the process is crucial for making sure that you get only the best possible results. We will also go over your lifestyle, current medications, and medical history. We will schedule the day of your surgery in advance, so you’ll have enough time to prepare.
Numbing and Administration of Anesthesia
On the day of your surgery, we will take photos so you can track the progress of your results. Next, we will mark the spots or incision marks before proceeding with the first phases of the surgery.
We will numb the areas of incision, which will serve as guides for inserting the laser and liposuction cannulas. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, we will insert the laser probe through layers of fat.
Melting and Removing Fat
The heat from the medical-grade laser causes the underlying fat to melt and soften. This makes it easier for us to remove and suction off the fat. Another cannula is used for the fat removal stage. Once complete, we will clean and disinfect the area to prevent infection. It should take about two hours for each area to be treated, from start to finish.
Post-Operation Counseling
Proper care after surgery is necessary. Once you have rested enough after the procedure, we will provide you with care instructions and prescribe any medication as needed. Following these instructions will help to minimize side effects and any discomfort you may subsequently experience.
Who Are the Ideal Candidates for the Procedure?
If you are frustrated with stubborn pockets of fat that can’t be eliminated through diet and exercise, Smart Lipo can bring you closer to your goals. Countless diet and exercise programs promise to help you eliminate specific areas of fatty tissue, but we know that “spot treatments” are impossible.
Do you want to feel happier about your body and want to see changes as soon as possible? To become an ideal candidate for this procedure, you’ll need to make healthy lifestyle changes to prepare for the surgery and keep the fat off.
You Are Living a Healthy Lifestyle
Those who adapt to a healthier lifestyle and are already observing good nutrition and proper exercise are the best candidates for a Smart Lipo. The goal of the procedure is to help you shed stubborn fat, or help you “spot treat” areas that you think would look perfect without the extra weight.
You do not have to be a fitness or nutrition enthusiast to qualify for the procedure. However, you’ll need to have the right mindset and personal accountability when it comes to maintaining the results from your surgery.
You Are Dealing With Stubborn Fat, Not Weight Issues
Laser-assisted lipo is not a weight loss procedure. If you are obese or extremely overweight, you may not see the best results from this procedure. We will advise you to adopt a healthier lifestyle to get closer to your goal weight first. Afterward, we can help you “fine-tune” your progress by surgically removing any remaining unwanted fat.
The Recovery Process
Complete healing takes about an average of one week. As healthcare providers, we’re here to help you go through the recovery process more smoothly and minimize any drawbacks from the surgery. When recovering from your Smart Lipo, you must observe proper care and follow all post-surgery instructions.
Get Proper Rest
The procedure is not as invasive as traditional liposuction. However, this doesn’t mean that you can skip recovery and rest. As with all surgical procedures, you will still need to give your body time to recuperate. If possible, clear your schedule or get additional help for at least a day or two. Make sure you have a comfortable resting place, and that you have all your medical supplies nearby.
Use Compression Garments
Compression garments help minimize swelling and bruising. With the help of pressure, you can help your body recover and feel more comfortable during the healing process. The right compression garment will help to prevent excessive fluid buildup.
In instances where fluid does accumulate, it will help your body absorb fluids much easier. You may wear your compression garments for a few weeks, and continue using them for added comfort and support.
Avoid Strenuous Activities
It can take about a week before you’ll be able to resume your day to day activities. Until then, you should avoid strenuous activities and get rest as much as possible. Now is a great time to keep yourself entertained with the help of books and magazines. If you need to care for your children or household, you can limit yourself to light activities. If you can, seek additional assistance when you’re starting to feel strained.
Stop Smoking
We might advise you to stop smoking even before the procedure, but you will certainly need to kick the habit during your recovery time. The chemicals you inhale while smoking can slow down your recovery process and deprive your body of much-needed oxygen. It also causes stress to your heart, affects your blood pressure, and damages your lungs.
Attend Follow-Up Checkups
We may ask you to visit our clinic for a follow-up checkup. During these brief appointments, we will examine the treated areas and ensure that you are healing as expected. We will also make sure that you are free from any infections and are recovering comfortably. By following the care instructions we will give to you, soon you’ll be ready to flaunt your new body and be proud of the results we’ve achieved!
Restore Your Confidence and Look Your Best With Smart Lipo
Getting the body of your dreams doesn’t have to come with drawbacks and any unwanted side effects. Guided by the right medical team, you can make the best decisions and choose the ideal treatment that will bring you closer to your goals. You deserve to look and feel your best! Contact Georgia Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Marietta, GA today to schedule your consultation. We cannot wait to help you make a positive difference in your life!
