Smartlipo™, also known as laser-assisted liposuction, is a relatively new technological advancement in body contouring. Using bursts of laser energy, Smartlipo can effectively remove targeted deposits of unwanted fat, while also shrinking collagen to tighten loose skin and improve your body contour.
Dr. Gotkin is internationally known for having perfected the use of Smartlipo™ and Smartlipo TriPlex, the newest generation of laser liposuction. In addition, he has incorporated its use in his signature laser-assisted lipoabdominoplasty, or better known as the Ipanema Tummy Tuck.
Smartlipo is a safe, minimally invasive procedure that can effectively treat areas of unwanted fat. While all types of liposuction are capable of improving your appearance and increasing self-confidence, it is important to have realistic expectations and cosmetic goals for the procedure.
Good candidates for Smartlipo are:
Smartlipo is not an alternative to weight loss. It is ideal for men and women who have F.R.E.D. – Fat Resistant to Exercise and Diet – areas of excess fat in, for example, the abdomen, hips, flanks, back, arms, legs, thighs or neck that they just cannot seem to get rid of despite maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine. Smartlipo can also be performed in conjunction with other popular facial rejuvenation and body contouring procedures.
Laser-assisted liposuction may not be for everyone. To find out if you are an ideal candidate, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gotkin at Cosmetique. Factors such as your medical history, current medications and cosmetic goals will be considered during your personal consultation process.
This procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia and requires less than one hour to complete. Dr. Gotkin begins by making several tiny incisions in each treatment area. A thin laser fiber is passed through a cannula (a narrow, hollow tube, 1-2mm in diameter), and the cannula is inserted in the incisions. The laser fiber is like a strand of uncooked capellini. Throughout the procedure, laser energy is precisely delivered to the fat cells; the fat cells then rupture, liquefy and subsequently are easily removed by gentle suction.
Because of the small size of the incisions, few or no stitches are required for closure. Following the fat removal, an elasticized compression garment will be placed around the treatment area to minimize swelling and promote healing.
Smartlipo, because it is less traumatic than traditional liposuction, requires less downtime than the traditional procedure. Immediately following your Smartlipo procedure, you may experience some minor swelling, bruising, numbness or discomfort. This is likely to subside within a few days. One to two days of downtime from work is recommended, though many patients are capable of resuming work the following day. Your recovery and downtime are proportional to the number of areas treated and the extent of treatment. More strenuous activities may be resumed within two weeks.
The results of your procedure will become gradually apparent as swelling and bruising subsides. More than one treatment may be necessary to achieve optimal results. The final results – visible in about 6 months – will be permanent; significant weight fluctuations and the normal aging process, however, will impact your long-term appearance.
Find out if you’re a candidate for laser-assisted liposuction by contacting Cosmetique Dermatology, Laser & Plastic Surgery, LLP. We have two convenient New York locations, on Park Avenue in New York City and on Northern Blvd in Greenvale. Call us today or send an email to inquire about a consultation for Smartlipo.
Call 212.794.4000 today to make an inquiry or schedule a confidential appointment at our Manhattan Office.
For Long Island, please call 516.484.9000.
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