Liposuction is an invasive to minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that focuses on quickly eliminating unwanted fat from the hips, stomach, thighs, upper arms, buttocks, and breasts. As the years have passed, several modifications have helped make the procedure safer and more effective.
Two of the most popular liposuction treatments are laser liposuction, performed by several companies, including the brand SmartLipo, and tumescent liposuction. Both of these have the same goal of fat elimination, but they accomplish this goal with some notably different manners.
Laser Liposuction: SmartLipo
Laser liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that utilizes heat from a laser to melt the fat into liquid, which makes it easier to remove. The surgeon will then use a cannula, a vacuum-like device to suction out the melted fat. The laser also minimizes damage to surrounding tissues, blood vessels, and muscles.
SmartLipo is one of the more popular brands that perform this variation of liposuction. Although they go by the same name, you should also know that minimally invasive liposuction has nothing in common with noninvasive laser liposuction procedures.
Tumescent Liposuction: A More Traditional Approach
Commonly called traditional liposuction because it is one of the older techniques, tumescent liposuction skips the lasers and fat melting. Instead, large amounts of a saline solution mixed with an anesthetic and vasoconstrictor are pumped into the treated area.
The anesthetic numbs the area and eliminates the requirement of general anesthesia, while the vasoconstricting agent narrows the blood vessels to decrease potential blood loss. Sometimes, doctors will still use general anesthesia if large amounts of fat are to be removed.
Comparison Between SmartLipo and Traditional Lipo
A noteworthy aspect of both of these methods is that they can be used together in one procedure. The cosmetic procedure can simultaneously utilize the saline solutions and the laser to liquefy the patient’s fat cells.
The incisions are closed with sutures, the patients are dressed with bandages, and a compression garment is recommended after both procedures. Returning to your daily routine usually requires at least a week of downtime.
Laser liposuction also offers the distinct benefit of tightening the skin in the area where the fat removal occurs.
Cost Comparison: SmartLipo vs Tumescent Lipo
The cost of tumescent liposuction usually varies due to the size of the treated area, anesthetics, medical tests, and prescribed medication. An average procedure can range between $2,000 and $8,000 depending on variables like the surgeon’s experience and geographical location.
Laser liposuction prices also depend on similar variables, but overall should be slightly cheaper on average. The average cost for this procedure ranges between $2,500 and $5,450.
Who Are Candidates for Each Liposuction Technique?
For both treatments, candidates must be in generally good health. It is also vital that they realize that liposuction focuses on eliminating fat from specific areas and should not be confused as a method for significant weight-loss.
The following conditions could prevent you from safely receiving liposuction:
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
- Blood clots
- Cancer
- Heart conditions
- Diabetes
- Implants
Important Recommendations About Both Procedures
If considering SmartLipo or tumescent liposuction, you should make sure your body is in the right condition. Do your research in order to find a properly skilled and experienced cosmetic surgeon before going under the knife. Your cosmetic surgeon should be a board-certified physician, and your procedure should always be performed within a licensed facility.