SmartLipo

In recent years, there have been many advancements in liposuction techniques, as well as new technologies that offer outstanding results, while minimizing swelling, bruising, and patient downtime.  SmartLipo is a minimally invasive, laser-assisted lipolysis procedure that removes unwanted fat from targeted areas, while promoting tissue coagulation and skin tightening.  SmartLipo is excellent for targeting localized fatty deposits in many areas, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, breasts, upper arms, neck, and back.*  SmartLip is also an outstanding tool for firming skin in areas that would benefit from skin tightening, but don’t necessarily require fat removal.  The most common areas for SmartLipo skin tightening include the neck, upper arms, and buttocks.  SmartLipo can also be combined with Cellulaze, the first laser FDA-cleared for cellulite treatment.  Together, SmartLipo and Cellulaze target the underlying causes of cellulite to reduce dimpling and tighten skin for a smoother and healthier looking appearance.  

Dr. Levine offers a full range of advanced liposuction options, including SmartLipo, VASER® LipoSelection, power assisted liposuction, and traditional tumescent and super wet liposuction.  Dr. Levine designs a customized approach for each patient, often combining different liposuction techniques in order to achieve the best fat removal, skin tightening, and overall body sculpting results.*  This page provides information about SmartLipo liposuction.  For information about other liposuction options, please visit our pages on traditional liposuction and VASER® LipoSelection. 

Procedure

Ideal Candidate

SmartLipo is not a substitute for diet and exercise, and the best candidates for SmartLipo will be near their normal body weight.  SmartLipo may be an excellent option for people who wish to shape and sculpt their body by removing small areas of excess fat.  SmartLipo is particularly helpful to treat areas that have not responded to traditional weight loss or exercise.  SmartLipo may also be a great option for people who wish to firm and tighten skin in targeted areas that don’t necessarily need fat removal, such as the neck, upper arms, or buttocks.*  Dr. Levine will meet with you to discuss your goals and expectations, and help you determine which liposuction technique or combination of techniques would be right for you.

SmartLipo

Absolutely.  SmartLipo is an excellent tool for skin tightening in many areas, even if you don’t want or need fat removed.  In fact, certain areas may appear to need fat removal, but a skilled plastic surgeon or dermatologist may realize that skin firming, rather than fat loss, will bring about the best results.*  Laser liposuction can help firm and tighten lax skin by heating the underlying tissue and promoting collagen growth.  The most common treatment areas for SmartLipo laser skin tightening are the neck, upper arms, and buttocks.  In some cases, SmartLipo may be used primarily for skin firming rather than volume reduction in other areas, such as the abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, and hips. 

Liposuction Types

We offer a full range of liposuction options, including SmartLipo laser-assisted liposuction, traditional tumescent and super wet liposuction, VASER® LipoSelection, and power assisted liposuction.  Often, a combination of different techniques will provide the best results for both fat removal and skin tightening.  Dr. Levine will discuss with you the best liposuction techniques or combination of techniques to suit your specific needs, and answer any questions that you may have.   

During the SmartLipo procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb the treatment areas.  Tiny incisions are made in order to allow the laser to access the fat layers beneath the skin.  The laser works to reduce the fat cells in targeted areas.  At the same time, the laser heats the underlying tissue, which will promote collagen remodeling and skin tightening in the months after your procedure.  Treated fat will be gently suctioned from the body.*  

Other Procedures

Yes.  A combination of different liposuction techniques will often provide the best overall body contouring results.  In addition, liposuction may be combined with other cosmetic procedures, including fat grafting, breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, facelift, tummy tuck, and Cellulaze cellulite treatment.  Dr. Levine will discuss with you which procedures or combination of procedures may best suit your specific needs. 

Preparation

During your initial consultation, Dr. Levine will thoroughly examine areas of excess fat in order to determine the amount and distribution of fat, as well as the quality of skin elasticity.   He will discuss with you which combination of liposuction procedures will help remove fat and tighten skin in targeted areas for the best body sculpting results.  Dr. Levine will thoroughly discuss your goals and expectations, including possible risks and the best way to prepare for your surgery.  He will let you know what to expect before, during, and after your procedure, and he will answer any questions that you may have. 

Anesthesia Types

If you are having SmartLipo alone, you will need only local anesthesia.  Your anesthesia needs may vary if you are combining SmartLipo with other liposuction techniques or cosmetic procedures.  You will discuss your procedure thoroughly with both Dr. Levine and our board-certified anesthesiologist to determine the best type of anesthesia for your needs. 

Expectations

SmartLipo can be performed in our state-of-the-art, in-office operating suite, which is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF).  The length of your procedure will vary, depending on the body areas treated. SmartLipo usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour for each area treated.*  After your procedure, you will be brought to our warm and caring recovery suite, where our licensed, registered nurse will make sure you are comfortable and assist in your recovery.  You may return home the same day.

Post Procedure

Every surgery is different, and you will receive detailed post-operative instructions for your specific needs.  In general, you can expect to have very mild bruising and swelling for 1 week after your procedure.*  At Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC, our concern for you doesn’t end when you go home.  We’re dedicated to providing ongoing care to ensure a fast, safe, and smooth recovery.  Dr. Levine will see you for post-operative visits, and he and our staff stand ready to answer any questions you may have about your recovery, as well as your overall health and well-being. 

Results

One of the many wonderful qualities that sets us apart at Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC is our ability to use a multidisciplinary approach to optimize results.  With expertise in both plastic surgery and dermatology, Dr. Elie Levine and Dr. Jody Levine work together to help prepare, protect, and treat the skin before, during, and after your procedure.  As one of New York’s leading dermatologists, Dr. Jody Levine will customize a skincare regimen that includes pre-surgical measures to optimize your skin, as well as post-surgical skincare that can help prevent irritation, alleviate bruising and inflammation, and promote faster healing.   Unlike other practices, we include these unique pre- and post-surgery skincare packages as part of your surgical plan.  Our pre-surgery facials and microdermabrasion treatments help prepare your skin for surgery and ensure the best recuperation.  Post-operative packages include lymphatic massage with our skilled medical aesthetician in order to enhance circulation, support healing and improved immunity function, and leave the skin looking radiant and healthy.*  With our extensive array of lasers, we are able to provide post-surgical laser treatments to best accelerate your healing.  The Drs. Levine will be happy to discuss with you the best skincare approach for your specific needs. 

Contact

Dr. Elie Levine will be happy to meet with you to discuss post-bariatric weight loss procedures. Please call our office at (212) 988-1800, or make an appointment online for a personal consultation in our New York City offices.