FYI Cosmetics

The number one fastest growing cosmetic procedure in the United States is SmartLipo™. This is one of the first laser assisted liposuction procedures that effectively destroys and permanently eliminates fat cells. Manufactured by Cynosure, the device has been FDA approved since November 2006. SmartLipo™ uses 1064 Nd: YAG laser light to melt fat and destroy fat cells, making it far less invasive than traditional liposuction.

While anyone can be a candidate for SmartLipo™ the ideal candidate is within 25 lbs of their ideal weight and exercises regularly. SmartLipo™ works best on small areas of localized fat deposits, especially areas that have not or do not responded to diet and exercise. Those who need to lose a significant amount of fat will not achieve satisfactory results and will have a more effective treatment with traditional liposuction. Since SmartLipo™ best treats small areas, the total surgery time is decreased. Minimal bruising, minimal pain, and quicker recovery times add to the benefits of the laser assisted treatment.

Similar to traditional liposuction, a tumescent solution is injected under the skin in the area to be treated. Tumescent fluid is a special solution of saline, anesthetic and epinephrine used to assist in numbing the site, minimize bleeding, decrease bruising and aide in the removal of the liquefied fat. Once the skin is infused with the solution, an optical fiber attached to a very small cannula (wand-like tube), is then inserted under the skin. The tip of the cannula or probe is then touched to the fat cells causing them to rupture and liquefy. The fat is then easily suctioned away with minimal effort. The laser energy will help coagulate blood vessels and the concentrated heat generated by the laser will stimulate the collagen to contract and tighten the skin. Since smaller areas are treated as well as smaller probes the treatment is considered minimally invasive and therefore can be done under local anesthesia or IV sedation. A minimally invasive procedure also means faster results with fewer complications. SmartLipo™ reports faster healing times and most patients can be back to work within 2 days and have bandages off in 2 weeks or less.

Treatment with SmartLipo™ generally results in less swelling and bleeding as compared to traditional liposuction methods. Usually only one 45 minute session is needed. After the procedure, a pressure garment may be applied to help decrease swelling. Most normal activities can be resumed in as little as 24 hours. Results can be seen soon after the procedure, with treated areas appearing tighter and smaller, however the best results are usually seen in 6-8 weeks. SmartLipo™ is ideal for localized pockets of fat or areas that have been resistant to traditional liposuction. The dimpling, rippling, bumps and pockets that have often been associated with traditional liposuction outcomes are generally not seen with SmartLipo. The results when performed by a skilled surgeon can be nearly perfect.

Additionally it should be noted that liposuction in any form will not improve cellulite or other skin surface irregularities, including stretch marks. It is also is not a method of weight loss.
It is important to establish realistic expectations with your doctor. As with any surgical procedure, a consultation with your certified cosmetic surgeon will be able to answer all of your questions regarding SmartLipo and liposuction. Costs can range nationally from $3000- $4000 for one area.

Fat reduction via liposuction is a treatment that has been in existence for years, but traditional liposuction is very invasive and carries with it a certain amount of risk. As technology has progressed, various alternative liposuction treatments have been developed that produce the same fat reduction results as liposuction, but with less risk, less pain and less downtime. Whether you are aiming to remove a significant amount of weight or are more interested in toning and contouring specific facial or body areas, there is a liposuction alternative that can help. Before choosing a treatment, it is important to do plenty of research on the various procedures in order to find the one that can get you the fat reduction results you desire.

Consistent exercise and a balanced diet are two key components to fighting the battle against unwanted fat; however, sometimes these factors alone simply aren’t enough. As men and women age, certain areas of the face and body simply stop responding to everyday methods of weight reduction and body contouring. Because of this, various alternative liposuction treatments, both invasive and non-invasive, have been developed in order to help individuals achieve the toned and contoured look they desire. The following are various treatments that are more technologically advanced than traditional liposuction, yet provide similar if not better results.

Lipodissolve –Those men and women who are relatively fit ye are having trouble reducing excess fat in specific problem areas can greatly benefit from the Lipodissolve treatment. This liposuction alternative involves tiny injections into the subcutaneous layers of fat where the unwanted fat deposits reside. The Lipodissolve injections are comprised of a combination of substances such as vitamins, enzymes and phosphatidolcholine (a natural soy substance). This injection is designed to promote an increase in fat metabolism which leads to an efficient breakdown of problem fatty deposits which can then be naturally absorbed and removed from the body; the results—a smoother, more contoured shape.

Lipotite™ – Lipotite is a non-surgical lipo contouring alternative to liposuction that can dramatically reduce unwanted fat, improve skin tone and texture and reduce inches–painlessly. There are several non-surgical, minimally invasive laser body sculpting treatments currently available to consumers, but none can provide as dramatic results as Lipotite. By combining the power of both mesotherapy and RF (radio frequency), fat reduction results are significant. Mesotherapy involves the use of medication compounds injected into the localized areas of fat which works to break down fat cells for natural removal. RF technology works to promote the natural growth of collagen beneath the skin; this can help to tighten loose and sagging skin for a more contoured shape. These two treatments, when combined into one, can reduce unwanted fat and tighten skin for a smoother, tighter appearance.

Lipotherme™ Laser Lipolysis – Lipotherme by Osyris is one laser assisted lipolysis technique currently available that is designed to remove unwanted fat cells using laser energy. This innovative treatment offers all the benefits of traditional liposuction, but is unique in that it is generally recommended for smaller areas of excess fat that do not respond as well to conventional liposuction. During the procedure, a hollow tube called a cannula is inserted into the skin in areas of increased fat stores. The laser is introduced through the cannula and as it is touched to the fat, it liquefies it. In addition to localized fat reduction, the thermal effect of the laser also causes the skin to become tighter through contraction for effective body contouring in less time than traditional liposuction.

SmartLipo™ Laser Lipolysis – SmartLipo is a different form of laser lipolysis that also utilizes laser light for less invasive, more effective treatments. SmartLipo is significantly less invasive than traditional liposuction because it requires only a single incision for the introduction of the laser into the body. The laser light works to effectively liquefy excess fat cells making them easier to remove. This minimally invasive fat reduction procedure is virtually painless, requires next to no downtime and provides the same fantastic results as traditional liposuction treatments; all with much less risk. The fat reduction results speak for themselves.

Different liposuction alternatives may prove to provide better results depending on your individual needs. Consult with your physician and see what fat reduction techniques can get you the results you are looking for. One of the various alternatives to liposuction treatment just may get you the smooth, contoured shape you’ve always wanted.