Body Procedures
Liposuction (or lipoplasty) is a body-sculpting procedure to remove fat that is unresponsive to dieting and exercising. This procedure can be applied to nearly any area of the body and is commonly used on multiple areas during an operation. Liposuction results in a slimmer and better proportioned figure. Liposuction is used effectively to reduce love handles, saddlebags, a double-chin, a bulge around the waistline, or other unsightly fatty deposits in order to develop a better shape and create a more beautiful body.
At South Shore Plastic Surgery, Dr. Vasisht also offers SMARTLIPO, or laser body sculpting. This is a revolutionary procedure that has changed the concept of liposuction and made it easier to have the procedure performed in the office setting.
How smartlipo works
The Smartlipo laser-assisted lipolysis system is a highly efficient solution for destroying and permanently eliminating fat cells:
- A 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser fiber is introduced through a small cannula, delivering energy directly to subcutaneous fat cells-causing them to rupture. The emitted fat melting energy also coagulates tissue, thus inducing collagen retraction and tissue tightening.
- The laser causes small blood vessels to coagulate immediately—resulting in less bleeding, swelling and bruising than conventional liposuction, for faster healing and recovery.
- Smartlipo can supplement or augment traditional methods of cellulite treatment.
- Given the cannula’s small size and gentleness of the procedure, Smartlipo is a minimally invasive treatment that only requires local anesthesia—enhancing patient safety and reducing the likelihood of side effects.
- A confluent red diode laser provides a powerful visual guide during treatment.
- Typically only one short treatment session is needed—depending on the area that is to be treated.
Reasons for considering smartlipo:
- Eliminate fat from any of the following areas:
- Chin and Neckline
- Back
- Upper Arms
- Stomach and Waistline
- Hips and Buttocks
- Thighs and Knees
- Calves and Ankles
- Create a more proportioned figure
SmartLipo is not a replacement for proper exercise and diet. Instead, liposuction is a reduction procedure for stubborn areas where fat accumulates. Used in combination with several areas of the body, liposuction can provide a well proportioned body appearance. Ideal surgical candidates are those already in good physical condition but having stubborn areas that do not respond to diet and exercise.
General procedure
Liposuction can be done under general anesthesia with the patient asleep, but SmartLipo can be performed under local anesthesia where the area is numbed and the patient remains awake. Through a tiny incision, a narrow tube or “cannula” is inserted and used to vacuum out the fatty tissue beneath the skin. The surgeon determines the amount of fat to be removed by massaging the skin and squeezing the tissue. After eliminating the excess fat, the incisions are closed by applying a compression dressing or bandage to the area in order to prevent bleeding, reduce swelling, and support the affected area.
There are several different types of liposuction procedures, such as tumescent or ultrasound liposuction, and as discussed above SmartLipo, that have developed as a result of recent advancements in new technologies. Together the patient and the surgeon can discuss which method(s) are best during the initial consultation visit. Liposuction can last from thirty minutes to several hours depending upon the amount of fat to be removed. Liposuction surgery is an excellent procedure that can benefit those who want to remove unattractive fatty deposits.
Recovery process
New techniques allow for faster recovery from liposuction procedures. The length of the recovery will depend on how extensive of an operation the patient undergoes. Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time. A support garment may need to be worn for several weeks after the surgery, depending upon which area(s) are selected to utilize the liposuction procedure. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery which can be treated effectively with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize the risk for potential problems by carefully following the directions given after surgery.
