36 of 37 people found the following review helpful:
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Definately more saggy skin on the banana roll area than there was previously. The best way to describe the appearnce... think of someone who's lost a lot of weight then their skin hangs. It's like several creases or big wrinkles if you will. Because of the distance of the photo it isn't as noticeable as it is in person. The laser hasn't helped tighten at all but there is some difference in the appearance of my buttocks. For that reason I am one the fence but leaning more towards worth it. When deciding if this procedure is for you, you just have to decide if the fat loss is more important than the appearance of the skin. I'm sure age is a factor.
before
2 weeks later
2 days after
2 weeks later, bruising is worse in person and down to my knees. Lots of uneven lumpiness.
day after the procedure
week 4
lumps on left, week 4
week 4, fat roll (banana roll) still apparent. Easier to see on back leg
week 4
week 6, note the saggy skin under my cheeks
week 8, more lifted on the outter edges of the crease?
before...easier to make direct comparison. Worth 3K+?
week 8
Smart Lipo reviews by RealSelf.com users
Avg cost $5,740
81% say Smart Lipo was worth it
19% say Smart Lipo was not worth it
4/4/08
Hi, I noticed you live in Colorado and was wondering where you got your Smart Lipo done. I was thinking of having the procedure and so far could only find Dr. William Merkel in Grand Junction who performs it. Any info. you can give me would be helpful.
4/4/08
Hi there, so after reading your story, how long did the Doctor say it would be before you would be able to see your final result?
4/4/08
His name is {edited - shown above under title). I love his staff and really like him. He really seems to know his stuff. Just hoping the procedure turns out the way i hoped. I trust him and feel reassured when he tells me things will improve. It's just so hard to believe when i look worse then i started.
There is also Dr. Menacoff (not sure of the spelling). I know him as an ENT doctor but noticed over the past few years he now does plastic surgery. Great ENT but i can't speak to his plastic surgery skills. He was also about $700 more for the same procedure.
4/5/08
Hi Julie,
So I've been doing more research on Dr. Millard and Dr. Menachof and called their offices today (so happy there is someone closer then Grand Junction). Did you get a consultation with both Dr.s? Dr. Millard sounds pretty impressive...I watched some videos on how he is 1 of 2 Dr.s who does that High Def Lipo...wow! Obviously through your research you thought he was the best to do the procedure, do you think its worth having a consultation with both? I'm a little nervous that you're not 100% satisfied. I'm trying to get an appt. in the next few weeks. Hopefully you'll have better news by them. Once again, I appreciate your info. and am willing to hear any advice. One more question, his receptionist said that he does about 5 differenct types of Lipo, including Smart Lipo, did you specifically ask for that kind or did he think it would be the best. I didn't realize there were so many options. I just wanted to be awake and to have minimal recovery with good results.
4/6/08
Your butt was lopsided before....smart lipo can't reverse that. Be patient. I think 4 days out is too soon to say that something wasn't worth it.
4/6/08
The firts 3 months I will notice 90% of the results with additional 10% more improvement up to the six month point. It sounds like the amount of time varies between individuals so my doctor won't make any more specific time frames. It's been 6 days and I'm still pretty swollen and bruised. Still look worse than my before picture. I know there has to be improvement because I saw the fat being sucked out.
4/6/08
I did not see Dr. Menachof but I know him and like him. For me it was about cost. Dr. Menachof charges $700 more. It never hurts to get more than one opinion.
I specifically ask for smartlipo. I've had traditional lipo before and though the results were immediate, I'm not sure that I would recommend it. EXTREMELY painful and i had some lumpy spots afterwards. Smartlipo is supposed to tighten the skin and have smoother results. However, if traditional lipo was the only option or if the smartlipo doesn't work (it's too soon for me to make a judgement) then I would recommend traditional lipo. It does get rid of fat.
As for the different types of lipo Dr. Millard does... I would certainly ask his opinion. Most importantly do your research!!! Get opinions from people who had it done. DERFINATELY do not take only the doctors word on what works best.
Also, most importantly, make sure you get everything in writing at your CONSULTATION. If they're not willing to write it up at the consultation, I would take notes and repeat everything back to them. I thought I was having a bigger area treated for my smartlipo...the areas we talked about at the consultation. I question them the day of my procedure but apparantly not enough. I figured they must know what they're talking about and trusted them to cover all the areas. I'll have to admit I'm rather heartbroken it didn't get done. When I questioned Dr. Millard at my post-op visit I reminded him what we talked about at the consultation and he said that would be another procedure. I'm sure they get so many people they can't remember the details with each patient. If they SAY they will treat a couple areas but only write down one, you better believe they will only treat the area they WRITE. Not because they are trying to be sneaky rather they simply can't remember.
4/6/08
not to be mean but your butt looked kind of lopsided to start with. I think the swelling has just made that more apparent.
4/6/08
I agree...that it's too soon to tell. Have you had the procedure done yourself? If so what was your outcome? Are you a patient or do you work in the mediacl field? You sound a bit defensive. I wanted to post pictures on the website ASAP. In all my research i couldn't find the pictures i was looking for. Pictures like these help people understand the procedure. I had no option of "don't know". The choices i had were "it was worth it" or "it was not worth it". The people at realself.com told me i can change my outcome later if i choose. For now i still lean towards the negative.
As for the lopsided butt before...don't you think a good surgeon would make corrections so the lopsidedness would be less apparent not more apparent? I know they do it all the time with breasts. I'm not saying i had a bad surgeon...QUITE the contrary. I think he is probably the best plastic surgeon i've come across (I've seen 4). Whatever the reason, i just don't want my butt to look worse than when i started.
Anyway, I WANT to be happy with the results! I will say I'm surprised how much it still hurts but hope it's all worth it it the end.
4/7/08
Julie,
Don't get discouraged! Legs tend to stay swollen longer then any other part of the body. This happens due to disruption in lymphatic drainage in the area. After about 2 weeks you will notice a significant decrease in swelling. Bruises should be gone by that time also. You will feel lumps for another 3-4 months, but they will be getting softer almost daily. I've done SmartLipo on my wife's legs and was able to track progress daily. It gets worse before it gets better. Once the area is less sore - you may start doing lymphatic drainage massage that should help decrease the swelling and lumpiness. I hope in 1 month you will change your opinion about the procedure.
Max Grishkevich, MD
4/7/08
Thank you for your words of incouragement Max! I hope I can change my review too!
4/7/08
What is your opinion about icing? It seems to feel better when i use it. I have been slightly rubbing, not strong enough to be considered massage, to try and stimulate blood flow. Again, it seems to make it feel better.
4/7/08
I know Dr. Barrett in Longmont, CO has started this as well...
4/8/08
Julie7,
I am now at about 10 weeks and the swelling rarely happens now. When I do have swelling, it does swell more on one side than the other, but these days I am 90% not swollen and the sides are even. I am really happy with my results and know that you will be too.
To those still researching, I highly recommend Dr. John Millard. Everyone in his office was fantastic and he has experience in this field. Check out his website (just search his name).
4/8/08
I'm surprised to hear there is any swelling at 10 weeks. Is that normal? Did you have your tummy done or somewhere else? Even with the swelling you are happy with the results? When I had traditional lipo, which was God awful pain I only had swelling for two weeks. I had to wear a compression garment which might have helped. I wonder why they say not to wear one with this procedure?
4/9/08
I had my tummy done and even at its most swollen moments, it was smaller than I was before I had the procedure. I only swell now when I do something super aggressive. A 4 hour mountain bike ride causes some minor swelling and my doc says that this is normal. I think it is all of the bouncing over rocks and jiggling that happens. A normal workout at the gym doesn't cause any swelling. All of the literature that I have read says that the swelling can be expected for up to 6 months, but it is really minor at this point.
I massaged my tummy for the first few weeks, and iced the area for about 20 minutes in the evenings (always keep a cloth between you and the ice pack and don't go over 20 minutes). The lumps will go away. I don't remember what week that happened, but it has been a while since I have felt a lump, so maybe it was about week 6. I would say the major swelling went away on week 4. It seemed like that was a magic moment, because a lot of my symptoms went away by then.
I love my results and wish this had been available years ago. Based on your photos, I think that the amount of swelling and bruising I see is normal. I too was lop-sided when I was swollen, but I trusted that Dr. Millard knew what he was doing and, sure enough, my tummy is now flat and evenly balanced. I get my 3 month photos taken in a couple of weeks. I will publish the before and afters then.
4/9/08
Julie7,
I just remembered one more thing. I was more swollen at day 7 than I was at day 3 and that is because I was being more active. I think the first few days are slow moving, so once I got back into my normal activities, the swelling increased.
4/9/08
Thank you!
4/10/08
I would look into John Millard in Denver. He is a well known and highly trainned platic surgeon who used Smartlipo.
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4/13/08
Hello Julie,
I am thinking about smart lipo on my legs and I am worried about bumps after the procedure.
I just wonder if my tighs will be smooth when all heals.
HOw do you feel about the procedure now?
Do you have some recent picture?
4/14/08
Yes bumps and lumps! It's been two weeks and I'm still pretty darn sore. Can't sit on the toilet. I was on narcotics for 10 days and now at the 2 week point switched to motrin. I was told it would be weeks before the lumps go away. I find VERY light massaging (more rubbing actually) helps the lumps not be so hard, which makes them feel better. Which thigh area are you having treated? Have you asked Dr. Millard what he thinks is the best lipo for you? Traditional liposuction sucks as far as pain goes but the results are instant. I had my saddle bags treated 2 years ago. If you're looking for quick results for this summer, you might want to go that route. The first 2 weeks is pretty bad but after that I would say the pain is the same.
I wonder if it will be smooth when it heals too. I'm still undecided as far as results. If I had to make a decision today I would say I see no reults. Do you from the pictures?
4/14/08
Hi,
I've been looking at your postings for the past couple of weeks. I've been researching forever to find out of there is any help for slight cellulite. Your body figure looks simliar to mine and I'm counting on you for some updates and pictures. You dont realize how much this helps other people I wouldnt mind doing the same when I finally decide which treatments are going to be best. I'm 5'10 and 145, I was very active in high school and College. I play volleyball for 1 year and I really for a good 5-7 years I still was able to eat and do anything I wanted cause I never had to watch my weight. Well, I'm 27yrs old now and i'm starting to see some cellulite and need to find some help ASAP, before it gets out of hand. Its obvious that exercise and what you eat plays a part. However, those people that are 100lbs and can eat anything without getting a single cellulite I believe it cause I used to be one of those. I weighed 115-120 for much of h.s and college, I started gaining weight a couple of years ago. I am still back in forth but just recently lost 15 lbs by taking the phetermine stuff, Would NOT recommend that one for a long time but it took off the extra pounds. I'm under 25BMI and I just recently tried the lipodissolve back in OCT 07. RESULTS............. Honestly I had one treatment with FIG, they close the doors on me and they moved the files to one dr and charged $125 a session. Thats less than 1/2 what I paid before. I was treated just once a month ago and its not the same. I cant knock the lipodissolve but at the same time I cant say its 100% worth it. I still have hard lumps and feels like holes in my thighs. It was only $125 and got my refund back from CareCredit/FIG so I figured what do I have to lose. I think I'm done... too much pain and I hope I can report in the next month that the lumps will go away. Keep your pictures coming and updates so I canalso learn to see if this works.
4/14/08
hi i have just had smart lipo on my tummy and flanks today. the procedure itself was uncomfortable but i feel fine now only 5hours later. did you bleed a bit after? and also did you doctor suck out the fat/oil by hand or by a machine? if you could get back to me would be great. thanks
Helen
xxxxx
4/14/08
Hi Alexus~
Such a good question...cellulite and what to do! Let's put it this way, I'm still looking. I will be 41 in a week, weigh 124 pounds (size 4), am 5'7", exercise regularly (typically 5 x a week for 1.5+ hours, with and without a physical trainer), eat very healthy and drink lots of water. To eating healthy, I HIGHLY recommend the book Ultra- metabolism...FASNTASTIC!!!! I've always been one to have to watch everything I eat though. Perhaps now you might need to watch things more, but look at it this way, at least you had some wonderful time of indulgence! Anyway, this book is very practical without starving yourself.
For cellulite I have tried endermologie @ $1200. Helped only the slightest bit and I followed directions exactly! I found Body Shape by Hydroderm to work just as well ($50 a bottle). I've also tried Cellulean, Wu-long tea, a number of diet pills & Derma Sculpt but didn't notice much of a difference with those either. I've had body wraps, deep tissue massages, and even tried tanning beds to help reduce the appearance. Just bought revitol but it hasn't arrived yet. I was told smartlipo wont help either and traditional lipo certainly didn't help the cellulite.
My physical trainer was convinced it was something in my diet. I do NOT agree so asked my Vegan friend her experience. She eats NO animal products or ANY processed food including sugar. If it has a wrapper she doesn't eat it. 100% whole food ONLY along with tons of suppliments closely monitored by a naturalpath doctor. I asked her if she had cellulite before her diet change and she did. Get this...she STILL has cellulite despite this EXTREME diet and her daily walking regime. BTW- she's a size 2. Diet is not the answer either!
Other than my experience with what doesn't work, I realize this isn't the most optomistic info. I just don't want you to feel guilty that you aren't eating healthy enough if you think you are. If only magazines would stop the air-brushing and Hollywood would show a lot more "real" skin as unsightly as it may be. Probably doesn't sell as well though so lets keep searching!
4/14/08
Hi Helen!
I'm glad your experience went well! You might notice some pain once the numbness wears off so I highly recommend taking the pain pills as directed. I wouldn't let time lapse between doses or you'll being trying to cacth up, which is even harder.
Yes, my doctor did use suction. It was a pump with a small hand held hose, which he controlled in addition to some manual back and forth movement, but the machine provided the aspiration. I watched as it went up the tube (ICKY!).
Bleeding...no. Only one small spot (dime size) that got on my pants on the ride home.
It seems like the tummy and flanks are a good area to treat. Good luck!!!!
4/14/08
BTW- my Vegan friend has been on this diet for 1.5 years. Certainly enough time to understand that cellulite isn't just about diet. Personally I think age is a big factor, maybe genes but my mom doesn't have any and could even stand to loose 15 pounds. I could loose 4-6 pounds myself but would have to starve to get there. I usually only eat 1000 calories a day as it is (hint...green food = low calories). Actually, now that I think about it, I was there last summer and still had cellulite.
Did you see Lorenzo's Oil with Susan Sarandon? Maybe i should research this issue more and solve the problem myself! I certainly have knowledge of what doesn't work. Could you imagine?...I could be a millionaire!
4/15/08
Hi Julie,
I have been reading about your procedure and the doctor you used, and would like to thank you for sharing in detail your results, good and bad. I am interested in both the Smartlipo procedure and the doctor you chose, so your outcome has become important to me. I think I am in a different catagory than you are, in terms of your body fat, because I have more. I am 5'3 and weigh 150. I have these terrible saddlebags that I would love to get rid of!!, I dont want to be a stick, but just more proportioned. Do you think the procedure would have more or less problems for me, due to my weight? I am currently trying to lose 15 more pounds, should i wait? I know your not a doctor, but your honesty would be helpful, and you have said you have had a few procedures. I dont think I will change my mind about having a procedure, just trying to find the right one for me. thanks in advance
Michelle
4/15/08
Hi Michelle!
I had that same question and I'll be happy to share my story and opinion. 2 years ago I had traditional liposuction on my saddle bags and I weighed 12 pounds more than I currently do. The traditional liposuction worked extremeley well. It was horrifically painful for me but the results were immediate. Since then I've gotten a slight lumpy appearance on the treatment area. Nothing like it was previously, just a couple very small bulges.
When I went to see Dr. Millard I was looking for more fine tuning rather than major overhaul as I did with my previous thigh lipo. Lipo, especially smart lipo (supposedly) targets fat cells. You probably know each person has a certain number of fat cells. Fat cells can grow and shrink but additional fat cells don't grow. Basically, if you have 1000 fat cells you will never have 1050. The process behind lipo is removing those fat cells. so..my OPINION: If the fat cells are large when you have your procedure, you might not get as MANY fat cells destroyed. My OPINION: If the fat cells are smaller and more condensed, I would think the possibilitiy of getting a greater number of them would be better. Believe me when I say you can get fat in the areas you had lipo but it won't be as disporpotionate as it was previously.
Perhaps my lumpiness is a result of the fat cells that were left behind rearing their ugly head. It was just touched up with smart lipo and I hope that does the trick. I do think Dr. Millard takes extra measures (using specific tools) to help insure smoothness. I also know he performs several types of lipo. I would ask his opinion on what type he thinks would be best for you.
As for losing the last 15 pounds, I know how hard that can be! I highly recommend the book ultra-metabolism! In addition, I find "Derma Sculpt" capsules to work a little better than most. It's all natural products rather than a bunch of strange chemicals. In addition and probably most impotantly, any kind of cardio would be fantastic. I've done EVERYTHING as far as cardio goes but good old fashioned walking is one of the best! I find walking creates some jiggling in your legs. I notice itching from the increased circulation and I think it helps tone things up better than most all other cardio.
So Michelle, I hope this helps. Good luck with everything!
Julie
4/15/08
Julie7 and HappyTummy,
I am having my hips/flanks done in a few weeks. I am wondering what medicine you all are taking and had to take during recovery.
Are you taking Celebrex? How does it work to reduce the swelling?
Annie
4/15/08
As far as medication I'm rather odd...TONS of allergies. I've never tried Celebrex. Vicodin (sp?) and demerol are all I can take. It worked only well enough to take the edge off...certainly far from a painfree recovery. I hope it's worth it!!! Were your results instant?
4/15/08
Julie's story is making me a bit nervous.
I am having my hips/flanks done. Do you know about the recovery of these areas? I am going to take Celebrex (she is not taking it). Will this help reduce the pain/swelling? Thanks!
Ann-Marie
4/16/08
Julie7, thank you so much for the new pictures. I was looking closely, but did not see any diference between the before and after pictures. I would think that since you still have bruising, you may be still swollen, and you will see good results in next couple of weeks.
I am so glad I read your post, since I was about to have this procedure done for summer, and it does not look like I would be healed. I live in Maryland, so I did not see Dr Millard, but I am going for consultation this Thursday.
My thighs allways bothered me.It is difficult for me to buy pants, and I always wear heels to make my legs look longer.
If I diet very strict I get the looks I want, than I loose all my breast and can't keep dieting for ever. I was exided about this procedure, it seemed like solution to my problems.
I guess I will diet once again and do more research, maybe get this done by fall.
Please keep us informed about your progress and post new pictures.
Wishing you speedy and succesfull recovery.
4/16/08
Michelle..
If you're still following this, I believe seeing the same doctor as me is an excellent choice. He is certainly an expert and you won't find better staff anywhere!!!! I would recommend asking his opinion on what lipo he thinks works best.
Giving consideration to your previous question...should you wait until you loose 15 pounds... I still stand by my previous mentioned opinion, but want to point out that I was heavier when I had my first lipo procedure. The great results that came from it gave me the motivation to loose the extra weight. If loosing weight is extremely hard, this could be what you need to shed those last pounds. I'd love to hear what you decide.
Julie
4/18/08
Julie,
I had my smartlipo done on the 29th of feb. As everyone, I did my research and I found that most places I looked just pointed out how wonderful and great this procedure is... your story is def. more real than anything I read so far. Thank you!
I just want to say that I'm a little disappointed with the procedure... I got it done on my legs (inner & outer thighs) and my butt and I have not seen visible results just yet. I am planning on calling the Dr. office maybe next week after completing my 2 month after the procedure to let them know how discouraged I am after doing everything right (drinking tons of water, exercise after 5 wks, eating healthy, etc).
The only thing I have notice is that I went from 125lbs to 122lbs (I am 5'3") but I dont know if it is because of the procedure or because I increased my cardio work out!
I am hoping in the days to come you have a better results...
Sincerely,
Xenia
4/22/08
Hi Julie,
thanks again for emailing me, how is everything going? I am eager to see and hear about your progress, if you have any. I am still looking forward to getting the smartlipo done, I was curious as to why you were not recommended to have compression garments on your body after the surgury? do you think that might have helped with your recovery? also, what is the cost of the consultation? I hope to make my appointment this next coming weeks, I hope to do my saddlebags, and upper hips. Have you ever considered doing the type of lipo that makes you look like you have hard core abs? the pictures of one of the women in his gallery looks incredible. anyways, hope your starting to feel better, and your info has been invaluable. I have been trying to lose weight and I have been having a hard time with it, as I turn 40, it is much more difficult. I have 4 boys with the youngest still only one! I play tennis 3x week, and walk 2 miles up and down hills 2-3x week. still i have only lost 5lbs since january. but I definately have a harder body i guess. thanks, hope to hear from you soon.
Michelle
4/22/08
Hi Julie, I had SMartlipo done on my inner thighs 2 weeks ago. The procedure was manageable. I've been wearing the compression garment religiously (other than for showering). Bruising has gone down significantly, however I've noticed a small lump on my left inner thigh. From what I read this sometimes happens and massaging helps. Both thighs are still a bit sore but much less so than 13 days ago.
Does anyone know when the lump will go away and/or could it be the sign of something more serious?
Your thoughts are appreciated
Thanks
Tropic!
4/23/08
Hi Michelle- I asked 3 times why I didn't wear the garment. They told me it could cause identations so didn't recommend it. Sounds so strange...I could see the lipo causing indentations but not the garment. I go in for a touch up (the area they missed) in a few weeks. I think I will wear one this time regardless of what they say.
You sound like me...want to be perfect so quickly after having kids. Your exactly right...age and having kids all takes it's toll. I just turned 41 this week and have 3 kids myself...I know how hard it is too! The best thing I can tell you is keep up with what you're doing. Even exercise can take 2 or 3 months before you notice a difference so don't stop. Besides, with so many kids it's a great stress relief.
As for hard core abs, the lipo looks interesting. My problem area is more in my butt and legs so I haven't explored that option. I will say that REFORMER pilates is AMAZING!!!! So much better than traditional pilates because it uses weight resistance machines. I go to Artistic Body in Centennial. If you could go 2 x a week you would notice a huge diffrence in your body, especially abs. Abs just need a lot of cardio. It's great to build muscle but it's losing the weight that will be most helpful. Greeeaaat...just what you want to hear. I would recommend treating your biggest problem area with lipo first. If you gain any weight, fat will become more apparent in the untreated areas.
Check out ultra-metabolism book if you haven't already. You can eat all the time and feel quite satisfied. Made a huge impact on my life!
Good luck...I'll update my pictures next week.
4/23/08
Hi Xenia- That is discouraging!!!! Did your doctor actually suck out the fat? I've heard it doesn't work unless the fat is sucked out. I would recommend printing info off the internet to show your doctor about the importance of aspirating. If he did aspirate do you know how much came out? I'm still standing by my opinion of "it's too soon to tell" but I'm thinking if fat came out there has to be some kind of improvement. Fat cells don't regenerate.
How much did you pay? Have you taken before and after pictures? With your doctor look at the pictures to see if he notices a difference. He should do the right thing and make it better if there is no improvement.
Interestingly my friend in California's doc told her it would take 5 treatments before she would notice a difference using smart lipo. Her cost was $700 an area. My cost was $3250 an area so it better not take 5 treatments! My friend didn't know if they used suction though.
I told my doctor that I don't mind spending money for proven treatments but I can't afford to spend thousands of dollars on a chance that something might not work.
I look forward to hearing back from you.
Julie
4/23/08
Hi Julie,
To answer your questions... yes I got fat taken out. It was about half a liter. I didnt ask how much they sucked out but I saw the container after the surgery. Also they took pictures of all the areas.
The cost per area for me was 3k 1st area and then 2K for inner & outer thighs then 1k for mu butt for a total of 8k. This included the garment and one lymphatic massage.
The possitive part is that the surgery coordinator told me that in the case the Dr. feels that he was not agressive enough he will re-do procedure at no cost.
At this point i am just waiting for results but its just hard because I had so much expectation about smartlipo.
Hopefully I can get some kind of result soon!
4/23/08
Hi Xenia - Please share your experience by writing a Smart Lipo review. Our members love to read reviews by real people when researching their options and alternatives.
4/24/08
WOW! That's a lot of money, especially if it doesn't work! I really hope it works for you though. I just don't understand why it doesn't work quicker. If you look at the other postings I see immediate results. Perhaps that's the true measure of if it works.
My doctor said 90% of the results will be visible at the 3 month mark. You're about 2 months out, right? Maybe you'll start noticing improvement soon.
But really...you and I both saw the fat that came out. Don't you think we should notice less fat immediately? I don't get it!
4/26/08
Julie,
I have done lots of research and your posting and pictures hekped the most. It made me nervous BUT I had SmartLipo done on my inner and outter thighs yesterday. I am from Arkansas and used Dr. Rachael Keilin in Texarkana Texas. LOVED HER. I told her to take as much as she could get and she did. I'm 5 '1 and weigh 122. I gained 7 pounds before the procedure...nervous eating I think. I use a personal trainer and work out 5 to 6 days a week. I just couldn't get the results on my thighs that I wanted with just diet and exercise after a year. No pain. She gave me valium and demerol(sp?)prior to the procedure. Then gave me small numbing shots all over. Several too Many I did not count. Then she injected the lidocaine saline solution to numb the area. This was a little uncomfortable but I wouldn't call it painful. After the numbing process she took a small pair of surgical scissors to make the incision then started to work!! The laser is very samll the size of a paper clip straighented out. I could not feel the at all. Quite strange. I was very numb. She would touch the leg she wanted me to move and I couldn't feel that.
after about 85% of the way through she stood me up to compare thighs and make sure it was symmeterical. Yes I oozed and drained down to the floor very icky but OK. Then they laid me back down to do the "touch ups" she wanted to fine tune. Then she started suctioning. I felt a little sting every once in a while during this. I would let her know and she would go about it at a different angle. The whole procedure lasted about 2 hours. She worked hard..she was sweating thorugh her scrubs by the end. She said to expect lumpiness and LOTS of swelling. She had her husband to it to her. She knew from persoanl experience. She said you will go home and want to panic..she did..BUT she said It waould get better after 3 months. I have afollow up appoinment in 2 weeks. I will get the first of four laser light treatments to help the lymphatic systen absorb and tighten the skin. All of this is included in the price. The compression garmet included also. I am very bruised but not unbearable...feels like a hard core work out. I can sit on the toilet already!! I'm very lumpy but am positive. I would recommend it so far...OH she suctioned out 2 liters of fat and fluid!! Keep us posted with the pictures. I'm going to try an post some also....Thanks so much for the info. Hope mine helps also.
Starr
4/26/08
Hi all,
I had smart lipo on 4/24/08. I did quite a bit of research and tried lipodissolve about two years ago. That was not a success. I'm not looking for model legs, just help with the fat hanging off them. I can work out to improve them after that.
I noticed a couple of things in everyone's postings: Our actual experiences are not in line with the brochures on the procedure, and most of us are wondering if we did the right thing. Since I found this site I feel much better about my procedure and am confident I will see results.
My doctor and his staff were up front with me from the moment I called them. The assistant I first spoke with told me that I would be very bruised and very swollen and that it would take 3-6 months before I saw all the results but that I would see changes begin gradually in about 2-3 weeks. She spoke from experience since the doctor had done her stomach. She told me that she assisted the doctor with the procedure and she had seen this happen to everyone. she told me that it definitely worked and that they have several repeat patients (for different areas). The doctor is booked almost daily.
I would suggest that one use a medispa. I chose to go with my doctor after speaking with him and feeling confident in he and his staff, but this is a side business for him right now. He is a pediatric doctor. I wish he had done a couple of things mentioned in the comment above, but do I feel good about the treatment I got.
I am concerned about a doctor who does not suction out the melted fat. Not just for results, but for health reasons: that fat has to go somewhere and it may end up in the bloodstream (a significant issue with lipodissolve).
My doctor at one point said to me "look over here and say goodbye to your thighs" and I watched the fat come out. I know I'll have results seeing that very large container fill up. I am lumpy and bruised and the staff told me to expect it to get worse before it gets better. I am wearing the compression garment and following all the instructions. I spent some time on the Web looking into other treatments for bruising and found that Vitamin C helps heal them faster so I've upped my dosage of that, along with the Arnica.
I believe the claims of no brusing and no pain are not applicable to the larger procedures. We've had invasive surgery and that causes major trauma. After going through the procedure I think I would be naive to expect less. So Julie, don't give up. I have had a couple other procedures recently and have been very happy with the results, but I've had to learn patience, too. My only concern now is to come up with a reason why I'm walking funny - I didn't tell anyone I was having this done and I'm not going to be at 100% by the time I go back to work on Monday! Thanks to all who posted and I wish you all the best.
4/26/08
I forgot a couple of important points - I had inner, outer, rear-shaping and knees done all at once. I'm not sure I would suggest that someone get more than one or two areas done at one time.
4/27/08
Bowling,
what is a medispa?
Starr
4/27/08
Julie7, What is arnica and where can I get it?? I have lots of swelling, bruising, and lumpiness...I know it's the second day after but I want to do every thing possible to get optimal results.
Thanks,
Starr
4/27/08
I, too have been researching smartlip and would like to have it done this summer. To be honest I wasn't worried from looking at the brochures and other blogs I've read, but some of the comments about smartlip on here have scared me to death!!
I have chosen a doctor and had a consultation. I want to get my thighs, bottom of hips, love handles and knees done. The clinic said it would be best to have all those areas done at once and I thought so too so recovery would be once and the garment could be for just once. Then I read your comment about not having so many done at once. I am trying to take in what you, Julie and Star are all saying because I do want to be well informed (that is if I don't chicken out).
I am not overweight (5'10 - 148/150 lbs.) I'm just not a small girl. I look skinny in my clothes but have little pooches over my jeans in the lower sides and my main thing with my legs and hips is that darn cellulite. You guys talk about the smartlip procedure making you lumpy, I am quite lumpy and bumpy back there already. I hate it. Some reports say the smarlipo helps the cellulit and some don't. Anyone know for sure. My skin is weak and I stretch mark easily. I just wish I knew if this procedure is for me.
4/27/08
Starr,
How many incisions did you have for your procedure and how are they healing? Do you think they will heal completely? Please post pictures and keep reporting on the lumpiness/bumpiness and pain.
4/27/08
HI Alexus,
I am a lot like you at 5'10 - 148-150lbs. I am not like you as I will be turning 39 at the end of May. I started getting cellulite in my late 20's and it is "out of hand" as you say!! I wouldn't do lipodissolve because I am way too lumpy and bumpy as it is. I am just wondering if the smartlipo would be worth it and if you get it please post. I want to get it this summer. I am a teacher and would be off for the summer and from the other postings I am reading on here, it seems I would need to be. YIKES!! I am such a wimp when it comes to stuff like this.
4/27/08
How much did all that cost for both areas and the tightening? It's not thermage is it? I don't recommend thermage! Anyway, your doc sounds extremely thorough. That's so nice!
I only had 2 injections, only where they made the incisions. I' not sure if I'd want more. Lidocaine injections aren't the nicest. It worked for me to suck it up and deal with the uncomfortableness of the tube numbing. It wasn't unbearable.
It will be 4 weeks tomorrow and I still can tell I had the procedure. At least I can sit on the toilet, but it's tender. Also, I'm swollen and still don't notice a difference. I'll put pictures up this coming week.
4/27/08
I too took Vitamin C, Arnica, Bromelain and drank lots of water. I think good old fashioned leeches would have been better (lol). But, in absence of these blood sucking creatures the above works better than nothing. To answer your question Starr, you can get these products at any natural foods grocery (Vitamin Cottage, Whole Foods...). But, if you live close to a southern swamp maybe go find yourself some short stubby worms (just kidding)
4/27/08
Hi Starr and all,
Medispas are the places where the doctors only do cosmetic procedures and nothing else. They don't have a separate practice. As time goes on I have to say that I would not recommend my doctor to anyone only because of the office set up being in with the pediatric office. It makes it a little less professional. I did, however, get everyting done for $4300 which I think is good.
Starr, Julie or anyone - I've got a couple of questions if you don't mind answering them: Did you look "uneven" for the first few days/weeks? And if you had the procedure done a while ago, does everything even out? I have a ridge on one hip that's not on the other one and I'm worried that the doctor didn't take the same amount of fat out. And he WILL fix that if need be.
I'm still bruised and swollen unevenly all over. I asked my husband his opinion on my progress since he saw the areas on Thursday, right after the procedure, and he told me that the bruising is spreading but getting lighter and the swelling is definitely beginning to go down. I'm thinking of contacting Synosure (they make the smart lipo machine) with some comments about their advertising material. Knowing what I know now and reading everyone's comments I would have had smart lipo done during the fall/winter taking a whole week off from work and I would have only done two areas at once, max, about three months apart.
4/28/08
Bowling Babe,
I see what you are saying about having fewer areas done, but it seems like I would just want to get it all over with at once. Of course you would know since you just had it done. You had similar areas I am considering. Large/many areas I know. But is it that bad? I am nervous about even considering it now.
Did you have cellulite too, on the legs? That is a major problem for me and I want to know if anyone has had luck with it. I would like to see pictures if you have any.
Donna
4/29/08
Hi Donna,
I have cellulite too. The brochures say that you may see some tightening but the doctor told me the laser would definitely tighten all my skin and the nurses told me the same thing. They almost swore on a stack of bibles.
I don't have "before" pictures but I may take a few "now" pictures so I can track progress. It's day 4 after smart lipo and I am feeling a little better every day. I think my problem was that I thought it would be a much simpler and faster recovery with quicker results. I'll let you know what I think this coming Friday after my 1 week re-check. One thing I do notice and am surprised about right now - my pants are definitely looser already.
4/29/08
Hi- Most doctors say having multiple procedures can delay healing time. Pain management has a lot to do with it. But we've all seen Extreme Makeover where people have a ton of procedures done, right? Just remember they have 3 months to rest and recover with service, chefs and everything they need.
A couple of things to consider that might aid in your decision. 1) How tolerant are you to pain? If you're very tolerant than it's probably ok to have multiple areas. 2) What is the biggest inconvenience of having to go through 2 procedures? Cost? Missed work or interupted exercise regime? If it's about work missed, I would say if you had it on Friday you could return to work on Monday. If you had several areas at once, you would probably miss a few more days of work. If it's about exercise, you will absolutely miss the first week and can resume a completely normal schedule after 4 weeks (that's my experince anyway).
I go back in 2 weeks to have another area treated that was previously missed. Since it's only been 4 weeks, the pain is still fresh in my mind and not 100% gone. If I'm ready for more that gives you some indication that it's tolerable and that I'm hopeful that it works. Personally, I can't see a difference yet but I'm told over and over to be patient.
As for cellulite, numerous doctors have told me any kind of lipo can make it worse. The fat that is removed in lipo is bellow the level where cellulite occurs. Trust me... Lipo DOES NOT make it better. As a matter of fact, my doc is a lipo guru. He even appeared on the Today show talking about lipo. When I told him I wanted my inner thighs done to help tighten up the sagginess, he refused to treat that area telling me lipo (we were specifiaclly talking smartlipo) will only make that more apparent. He also confirmed that cellulite will NOT improve with smartlipo. If your doctor is telling you otherwise ask for testimonials...most importantly people you can contact youreself not just a written letter.
The bottom line...I've had various laser treatments before. They don't always work so just be skeptical. Don't take my word alone. It's best to get the opinion of other doctors especially experts in the field and most importantly testimonials from women like me.
Good luck!
Julie
4/29/08
Picture updates...
I updated my pictures this morning. Since I've had less than positive remarks in the past about comparisons of my before and after pictures, I want to make it know my expectations of this smartlipo procedure.
As I have mentioned earlier, I had traditional liposuction 2 years ago. Traditional lipo is more know to leave lumps and uneven skin than the new smart lipo. Traditional lipo IS good at eliminating overall disproportionate fat but isn't know for fine tuning like smart lipo is. Did you know it is recommended to have smart lipo in the same areas as previously lipoed areas? It's supposed to fine tune and get rid of any uneveness in addition to bulky, larger quantities of fat. For me, having smart lipo wss supposed to be my sure fix. I am open to discussion about improvement or lack there of but please don't waste you're time picking out all my imperfections before. I know I had some. I did however, expect them to improve (and still do).
I, like all of you, want this procedure to work. I'm not giving up hope yet, but have posted my review and these pictures to let other people decide for themselves if smart lipo is as good as it claims.
Julie
4/29/08
Julie and Bowling,
You don't know how much I appreciate your comments and pictures you do have as I try to decide on this Smartlipo issue. I love the idea of looking better, but don't want to do it if I'm not going to look better. I really don't care if I am smaller post-procedure and would mainly be doing it for the cellulite and to tighten my skin up a bit so I need to know as much as possible about that. And yes, my doctor too is telling me cellulite will be reduced and skin tightened.
As for the amount of pain I am tolerable of --not very tolerable. I am a big baby. Actually after I had my one baby 22 years ago I refused to ever discuss having another!! Partly because of the pain and partly because of the stretch marks so see I am vain too I guess. But that is why I want Smartlip. As far as cost, I would like to get more done at once if it costs less. And I figured you would get that garment-wearing business over with and all. Time off from work isn't an issue if done in the summer because I am a teacher.
Julie, as for your four week pics, I can't honestly say I see an improvement from the before pics. Please continue to post them. I see that little bit of cellulite under your hips is not gone either. But then, I've read you continue to see new results up to a year.
Donna
4/29/08
Julie,
About your photo updates - from what I can see you still look bruised - are you or is it just the lighting in the pictures? I think I do see some improvement.
Regarding how many areas/how much down time, it does depend a lot on your body's ability to recover. I bruise very easily. I have to keep reminding myself that I'll probably take longer to heal than others. I'm going wear the compression garment until my bruises are almost gone which will probably take 3-4 weeks.
I've been icing and am switching to warm compresses tonight, per info on the WebMd site. Seems you're only supposed to ice bruises for the first 48 hours then switch to warm. Who knew? This is, of course, the opposite treatment for swelling, where you're supposed to ice all the time. This will be tricky.
4/29/08
Dr. Grishkevich,
Could you answer a couple of questions for me?
Is it normal to look uneven for the first few weeks?
How soon after the procedure can I get the lymphatic massages and how many would you suggest, how far apart?
Are touch-ups on larger areas common?
4/30/08
Bowling Babe, I don't think I'm still bruised. The shadowing you see on the pictures is probably my cellulite. If you look at the very top picture you can see it too. I actually think it's the shadows of my fat lumps I wanted to have eliminated by smart lipo.
Donna, did you get more than one opinion? I've talked with 3 docs about lipo/smartlipo and they all say cellulite will not be helped with the procedure. See what your doctor says if you ask for a guarantee. If your cellulite is unchanged will he provide you with another treatment at no cost? I can guarantee that liposuction DID NOT help my cellulite. After my procedure 2 years ago, I started exercising regularly and I lost 10 pounds. That didn't help either.
If you're really only interested in tightening & cellulite control I would have to say you probably won't be happy with smart lipo. Have you asked the other people who submitted "positive" smartlipo reviews on this website? Perhaps they have a different opinion.
There are several websites giving info about cellulite. Some of course are more accurate than others. My favorite website, which I find to be most accurate is http://beauty.ivillage.com/skinbody/cellulite. It talks about the myths of cellulite. Everyone of their remarks is dead right!!!! To the question "liposuction removes cellulite" the answer is... "FALSE. Because tight bands of fibrous tissue cause cellulite, extracting the fat layer that resides just under the skin may actually worsen that dimpled look. "I would recommend liposuction for contour improvements in patients with stubborn fat deposits, but I would never recommend liposuction to anyone as a primary cellulite treatment," says Boynton Beach, Florida, plastic surgeon David Rosenstein, MD."
I'm very curious to see how this all turns out for you. Please keep me posted.
4/30/08
If anyone sees less dimpling...
For one week+ I have started using a cellulite cream called "Revitol". I've used it 3 times a day as directed for at least 5 days but wasn't noticing a difference. I started combining it with another cellulite cream called "Celrase" and have added massage for 60 seconds on each area at least 2x a day. At night, in addition to the other two creams, I use "Derma Sculpt" oil along with a "Derma Sculpt" pill I take twice a day. I massage my oily thighs at least 20 minutes everynight. In combining everything...it's a commitment for sure...I'm noticing a tiny bit of difference. I thought it's only fair to mention what great lengths I go through. It wouldn't be accurate to give smartlipo all the credit when it's not alone in my attempts.
4/30/08
Hi Julie,
Just like you i noticed the bumps and more dimples on my hips... also my banana roll is still there!
I need to start doing massages at least at night maybe that will help me a little. But just the waiting to see results is killing me!!!
I am going to see my Dr. in two days. I told them I haven't seen much result with the procedure and they said they will do whatever it takes to make me happy.
I will keep you posted. Thanks for sharing your pictures!
4/30/08
Hi Sarah,
Yes for sure I would like to share my experience since I had not found this site before I did the smart lipo.
For those of u that want fast results this procedure is not for you. I am still waiting on my results! and I am exactly two months after the procedure.
I can tell you that the results are so minimal that I called the Dr. and I am going to see what they say in two days. My Dr. even has a video in youtube of a lady that did smart lipo on her tummy and you can see results the next day! This is not my case for sure!!!
I just had so many hopes & not seeing improvements after paying 8K is very dicouraging.
We'll see what my Dr. visit brings. I will keep you posted!
4/30/08
Wow! That is discouraging!!! 2+ months and no noticeable difference?!!! I can't believe a liter came out and no results...that's crazy!!!! I wonder if it was mostly saline that came out then? It's good your doctor is willing to do it again...but bummer you'll have to go through it, huh?!
I get the bottom part of my butt treated in 2 weeks. It was missed in my initial procedure and of course the area I wanted most. It better work!!!!!
Has your doctor said why your results are so delayed? Could you ask him if it's common to have to do it more than once? Even with swelling you'd think you'd be able to notice some difference.
5/1/08
Well when I went to my postop appt. the Dr. said it might take up to 6 month to see full results. Like you said i should be able to see results since the swelling is all gone by now but this is not my case (Im still have hope tho.) I did noticed that all the fat that was taken out of my was all mixed with blood, it wasnt that dense fat as Ive seen on the surgery b4 & after program...
I do remember the surgery coordinator telling me that the dr. did the procedure twice to a pacient that he felt he was not aggresive anough, but that was only one case! I will ask again tomorrow and see what he tells me!
I will keep you post it.
Xenia
5/1/08
Please, do not take the phentermine, I took it - and now I have a valve problem, which only medication or surgery will correct.
5/1/08
Hi Xenia...
Was the fat removed more pink or bright red like blood. Pink is normal.
I can't help but think that your doctor's office might not be 100% forthwright. They might only tell you of the one case but actually have others. At least he's willing to do it again.
Are you sure your swelling is completely gone? I wonder why smartlipo seems to have more, and longer lasting swelling than traditional lipo. I'll be asking my doctor the same question. Besides my bunion foot surgery, I've not had such long lasting swelling. I really don't understand.
I'll tell you I'm loosing sleep about having my butt done. I'm concerned about it working and the amount of pain. I'm having breast augementation revision 5 days later too. That should be interesting to deal with all that pain!!!
I'm scaaared!
5/1/08
The fat was half pink and the rest was very red...
I am asking myself the same question about swelling cuz when I run it hurts a little.
What are you getting done in your butt? I got the smartlipo there too(beside the banana roll) and that didnt hurt as much as the legs. i wanted to have a smaller butt but the dr said he could not do much because it'll sagg so he contour the tip only.
I hope you dont get so much pain... if not, have a supply of pain killers on hand :o)
Please keep me posted. Xenia
5/1/08
Yes, I definately have pain when I run. Pretty tender always as a matter of fact.
The butt was my major goal to begin with. He didn't touch it but is making it right now. Basically it's the bottom 1/3 of my butt he'll lipo. I asked about sagging and he he felt confident it wouldn't. I trust him because he wouldn't treat my inner thighs because he said they would sag. It probably depends on the person and the area.
Interesting about the butt...I asked what the final result would be. He told me the gluteal fold (crease where your butt hits your leg) should stop in the center of your thigh. Not make a big "smile" like mine does. If you look at my before picture compared to now, it seems my fold has widened...the opposite of the desired effect.....hmmmm.
I'll send pictures after I get that done too. Thanks for letting me know it's not as painful as the legs. That really helps!
As for your suctioned fat...the bright red doesn't sound right at all, I must admit. I had no bright red. Perhaps you only got 1/2 a litter of fat instead of the whole litter. That would make more sense why you're not seeing as much results. When will he redo your procedure?
5/1/08
All depends what the Dr. says tomorrow.
5/2/08
Found it at GNC thanks!!
5/2/08
The total cost is 3600 including garmet and 4 treatments. This was both thighs...I felt the price was great. She has a very good reputation.
Thanks for posting pics..I'm not that brave..in fact I took some but got discouraged when I seen them. I kept hard copies but deleted the digital images. I think you can see some improvement. My thighs were MUCH worse than yours...I think I'll have to go back and get more taken out later. She took 2 liters out but I stored most of my bodyfat in my thigh area. I did lose 3 pounds in 3 days. I'm still positive but impatient. I started using a rolling pen last night. Do you think this really helps??? What other massaging do you use??
5/2/08
I would say maybe 7 incision including both thighs....I am VERY lumpy. I am concerned but I am encouraged when I read postings. Thanks again Julie.
5/2/08
I'm only 6 days post op...VERY LUMPY. But I to had cellulite before and was lumpy. Yes, I feel uneven. The bruising is getting better but I still feel swollen...My legs are real tight during the day. I teach first graders and never sit down. When I get up in the mornings is the worse. I'm very stiff. But keep in mind. None of this is unbearable. The more I move the better I feel. I'm not released to work out for another week. It's driving me crazy. I'm watching my diet very closely. My husband also says that my thighs are getting smaller. I'm kicking myself for not measuring. That is something I wish the DR. would have done. The only measurments they took were when they measured for my compression garmet.