Given that Smartlipo™ is a relatively new procedure in the cosmetic surgery world, it’s natural for patients to have questions about what the procedure can do for them.
At Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong will take the time to address any questions you have so you can feel comfortable about moving forward with liposuction. Some of our clients’ most frequently asked questions are listed below, but please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
Am I a good candidate for Smartlipo™?
Good candidates for Smartlipo™ will be in good mental and physical health. Candidates will have reached a healthy weight through diet and exercise before their consultation. Smartlipo™ is ideal for contouring those stubborn areas of fat that don’t respond to lifestyle modifications. Smartlipo™ can’t remove large quantities of fat, but it can help tighten up your figure and help reveal the shapely physique that you worked so hard for.
What makes Smartlipo™ different from regular liposuction?
Regular liposuction uses a combination of tumescent solution and cannula suction to loosen and remove fat cells. Smartlipo™ (also known as laser liposuction) works a little differently. Dr. Truong will use a focused laser to disrupt and loosen fat cells at your treatment site. These cells can either be removed from the body with a cannula, or left behind to be reabsorbed by the body’s natural processes. The laser is what sets Smartlipo™ apart – laser procedures can provide subtle contouring without excessive tissue damage or the need for general anesthesia, two common concerns with traditional liposuction.
Can Smartlipo™ help me lose weight?
No, just like traditional liposuction, Smartlipo™ is not a safe method of weight loss. Patients should have already reached their ideal body weight before their procedure, allowing Dr. Truong to assess potential problem areas and treat them accordingly. Smartlipo™ is an effective way to shape your body, but it cannot remove substantial amounts of fatty tissue.
How long will my contouring take?
One of the benefits of Smartlipo™ is its speed – procedures generally last only a couple hours. The specific length of your procedure will depend on your physical condition and the size of your treatment area. Smartlipo™ is performed on an outpatient basis without the need for general anesthesia, meaning that you’ll be back home and on your feet the very same day.
What should I expect during recovery?
Although every patient responds differently to the Smartlipo™ procedure, most patients can expect mild to moderate discomfort, swelling and sensitivity near the treatment site. Dr. Truong may recommend compression garments or specific medications to accelerate the healing process and ease your discomfort as much as possible. Two weeks of discomfort is typical, after which your symptoms will begin to subside and your results will start to become visible.
Will there be any scarring?
As with any procedure that requires incisions in the skin, some scarring will be present. However, the incisions needed to insert the cannula and remove treated fat cells is very small. Most patients can expect some mild discoloration at their surgery site, but scars are generally very minimal and tend to fade with time.
How long will it be before I see my results?
The results of Smartlipo™ will need some time before they become visible. Although you may begin to notice some subtle differences in your figure as your swelling subsides, the final results of your procedure will likely need several months to half a year before they can be seen. The final results of your Smartlipo™ procedure will depend on the size of your treatment area, your physical condition beforehand and how well you maintain your healthy habits after. With the right physical care and lifestyle choices, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of your Smartlipo™ treatment for years to come.