Question 1

What is SlimLipo?

Accepted Answer

SlimLipo is an FDA-cleared fat-reducing, skin-tightening, and smoothing procedure that uses laser-wavelength technology to liquefy fat in specific areas of the body, including the stomach, hips, thighs, butt, arms, neck, and chin. The use of two different wavelengths, at 924 nanometers and 975 nanometers (either independently or together), allows the process to be faster and more effective than single-wavelength lipo systems. Some consider it a lighter, easier form of liposuction, since it reduces the side effects and recovery time associated with the more intensive (and invasive) traditional liposuction. Patients have local anesthesia to numb the area but are awake throughout.

During the procedure, small incisions are made to the targeted area, to allow the laser and fat-suctioning cannula to be inserted. The device serves several purposes: it melts the fat (unlike CoolSculpting which freezes and kills fat cells), heats the skin to firm and tighten it, and allows the surgeon to contour the area with fewer lumps and ripples.

SlimLipo recovery usually requires a few days of downtime and rest, especially the day of the procedure. Expect to experience some swelling, bruising, and minor discomfort that may last for several weeks. You should see results immediately, though the swelling may remain for several months. Keep exercise to a minimum for one to two weeks post-procedure.

You may need maintenance treatments, depending on whether you experience a fluctuation in weight (there will still be some remaining fat cells, which can enlarge if you gain weight). No new fat cells will develop in the area that received the treatment, but you may notice weight and fat gain in other areas.

Question 2

What are the pros and cons of SlimLipo?

Accepted Answer

Pros

Recovery time is minimal, approximately one to two days, since you are not under general anesthesia.
Laser technology makes the procedure less painful and invasive than standard liposuction.
The incisions for SlimLipo are smaller than those for other forms of liposuction, resulting in less bruising and blood loss during the treatment.
Fat is reduced in targeted areas, cellulite is minimized, and skin is tightened.
It eliminates stubborn fat that has proved resistant to exercise and diet.
A study conducted by Dr. Robert Weiss, director of the Maryland Laser, Skin and Vein Institute, found that the SlimLipo procedure had an overall satisfaction rate of 98% among 88 patients, with achieved results lasting for two years.

Cons

It’s costly, especially if you plan on targeting more than one area, and may require more than one appointment for multiple areas.
Depending on your tolerance to pain, you may have soreness and difficulty moving the area of your body that received the treatment for up to several weeks.
Some RealSelf members say they had lumpy skin in their targeted area, as a result of the treatment, that wouldn’t go away—even several months post-surgery.
There will be some drainage associated with the melting of the fat, and it may last for up to 24 hours after surgery. (Drainage from standard lipo usually lasts between 72 and 96 hours.)
It does require more recovery time than noninvasive fat reduction procedures, like CoolSculpting.

Question 3

How much does SlimLipo cost?

Accepted Answer

The price you pay will depend on how many areas you have treated, how many procedures you split the treatment into, area size, and how much fat is removed. Typically, SlimLipo and liposuction are not covered by medical insurance, since they are considered cosmetic procedures.

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