SmartLipo® is a revolutionary technique for fat reduction. It is not a slimming method but a minimally invasive body contouring operation to address the often-stubborn areas where fat tends to accumulate when weight is lost elsewhere as demonstrated later. It is infinitely safer and cheaper than conventional liposuction.

How Does SmartLipo® Work?

A 1mm laser probe is inserted under the skin under local anaesthetic. Heated to 45°C the laser breaks down the fat cells turning the fat to an oily substance, which is either sucked out or absorbed safely by the body over a 5-6 week period. The laser also seals the small blood vessels to minimise bruising and also causes tightening of the skin above the treated area by causing the collagen (skin) to retract.

What should I expect and how safe is SmartLipo?

Most patients require a single treatment lasting 45-90 minutes. There may be a sensation of tugging and some minor stinging during the procedure. A compression garment is provided and is worn for a few days or weeks depending on the area. Most patient can return to work immediately after treatment. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for about a week as should firm massage or power showers.

By its nature, side effects are very few indeed and include reaction to local anaesthetic, bruising/bleeding, infection and laser burns are rare but can occur.

How Effective is the Treatment?

The results are visible in 2 to 3 weeks but best results will be seen at 3 to 4 months. A stepped up programme is required if larger amounts of fat is removed to allow gradual reshaping but also to avoid overloading the body’s fat dispersal system. The number of treatments required to achieve the desired contouring will be discussed with your surgeon.

Who is a good candidate for the procedure?

Theoretically any fat containing part of the body can be treated but SmartLipo is best reserved for those areas resistant to diet and exercise in patients with normal body weight and realistic expectations. It is particularly suited for treating small areas of the face, neck, arms, breasts (gynecomastia), abdomen, thighs, knees and areas of flabby skin including cellulite. The results are permanent, as fat cells do not regenerate. However, like any weight loss programme, a sensible diet and lifestyle is necessary to maintain condition and efficacy.

What does it cost?

SmartLipo practitioners do not on the whole compete on price and the charge is determined by the consumables needed for each treatment session as well as the number of areas that can be treated at each session. Your surgeon will discuss the cost with you. As a rough guide a single area cost £2000 and each additional area during the same session an extra £1500.