When you decide to have a SmartLipo® procedure, it’s important to understand what will be needed for your postoperative recovery period and how to prepare for it. Even if you’ve had experience with other similar procedures, SmartLipo® recovery has some different needs.
What Does SmartLipo® Involve?
SmartLipo® is an advanced technique that is used to remove unwanted, stubborn fat from certain areas of the body. This procedure is safer and less invasive than traditional liposuction where laser energy is used to liquefy fat and make it easier to remove from the body. The power of the laser also stimulates the production of collagen in the skin surrounding the target area, making your results more prominent, and helping tighten the skin in the area.
Due to its ability to target smaller areas, SmartLipo® can be performed just about anywhere on the body where fat deposits are collected. The most common areas targeted include:
- Abdomen
- Waist
- Thighs
- Buttocks
- Arms
- Calves
- Ankles
- Neck
- Cheeks
- Chin and jawline
- Chest
- Back
- Bra bulge
his procedure removes melted fat and other fluids from the body. The exact amount depends on the person; your size and body composition play a role in the amount of fluids and fat extracted. The location can also affect this, where small areas have less fat, so you won’t see as much coming out of the body in these areas.
Is SmartLipo® For Me?
his procedure is not right for everyone, especially those who struggle with obesity, who don’t exercise, and who don’t eat a healthy diet. SmartLipo® is meant for people who have stubborn excess fat that doesn’t go away with diet and exercise.
his is a weight-loss procedure, however, it is not a solution to obesity, but a tool to help those on a weight loss journey to target those problem fat areas after significant weight loss has been achieved. The best candidates for this procedure are those who are close to their ideal body weight already.
Skin elasticity is another factor that comes into play when considering SmartLipo®. One of the major benefits of this procedure is the skin-firming effect, however, this works best for those who have good skin elasticity. The lasers help tighten the skin, but have limitations; if your skin has a natural elasticity, you will have a better chance of seeing the best results.
Finally, the last thing to consider would be recovery time. Some people may struggle with pain and swelling. This means, that if SmartLipo® is something you’re looking into, make sure you review the recovery experiences of others to ensure that you are prepared and ready for a recovery like this one. Even though it is not as invasive as traditional liposuction, SmartLipo® still has some pain associated with it, and some people may be more sensitive to this than others.
How Long Does Recovery Last After SmartLipo®?
One of the many benefits of SmartLipo® over traditional liposuction is the shortened recovery time. Because it is so much less invasive, the results from SmartLipo® involve less pain and discomfort, reduced bruising, reduced swelling, and way less downtime.
Depending on how many areas are targeted, where they are located, and how much fat is removed from the area, recovery time varies. Most people who have the procedure are asked to rest for two days and can return to work within two to four days. Exercise and other strenuous activities are restricted for one week up to 10 days depending on the specifics of each person’s procedure. It’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions for recovery to make sure you get the best results and quickest recovery possible.
What Can I do to Prepare for Recovery from My SmartLipo® Procedure?
It would be ideal to prepare a space in your home to designate as your recovery area, a place for relaxing and resting during the first 2 days after your procedure. A couch or a bed may be necessary depending on the location you are having worked on, and consider what you’d like to have within reach during this recovery time.
A basket may be a good idea to fill with your supplies. See what kind of medical supplies you’ll need such as gauze, ointment, pain medication, or ice packs to apply to any swollen areas. There may be specific instructions for you to follow for your incision that you may want to stock up for in this basket.
Next, you can gather some entertainment for yourself while you recover. Magazines, books, a list of TV shows, movies, crossword puzzles, knitting or crocheting, and so on. Depending on what area of the body you are getting worked on, some activities may irritate your incision, so keep your options open. You can also add to your basket some of your favorite snacks, water bottles, drinks, and more!
Pillows and blankets are key. You want to be comfortable in this space you’re creating for yourself. Keep some PJs or some loose-fitting clothing on hand as well to ensure you are comfortable during this time.
What Should I Watch for After my SmartLipo® Procedure?
Complications from SmartLipo® rarely occur, however, any time incisions are involved, there is a slight risk of developing a bacterial infection. If you notice any unusual swelling, redness, or pain around the incisions, make sure you call your doctor right away and explain your symptoms.