SmartLipo Laserlipolysis® Patient Information Sheet |
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It is an Nd Yag laser system by DEKA used to break down fatty deposits by destroying the cell wall and fibrous bands which are then absorbed by the body and broken down in the liver. The procedure is to improve body contouring and silhouette. It is carried out under sterile conditions in a minor operating theatre by an operator of suitable qualification (preferably possessing a surgical qualification). The laser itself is inserted through a tiny 1mm incision on the skin in the area to be treated. The fibre-optic cannula is moved through the anaesthetised (numbed area) to breakdown the fatty cell membranes. The fibre-optic tip is passed within the fatty tissue under the skin several times to liquefy the area to be treated. Upon completion, the fibre-optic laser is removed and the tiny incision closed up.
In the correct hands and setting, yes. The laser has been used worldwide and approximately 6000 procedures have been carried out. It has FDA approval (October 2006) and is used on the US market. Although introduced into the UK in 2006 there are several UK users who form the UK users group and feedback is very positive on the safety profile and results. Tests looking at cholesterol and fat levels in the blood have been carried out and showed there was no posed risk.
Will I need a general anaesthetic? |
No. The area to be treated is numbed with a special local anaesthetic solution which is injected into the area before the laser is used.
This is not a slimming aid or treatment. It is for contouring and silhouetting of the body and face. It is for patients who exercise regularly and are within a normal BMI range but have unwanted stubborn areas of fatty deposits that dieting will not move. Two fist areas is the amount of fat that can be treated about 500mls.
Which areas can be treated? |
With the above taken into account:
The chin and jaw line
Upper abdomen and lower abdomen
Back of arms – bingo wings
The back – above and below bra strap
Thighs – saddle bags
Inner thighs
Inner knees
Possibly ankles depending on the problem
What can I expect from the results? |
Results of ALL cosmetic procedures vary between individuals. There is a spectrum of results from the excellent to the minimal. Safety is paramountly important and having a minimal risk procedure without complications is most important .
Some procedures may not give profound results and no two individuals respond in the same way even when the lasering is performed technically very well. Viridian Medical will try and put you in touch with a previous client of similar age and anatomical site problem where ever possible if the individual consents to it.
How long does the procedure last? |
After a full consultation, on a separate occasion previous to the surgery date, the whole procedure takes one hour for one area, then about 30 mins for a second area. First of all, after consent is complete, photography and marking up whilst standing are essential. Contours change when lying down so careful pre-procedure marking is mandatory.
Serious side effects such as infection are rare. Some swelling and mild bruising occur, but less so than with conventional liposuction procedures. The laser seals off tiny blood vessels as it breaks down fat cells so bruising is minimal. Tiny surface burns in a few patients have been reported .
Who should not be treated? |
Needle phobics
Some patients on Aspirin
Patients on Warfarin
Those at risk of infection - the immuno-compromised, poorly controlled diabetics and those who have locomotor problems restricting ability to remain flat for the duration of the procedure
Those who have loose folds of skin or those needing an alternative treatment - liposuction or full surgery
Will the fatty deposits return? |
Once the cell wall is eliminated that fat cell will not return BUT if you gain weight surrounding fatty cells will increase in size
Will I have to wear garments? |
Yes. These vary in length of time but the longest is two weeks for the abdomen, two days for the chin area. Much shorter than traditional liposuction and the garments tend to stay cleaner so you can easily return to work
This is not an instant result. You will see results in two-four months. If you put on weight in that time though this may obscure your result.
Most patients drive themselves to the clinic and in most cases are able to drive home afterwards. However if you are prone to light-headedness or can be squeamish I strongly advise you to bring a partner or friend, or take a taxi home. In the very unlikely event you feel light-headed after a procedure, arrangements will be made for your comfort until you feel ready to depart.
When can I return to normal activity ? |
Most people return to normal within 24 hours to go to work otr do domestic chores. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 2 weeks as the area will still feel tender
When will I be followed up? |
At two then four months, photographs and a progress report is made.
What treatments could give quicker results? |
No treatment will result in an instantaneous improvement. However ,aspiration of fatty tissue at the end of the lasering procedure (high pressure suction) speeds up the process. OR Manual lymphatic drainage performed after the procedure ( 3-5 1 hour sessions) with a qualified therapist is proving popular with clients who are giving positive feedback to this being a useful adjunct to Smartlipo. Please note; this is based on our own observation and experience and has not be fully evaluated by scientific trials. See Staff and Gayle Longhursts' profile.
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