Is Smart Lipo a Scam? Why Do So Many Plastic Surgeons NOT Do It?

       As someone who recently graduated from Harvard plastic surgery fellowship and as someone who performs hundreds of liposuction procedures each year, I have used ultrasonic, conventional, and smart lipo.  There are elements of each that I do not like.  However, I still think that the conventional liposuction gives great results with the fewest number of complications.   Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Smart Liposuction is a technology that has been well accepted over the last several years.  It has been shown scientifically how the laser can tighten the skin and melt the fat with less trauma and healing time than traditional liposuction.  The technology has also improved over the years as the laser power gets stronger. Some surgeons may not do it because of the significant cost of buying and maintaining the laser.  However, when performed on the proper patient, Smartlipo is an excellent choice for targeting smaller areas like the neck, arms, and thighs. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon when scheduling surgery.

A good surgeon will get a good result with each of the several variations of liposuction available. Each method has its own minor advantages and disadvantages.

Smartlipo refers to the laser which melts the fat and also creates some skin tightening. The fat still needs to be suctioned, following the lasering. The neck and arms especially will show the benefits of the laser for tightening.