Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. Hong and his caring staff believe that patient education plays an important role in a successful operation and recovery process. Below is a list of frequently asked questions regarding the SmartLipo™ cosmetic procedure.

How does LaserBodySculpting work?
Who is a good candidate for the SmartLipo™ procedure?
What are the advantages of Smartlipo™?
What body regions can be treated with SmartLipo™?
How many treatments will I need?
How long does the procedure take to perform?  
Do I have to do anything post-treatment?
Does SmartLipo™ treat cellulite?
When can I expect to see results?
Does laser-assisted liposuction produce lasting results?

How does LaserBodySculpting work?

This laser-assisted lipolysis procedure is performed using a one millimeter cannula (or tube) that is inserted into the skin. The laser fiber inside of the cannula delivers energy directly to fat cells, causing them to rupture and drain away as liquid. Simultaneously, tissue around the area coagulates, resulting in overall tighter skin tissue.

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Who is a good candidate for the SmartLipo™ procedure?

If you have areas of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise, then you are a candidate for SmartLipo™. Ideal candidates are in good health, of normal body weight and have realistic expectations for the results.

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What are the advantages of SmartLipo™?

-Minimal downtime — We normally advise a day or two of rest; however, some of our patients are able to return to work immediately.

-Minimal discomfort — There is no pain during the SmartLipo™ procedure. Once anesthesia wears off, patients may experience pain that is similar to those felt after an vigorous workout. The degree of pain or discomfort felt after SmartLipo™ is unlike the intense pain felt after traditional liposuction. In addition, bruising occurs less often with SmartLipo™ than with traditional liposuction.

-Less traumatic — The fiber-optic cannula is inserted through a small puncture in the skin usually along skin creases to help conceal the entry spot. As the laser melts fat away, it also coagulates loose ends of small blood vessels. Compression garments are optional as the area will not bleed much once the laser is removed.

-Post-operative appearance — After three months, skin should be completely healed and have a normal appearance. It is very hard to find the insertion points by looking at the skin, making it hard to tell that liposuction was even performed.

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What body regions can be treated with SmartLipo™?

The SmartLipo™ procedure is ideal for treating small areas of the face, neck, arms, knees, back, bra strap, mons pubis, male "breasts", and other areas with loose and flabby skin.

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How many treatments will I need?

For most patients, only one SmartLipo™ treatment is required.

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How long does the procedure take to perform?

The treatment session may last from 45 minutes to one hour, depending on the area to be treated.

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Do I have to do anything post-treatment?

After the SmartLipo™ treatment, you will have minimal pain or bruising. We recommend 1-2 days rest but most patients are able to return to work immediately. A compressive garment may also be recommended depending on the area(s) treated.

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Does SmartLipo™ treat cellulite?

The procedure will improve the body's shape and may improve cellulite to a certain degree, as well as tighten sagging skin.

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When can I expect to see results?

Results from the SmartLipo™ treatment can be seen immediately with continued improvement over the next several months.

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Does laser-assisted liposuction produce lasting results?

Yes! Adults do not create new fat cells. When a person gains weight, the fat cells expand. The SmartLipo™ procedure permanently removes the fat cells. Should you gain weight, most fat will be deposited in areas where the procedure was not performed.

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Learn How You Can Benefit From SmartLipo™ Treatment!

SmartLipo™ is a state-of-the-art laser liposuction treatment that delivers beautiful, natural-looking results with minimal scarring and downtime. Find out how you can achieve your cosmetic goals with SmartLipo™! Contact our practice to schedule a free complimentary consultation. Ask about our monthly specials.