SmartLipo Frequently Asked Questions

Do you eat well and exercise regularly but still have problem areas of fat accumulation? Do you want to realize your physical potential? Smart Lipo (also called laser-assisted liposuction or laser lipolysis) is an FDA-approved body contouring procedure for removing unwanted fat and bulges. It also has the added benefit of boosting your self-esteem. You might be curious about how Smart Liposuction works, how it differs from traditional liposuction, and what is included in Smart Lipo 360. We’ll answer all of your questions and walk you through the process so you can make the best decision possible. Let’s look at some of the most frequently asked questions to see if Smart Lipo is the right solution for you.

How Does SmartLipo Work?

Smart Lipo is a laser-assisted liposuction procedure that removes excess fat and tightens loose skin. A small cannula or tube with a laser fiber is inserted into the layer of fat in the treatment area through very small incisions. Fat cells liquefy due to the laser’s heat, making them easy to suction out of your body. The procedure also stimulates collagen production, giving your skin a firmer, smoother appearance.

Smart Lipo generates heat without causing harm to nearby nerves, blood vessels, or soft tissues. Smart Lipo causes significantly less bleeding because the laser catalyzes the immediate coagulation of nearby blood vessels.

What are Common Treatment Areas for the Smart Liposuction Procedure?

Smart Lipo is designed to target common trouble spots that tend to collect fat deposits. These areas include:

Abdomen
Flanks (also known as the love handles)
Upper and lower back
Arms
Neck, chin, and jowls
Knees
Hips
Thighs

A surgeon can perform liposuction on multiple areas of the body in one session. It’s also possible to combine it with other cosmetic surgery procedures like a Brazilian Butt Lift. We create a personalized treatment plan for each of our Philadelphia patients based on their body type and goals.

What is the Difference Between Smart Lipo and Traditional Liposuction?

Traditional (non-laser) and SmartLipo (laser-assisted) are the two main types of liposuction. Traditional liposuction and SmartLipo effectively remove body fat, but there are some key differences between the two procedures.

Benefits of SmartLipo Philadelphia

Minimally invasive
Generally very safe
The laser can precisely target areas
It uses a local anesthetic, so you're awake and able to communicate with the physician and staff
Stimulates collagen production, which tightens and shrinks the skin
Less pain
Very minimal scarring since the incisions are small and don't require stitches
Less swelling and bruising
Minimal downtime, with most Philadelphia area patients back to work and normal activities in 3-4 days
Compression garments only need to be worn 1-4 weeks
Results occur more quickly, typically immediately or after a week post-procedure

Some patients have larger or multiple areas to address, which can be effective with SmartLipo. The procedure is not for everyone and is not a treatment for obesity.

Drawbacks of Traditional Liposuction

Invasive procedure using physical manipulation to suction fat from beneath the skin
Uses general anesthesia
It does not provide any skin tightening benefits
Increased possibility of dimpling or sagging after the procedure, particularly with older patients who have less skin elasticity
Requires a longer recovery time
More intense side effects and significant pain can sometimes occur
Requires compression garments for up to 3 months
Significant scarring and stitches from larger incisions
Results are not noticeable for 2-4 weeks

What Is SmartLipo 360?

Smart Lipo 360 is a popular procedure in Philadelphia for patients who want complete liposuction around their midsection. The abdomen, flanks (or love handles), and lower back are all included in this type of treatment. You can achieve a more natural-looking, balanced appearance by undergoing this 360-degree procedure. It also reduces unwanted waist fat and highlights other curves (like the buttocks).

The term “Lipo 360” is used to describe the areas that are treated by liposuction. Lipo 360 is not a specific device or piece of equipment. See our SmartLipo 360 procedure article for more information.

How Much Fat Can Be Removed with Laser Liposuction?

The amount of fat that can be safely removed during the Smart Lipo procedure varies from patient to patient. The amount of fat in the targeted area, the proportion of fat in your body, and your weight are all factors to consider. You can expect that up to 90% of the subcutaneous (“pinchable”) fat in the treatment area can be removed. In general, the maximum amount of fat that can be removed in a single session is five liters.

Who is a Good Candidate for SmartLipo Philadelphia?

Smart Lipo Philadelphia The Lumen Center is best for people with a BMI of 30 or less, who are in good health and want to target common “problem” areas. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, liposuction is not a weight-loss solution and should be used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle. SmartLipo has helped both men and women, as well as younger and older patients.

Smart Lipo also takes into account skin elasticity. The skin tightening effect is one of the most significant advantages of SmartLipo. That being said, people who already have good skin elasticity often benefit the most from the treatment’s tightening effects. The lasers can help smooth your skin and make it firm. Renuvion^® Skin Tightening, also known as J-Plasma, and the non-surgical tummy tuck are also available. Renuvion is a cutting-edge skin tightening procedure that shrinks and sculpts sagging skin. It can be used in conjunction with liposuction to improve your results or as a standalone treatment to tighten the skin in various areas of your body.

The Smartlipo treatment can produce dramatic results, but you and your surgeon should still discuss expectations before your liposuction surgery.

When Would I Start Seeing Results?

Many patients in Philadelphia see results right away or within a week of the procedure. However, SmartLipo often takes a while to produce skin changes. Within 3-4 weeks, the skin will begin to tighten, and it will continue to tighten for the next 4-6 months.

How Much Does SmartLipo Philadelphia Cost?

In the Philadelphia area, the average cost of a SmartLipo procedure for one treatment area ranges from $4,000 to $8,000. However, at SmartLipo Philadelphia The Lumen Center, we determine the price based on many factors, including the types of areas of the body and the number of areas being treated. Your team’s abilities and experience are also important factors to consider. Dr. Andrew Kwak’s nearly two decades of experience in cosmetic surgery and his artistic eye make him a body contouring specialist. When determining the cost of a SmartLipo procedure, these factors and any other cosmetic goals you have are considered.

Our Philadelphia patients consider SmartLipo to be a life-changing investment that is well worth the money. You’ll leave feeling more confident with the body you’ve always desired, which is priceless.

How Can I Learn More about Smart Lipo Philadelphia?

SmartLipo is a very personal decision, and you should think about all of the information, your commitment to a healthy lifestyle, and your comfort level with your surgical team before deciding where you want to undergo the procedure.

A free consultation at our office in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, is the best way to learn more about the laser liposuction procedure. At SmartLipo Philadelphia The Lumen Center, you’ll meet with Dr. Andrew Kwak and the staff one-on-one. At the consultation, we’ll determine if you’re a good candidate and talk about your goals and expected outcomes.

We look forward to giving you an exceptional experience while helping you look and feel your best! Call us today at 610.922.4040 or complete this form to book your consultation.