Get the real deal on beauty treatments—real doctors, real reviews, and real photos with real results.Here's how we earn your trust.

POSTED UNDER Smart Lipo REVIEWS

40th Birthday Present to Myself - Plymouth Meeting, PA

ORIGINAL POST

I had lost a significant amount of weight when I...

JJ 001
WORTH IT$3,995
I had lost a significant amount of weight when I was younger and had always carried around a bit of a tire around my waist since then. Along with maturity, gravity kicked in and my tire was turning into an apron.
I had considered Smart Lipo for about 5 years before I decided to go forward. Although there are many "Spa" options to select from in my area, I felt most comfortable with a board certified plastic surgeon.
I had the lower abdomen, right and left flank (love handles) done. The procedure itself was a lot easier than I thought it would be. With the assistance of a minor relaxer it seemed like it was over before it began. I was awake and even shared minor conversation during the procedure until I fell asleep. Other than the occasional pinch there was no pain, no bruising, and no bleeding. Recovery was almost as easy; I had a prescription for pain killers but I didn't need them. I did experience swelling, however, this was minimized with the usage of the compression belt. Had the procedure done on a Saturday morning and was back to work that Monday after. After about 10 days I was back to my routine workout schedule, I would recommend lower impact at first; jumping or giggling is sensitive. I am glad I had this done when I could still wear a light coat to cover the compression belt.
I began to notice a difference within the first two weeks. When I sit or crunch my abdomen the tire is minimal compared to pre-procedure. The pooch between my belly button and belt line is noticeably flatter, and my obliques have definition.
Almost 2 months in, my experience is a good a good one so far. The only inconvenience I can think of is removing the band-aids from my hairy stomach and the compression belt can be a bit of a pain, but it is worth it as it does keep the swelling down. Overall I am satisfied with my results now and I am told it will only improve as the collagen rebuilds over the next 4 months.
My advice, keep realistic exceptions; Don't expect significant weight loss. This procedure removed small fatty areas that diet and exercise didn't. After years of working out I can now see the muscle/lines in my abdomen because of the contouring and skin tightening.
End result; I am, have, and would recommend this procedure, I would do it again in a heartbeat.

JJ 001's provider

Scott A. Brenman, MD, FACS

Scott A. Brenman, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

JJ 001 rating for Dr. Brenman:

Overall rating
Doctor's bedside manner
Answered my questions
After care follow-up
Time spent with me
Phone or email responsiveness
Staff professionalism & courtesy
Payment process
Wait times

Replies (15)

May 21, 2015
Wow looks like you got great results. I'm curious to know...did you experience any hard areas, lumps or numbing? I got smartlipo done on my arms and I have hard areas, numbing and bumps. I'm only 3 weeks out so I'm hoping they will go away in time. I'm wondering if working out as soon as you did also helped.
May 21, 2015
Hi Jess, No, although the areas I received Smart Lipo treatment I don't think are as tricky, but don't quote me on that. I did experience numbing and even almost 2 months out if I feel around the areas I think I may still have some on the hip areas. I have so far experienced no lumping though, the small incisions (total of 4) are still there but are healing, barely noticeable to someone unless you look directly at them. I should also mention (and may update the review) I did gently massage the areas daily along with wearing the compression belt 24/7 (exception of bathing). I applied firm pressure when massaging but stopped short of any pain; yes, it's sensitive, but it shouldn't hurt. And of course, I would also ask your doctor's advice. If you worked out prior to the procedure I would try starting off with some low impact exercise; rapid or strenuous movement to the areas worked on will hurt, it's a sharp pain so I would limit that until you know you are ready. Good Luck!
User Avatar
May 21, 2015
Been considering this procedure myself for about a year now. Thank you for a honest & realistic review. Male or female, the procedure helps those who can maintain a healthy lifestyle. Congrats to you & the great results
May 21, 2015
Hey Cheryl, Thanks for the comment. Healthy lifestyle is key, I stick to a pretty balanced diet and workout about 5 days a week (TRX, strength, Yoga, Pilates, circuit). I had the abs, it was just that I also had a layer of loose skin and some fat over top of them. My motivation for Smart Lipo was for myself, this was something I wanted to do for me. I had no expectations on being on the cover of Men's Fitness the following week. I would be somewhat cautious of the "Spa" facilities, some times the consultations are performed by non-medical people that are commission based. Shop around, ask a lot of questions; How many procedures have you performed in the past year? What if any were the difficulties you have encountered? Can I speak to the last patient you performed the procedure on? etc.. Good luck!
May 21, 2015
Forgot to add, if anyone tells you Smart Lipo is a great weight loss procedure I would consider moving on to a different Dr./facility. If/When asked I tell my friends/family it is a great contouring/tightening procedure with some stuburn fat removal that is far less invasive then other procedures available (traditional lipo, tummy tuck, etc.)
May 21, 2015
Wow! U look amazing!!
May 21, 2015
Thank you! I will admit, I work out often and follow a fairly nutritional diet. Smart Lipo wasn't a magic wand but it sure helped!
May 22, 2015

You really look great!  Congrats!

May 22, 2015
Thanks Jill! Now I just need to keep up the lifestyle to maximize the benefits!
May 26, 2015

I'm sure having those abs will help motivate you to stay active and keep them :)

May 22, 2015
Thank you. Yes the arms are a bit more sensitive Because the skin is a lot thinner. I know I'm still healing..it has only been 3 weeks and I still have soreness/sharp pains. I believe it is due to the scar tissue repairing itself. I massage as well and wear my garment 24/7. I just hope the hard areas will go away. My arms look great...and the hard areas are only noticeable to the touch. Anyhow, thanks for responding. Your doctor did a great job. You look great!