Laser-assisted liposuction (or Smart Lipo as it is commonly known) uses laser light to heat and destroy undesired fat. This fat is then removed by conventional (vacuum) liposuction. The added benefit to Smart Lipo is the skin tightening effect. Much like laser skin resurfacing, the Smart Lipo laser actually provides skin tightening through heating of the undersurface of the skin. This stimulates new collagen formation and provides the desired effects on skin texture and firmness. Similar to conventional (vacuum) liposuction, laser-assisted liposuction uses tumescent fluid prior to the procedure. This fluid includes saline, epinephrine (for hemostasis/decreased bleeding), and lidocaine (for local anesthesia/pain control). While much of this fluid is suction out at the end of the case, some fluid remains. In combination with the edema fluid that occurs after any type of liposuction, this fluid can contribute to residual swelling in the area. While this has generally resolved over a 4-6 week time course, it is best to wait 2-3 months prior to proceeding with a different area. This will allow the adjacent contours to be assessed with greatest accuracy, and will limit the overall procedural risks.