The issue of weight problems and obesity is a concern for many people. Those who suffer medical conditions that cause them to be overweight--or those who are concerned about related problems, such as high blood pressure and heart dysfunction--often seek remedies to correct the problem. These remedies can be dietary in nature or may include physical exercise regimens. Medical procedures are also used to address weight problems, including the procedure known as Smart Lipo.
Fat in the Body
The body stores fat in different areas of the body. Fat is necessary as a storage area for energy that is derived from food, but it also acts as padding for organs in the body, and as insulation. Normal body fat mass varies, depending on the individual body type and metabolism. Excess fat develops for different reasons, but the psychological and physical implications often compel those who have excess fat to find ways to lessen or remove it, including invasive procedures such as liposuction and surgery.
General Facts
Smart Lipo is a non-invasive procedure to remove excess fatty tissue that uses laser energy. No incisions are required to perform this procedure and therefore no general anesthesia is required. Smart Lipo may be used for certain areas of fat buildup that are difficult to address with typical invasive procedures, such as facial areas. It is generally performed in an outpatient mode and recovery time is usually within 24 hours. Desired results are usually achieved in one to three procedures.
The Smart Lipo Procedure
The targeted areas where the procedure is to be focused are marked and then anesthetized locally. According to Todd K. Malan, MD, who is a cosmetic surgeon, a laser-emitting device is directed on the fat deposits under the skin surface. The fat cells begin to break apart and liquefy. The liquefied fat then passes from the body through natural bodily processes. This procedure does not require invasive techniques, thereby reducing the time that is required to recover.
Side Effects
The use of laser energy may cause skin and tissue discomfort for a 24-hour period. This discomfort is reported to be minimal in most cases and can be addressed with non-prescription pain relief products. According to the Toronto Cosmetic Clinic bruising may be a side effect of this procedure but will disappear much quicker than other types of liposuction. Swelling is sometimes a side effect as well. Compression garments may be recommended to aid in the healing process and to reduce swelling.
Permanency
The advertised affect of the Smart Lipo procedure is not only the removal of excess fat deposits in the body, but an elasticizing of the collagen in the skin. The reported result of this aspect of the procedure is an improved toning of the skin that is meant to be permanent. However, according to the Toronto Cosmetic Clinic the results will rely on changes in lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, is generally included in any information on the Smart Lipo procedure.
Tags: Smart Lipo, Cosmetic Clinic, invasive procedures, invasive procedures such, laser energy, Lipo procedure