Laser Body Sculpting-Laserlipolysis

The Smartlipo™ is a laser system designed for laser body sculpting and for the disruption of fat cells. It is ideal for treating localized deposits of unwanted fat, fat tissue irregularities and for coagulating tissue leading to a tightening effect. Smartlipo is ideal for treating small areas of the face, neck, arms, male breasts (gynecomastia), and other areas of loose or lax skin (flabby skin). It may be combined with modern liposculpture to treat larger areas such as the abdomen, hips, buttocks, etc. At Advancded Dermatology Pocono Medical Care, Dr. Buckley performs all laser-lipo and liposculpture procedures entirely using local tumescent anesthesia with the patiet awake and comfortable.

How does the Smartlipo work?

Smartlipo laser-lipolysis is a minimally invasive procedure. which permanently treats fat cells through thermal and photodisruptive actions. These actions heat and collapse the fat cell membranes resulting in shrinkage of the treated area. Due to hemostatic properties of the laser, small vessels in the treatment area are coagulated, resulting in less bleeding, bruising, trauma and a quicker recovery time. The additional benefit of tissue tightening through thermal heating and tissue coagulation may also be seen.

Dr. Buckley performs this procedure using local tumescent anesthesia. The laser fiber is introduced into the body through a handpiece and a tiny detachable cannula.  The cannula is then inserted through a 1.5 mm entry site in the skin and into fat pockets. The laser fiber is moved in a “back and forth” fanning motion. The laser’s aiming beam can be visualized through the skin, allowing Dr. Buckley to precisely identify and sculpt the treatment area. As the fiber tip comes in contact with the fat cells it disrupts the cell membranes and releases the fatty oil from the fat cells. The treated fat cells and released oil are then then removed using gentle suction.

What are the benefits of Smartlipo?

• Treats unwanted fat and fat tissue irregularities
• Promotes tissue coagulation resulting in skin tissue tightening
• Treats flabby or lax skin and areas of high vascularity
• May also improve cellulite
• Minimal edema (swelling) and bleeding due to the laser’s hemostatic properties
• Minimal if any bruising
• Faster healing time than traditional liposuction

What type of laser system is used?

The Smartlipo is an Nd:YAG laser with a wavelenght of 1064 nm, high peak power and a high rep rate of 40 Hz. The laser energy is delivered using a 300 micron fiber which is threaded through the handpiece and cannula and deposited directly to the tissue, disrupting the fat cells. The laser’s aiming beam allows Dr. Buckley to precisely visualize the laser treatment area .

Does this procedure have FDA Clearance?

The Smartlipo has been cleared by the FDA for laser-assisted lipolysis. It is also cleared for incision, vaporization, ablation and coagulation of soft tissue.

Does laser-assisted lipolysis produce lasting results?

Yes! The Smartlipo procedure permanently destroys the treated fat cells. Adults do not create new fat cells. When a person gains weight, that person’s fat cells simply expand.   Should you gain weight, that fat will most likely be deposited in areas where the procedure was not performed.

Who is a good candidate for the procedure?

Ideal candidates are in good health, close to normal body weight and have realistic expectations for the results. If the person has areas of fat that will not respond to diet and exercise, then that person is a candidate for laser-assisted lipolysis.

How many treatments are required?

Most patients typically need only one treatment. The session may last from 45 minutes for a small area and longer for larger areas or when multiple areas are treated during one session. Laserlipolysis is also an ideal choice for “touch ups” to improve previous traditional liposuction procedures.