SmartLipo versus Traditional Liposuction: Do You Know The Difference?
For decades, many patients have relied on liposuction to remove unwanted fat from specific areas of their bodies. Though traditional liposuction remains reliable, aesthetic doctors have employed laser technology to simplify and refine this treatment. SmartLipo uses laser-assisted tools to more precisely and safely eliminate fat cells in patients.
You can schedule a consultation with your cosmetic physician to learn more about how SmartLipo can help you achieve your body contouring goals. Read on to find three major differences between traditional liposuction and SmartLipo using advanced laser technology.
SmartLipo Uses a Smaller Cannula
A major difference between traditional liposuction and SmartLipo is that SmartLipo uses a smaller cannula or tube in its procedure. In both treatments, the doctor makes a small incision and inserts a tube to suction out fat cells from the body.
SmartLipo does not need a larger tube because it employs laser technology to break up the fat rather than physical tools. The smaller cannula means you will require a smaller incision that will be less likely to leave a permanent scar behind.
A smaller tube also allows for greater precision in tightening the skin following the fat removal process. The laser can evenly distribute energy to create a smoother and more appealing final look. Patients can feel more satisfied with this finish following SmartLipo treatment.
Reduced Recovery Time with Laser Liposuction
Many patients worry that liposuction will require them to take a large amount of time from their busy schedules to recover. Traditional liposuction will usually need several weeks of time off work until the patient is back on their feet. But SmartLipo’s precise laser treatment will lessen this healing period. Patients can usually return to their usual activities within a few days.
Patients who undergo SmartLipo and traditional liposuction will both need to wear compression garments to ensure their bodies heal properly. But while traditional liposuction patients will likely need to wear this garment for a month or longer, SmartLipo patients can stop wearing it after a week in most cases.
Local Anesthesia Rather Than General
To reduce discomfort during this procedure, a cosmetic doctor will give patients anesthesia for both traditional liposuction and SmartLipo procedures. However, each treatment will need different levels of sedation.
Traditional liposuction is more invasive due to the larger cannula, so patients will be under general anesthesia. This means that they will be unconscious during the procedure and will wake up feeling disoriented.
SmartLipo patients can feel comfortable with a local anesthetic. This features an injection that numbs the affected area without impacting the patient’s awareness. The patient will not face the potential respiratory reactions that can occur with general anesthesia.
Patients may also awaken after traditional liposuction in significantly more pain than those who had SmartLipo. Those patients may need prescription medication to manage their pain after this treatment. SmartLipo patients on the other hand can use over-the-counter products to stay comfortable after the numbing agent wears off.