Why does Lipo burn? (Photo)

Question

I've had smartlipo done on me here in the U.S. and I didn't have Lipo burns. Unfortunately the procedure was only done on my lower abs because the Doctor later tells me during my post-op follow up that he doesn't do smartlipo on upper abdominals. I'm going for a second round to finish the upper portion, however I'm concerned about these Lipo burns I keep hearing about. Please inform me on why these Lipo burns occur! Thanks

Marco A. Pelosi III, MD, FACOG, FACS · Answer

The nasty appearance of your belly looks like skin that has been traumatized, but not burned. Without a time frame of when the photo was take after surgery, it is not possible to be more specific.

Melinda Lirag Lacerna-Kimbrell, MD, FACS · Answer

Most lipo lasers have a control setting so that the highest amount stops before it can cause serious damage. However if this setting is overrode, the surgeon can become over zealous with the laser and burn the patient internally. I suggest being that the surgeon you used is a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in laser liposuction before doing the second procedure.Thank you for your question and for sharing your picture!Melinda Lacerna, MD FACS

Steven Fowler, MD, FACS · Answer

SmartLipo burns are from the surgeon being too aggressive with the laser. Most lasers have temperature controls on the tip of the instrument to give the operator a sense of the relative heat buildup. This should allow them to avoid excess temperatures which could lead to skin changes(burns). Cautious surgeons will also monitor the external skin temperature with an IR thermometer to ensure avoidance of burns. Regardless of the safe practices employed, burns can happen, but they should be Extremely Rare.Ask your cosmetic surgeon their experience with SmartLipo and if they have ever had a burn. Transparency in outcomes is the best method for choosing a qualified surgeon to perform your procedure.

Why does Lipo burn? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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Why does Lipo burn? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.