Dr Michael Kaplan - Missouri Smartlipo

Conventional liposuction can be a treatment which yields more side effects and risk than some patients care to experience when considering fat reduction procedures. If small pockets of fat remain where diet and exercise failed, Smartlipo can be the optimal procedure of choice. As our society rains down the ever-growing pressures of looking beautiful and fit, more men and women desire to look their best, to feel a sense of self-satisfaction and confidence in appearance.

Smartlipo reduces areas of fat that are too difficult to lose naturally. It uses a laser to melt away fat deposits safely and effectively. Usually performed as an outpatient procedure, Smartlipo is minimally invasive and the lasers (often referred to as 'laser liposuction') shape and contour the body with higher levels of safety than conventional liposuction. As an added bonus, the lasers used in Smartlipo help to tighten the applied area, which often result in more youthful-looking skin.

The actual lipolysis procedure is simple in its methodology. A local anesthetic is applied to the area of fat being treated and a 1mm laser probe is inserted into that fat, carefully guided through the area liquefying the fat (which will subsequently be absorbed by the lymphatic system before being excreted). Recovery time is usually expedient; a patient can normally return to daily routines by the next day, though the doctor will recommend that a compression garment be worn around the treated area for up to two weeks. When compared to conventional liposuction, Smartlipo has very little pain, bruising or swelling. Both procedures are tried and true, though of course a potential candidate should consult with a plastic surgeon to determine which is more suitable.

Another positive 'side effect' of Smartlipo is that its cost is relatively less than that of actual liposuction. Results are assuredly safe and effective and only a minor number of cases require a follow-up second procedure. It is regarded to be one of the most painless cosmetic surgeries performed.