Laser Lipolysis

Smart Lipo (Laser Lipolysis) is a process of melting excess accumulated fat in a specific area using a special laser beam inserted into a small tube called a cannula. Although this procedure is generally recommended for small areas, it offers the same level of advantages as traditional liposuction while leading to fewer postoperative complications and less trouble during the recovery period. In fact, this procedure is particularly popular for correcting the region known as the ‘double chin’ and reshaping neck contours.

Who is a Suitable Candidate for Laser Lipolysis (SmartLipo)?

Typically, every candidate for traditional liposuction is also a candidate for laser lipolysis. Specifically, they should not have chronic diseases such as uncontrolled diabetes and heart disease and should be at most 30 kg over their ideal weight. An ideal candidate should have maintained their weight steadily for an average of one year. Additionally, having good skin elasticity in the treated areas is an advantage for achieving a better appearance during the recovery period.

How Does Smartlipo ™ Work?

A very small cannula or tube with a diameter of approximately 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, containing a laser fiber inside, is inserted into the skin. This cannula is moved back and forth, breaking down the fat cells under the skin with the energy created by the laser beam. Simultaneously, it also seals blood vessels in the same area, allowing for easier and less damaging tissue extraction compared to other techniques, resulting in less bleeding after the operation. Moreover, the laser energy stimulates the collagen in the skin, tightening it, thus reducing sagging after the fat is melted.

In modern 2nd Generation Laser Liposuction devices, increased power allows for the removal of larger amounts of fat. Recently, it has been debated whether Laser Liposuction could be a complementary method in cases where a large amount of fat needs to be removed after the classical liposuction, benefiting from its skin-tightening property.

Ultimately, when the Laser Liposuction method is used in the right patient and in skilled hands, it can yield pleasing results.

How is Laser Lipolysis (SmartLipo) Performed?

Unlike traditional liposuction, laser lipolysis does not use suction techniques. Instead, it is inserted into the cannula housing used in laser liposuction to liquefy the fat. Later, the liquefied fat is removed from the body through very small incisions (1-2mm).

Anesthesia in Laser Lipolysis (SmartLipo)

This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. However, for multi-zone liposculpture operations, sedation anesthesia is preferred for patient comfort.

Risks and Complications in Laser Lipolysis (SmartLipo)

While SmartLipo is less invasive compared to traditional liposuction, it still involves surgery and carries some of the same risks. Common risks and complications include hematoma (accumulation of blood under the skin), infection, bruising, and scarring. Less common risks include excessive bleeding, shock, or burns to the skin or underlying tissues. (These risks are extremely rare in SmartLipo.)

Recovery Period (SmartLipo)

Most patients can return to work within 24 hours. There is usually little to no pain after the operation, and any discomfort can be managed with simple painkillers. Bruising is almost nonexistent. There might be some swelling after laser liposuction, which typically subsides on its own within 7-15 days. A compression garment should be worn for 3 weeks after the operation. The body begins to take shape from the third month onwards and reaches its final form in 6 – 8 months.