The SoCal Cosmetic Network

Cosmetic procedures are still evolving

December 17, 2008, Cosmetic surgery is constantly changing as it is shaped by technology and innovative procedures. In the last two years, for example, plastic surgeons have begun offering several new liposuction techniques.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, laser-assisted liposuction — or SmartLipo — is a body contouring surgery that uses laser energy during a significant portion of the procedure. As one of the newest liposuction techniques, it was introduced in 2007. And SmartLipo is the first laser to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration for fat dissolution.

Dr. John Sampson of Argyle Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 1514 Fourth St. in Jackson, said he has used SmartLipo for about 18 months. While statistics don’t specifically track SmartLipo, traditional liposuction or lipoplasty is one of the five most popular cosmetic surgical procedures, with more than 300,000 procedures performed in 2007.

SmartLipo produces a burst of energy and heat as it enters fatty tissue, liquefying the fat, Sampson said. To work properly, laser-assisted liposuction requires the use of tumescent solution and standard liposuction to remove the fat.

The laser energy is delivered by a thin fiber inserted through small incisions in the skin, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. In addition to breaking up fat cells, the laser aids in the healing process and the tightening of a patient’s skin, Sampson said.

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery says the laser coagulates small blood vessels in the skin’s deep layer, leading to less bruising following surgery. “The recovery is faster,” Sampson said.

And when the laser is used just under the skin, it stimulates skin cells to produce more collagen and elastin, enhancing skin quality. Sampson said SmartLipo tends to work best on smaller problem areas, such as the arms, neck and chin.

SmartLipo costs about the same as traditional liposuction, Sampson said. Surgeon fees generally start around $3,000. Possible side effects include swelling, bruising, burns, numbness and minimal bleeding.

Good candidates for laser-assisted liposuction have excess fat in moderate amounts and skin laxity.

Dr. Pramit Malhotra, director of Malhotra Center for Plastic Surgery, 900 E. Michigan Ave. in Jackson, said he doesn’t offer this procedure yet, even though he does regularly perform traditional liposuction techniques. He said he “tries to pick procedures carefully” and is hoping the second generation of lasers used for liposuction will be even better.

Last year, Malhotra offered a procedure called lipodissolve, or injection lipolysis, for a few months but stopped using it when he didn’t see the results or the patient satisfaction he had expected. Lipodissolve, which has not been approved by the FDA, promises to melt away fat with only a few injections and claims to work well in small areas such as the chin and love handles.

By: Ingrid Jacques, For the Citizen Patriot

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