Do You Think That Smartlipo Is The Best Way To Do Liposuction?

Q: I have some bothersome fat areas on my stomach and thighs that I have wanted to get rid of for a long time. I now have the money to do it and have done a lot of research on the internet about liposuction. I never knew there were so many different ways to do liposuction. I keep reading about Smartlipo and it seems that it is the best tool for doing liposuction currently. What are your thoughts?

A: Using devices to remove unwanted fat is a surgical necessity. So, to some degree, we as plastic surgeons have to rely on devices to perform the surgery. Unlike ten years ago, there are numerous devices today that can make the fat easier to suction out. While many will espouse the benefits of one device over another, I would submit that the hands and brain that is using them is far more important than the technology of the device. No matter what the device can do to get rid of fat, it will be no better than the one who is driving it.

That being said, I can only comment on what my experience with Smartlipo has been over the past two years. In my hands, I can say without question that it does result in less pain and bruising after the liposuction procedure. I think that the swelling seen is about the same as traditional liposuction. I have no scientific data to support that it is more effective but my feeling is that it is. The heat generated in the fat tissues during the procedure accounts for some continued fat cell death and lipid release that otherwise would not be seen with traditional liposuction. While there does appear to be a mild skin tightening effect, most patients overinterpret that result thinking that it can remove inches of unwanted skin. Realistically ti causes some tightening of skin but that is best perceived as firmer skin tautness, not the elimination of an inch or two of excess skin.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana