Laser-assisted liposuction was developed in Europe and approved for use in the U.S. by the FDA in 2006. SmartLipo utilizes medical-grade lasers to create a light beam that ruptures and melts fat cells without causing trauma to the nearby blood vessels, nerves, and other soft tissue. By breaking up and melting the fat, it is easier to capture and suction away. Plus, the cannula required for suction is much smaller than in traditional liposuction, so the corresponding incisions are smaller, making for easy recovery and virtually no scarring. In addition to melting the fat and making it easier to remove, the laser in Smart Lipo has another benefit. After the fat in the target area has been removed, Dr. Aydin directs the laser at the dermis layer of the skin.
The heat energy triggers a wound response in the body, creating new collagen and elastin. Why is this valuable? Collagen and elastin are two proteins that provide the skin’s basic support system (collagen) and make the skin supple (elastin). As we age, collagen production drops one percent each year once we hit 20. Elastin drops in a similar fashion. That’s why our skin becomes saggy, loose, and brittle the older we get. By triggering new collagen and elastin production, the skin in areas treated with Smart Lipo tightens, adding to the overall contouring effect of the procedure. The laser also coagulates the blood vessels while melting the fat. This creates far less bleeding, bruising, and tissue trauma compared to traditional liposuction.