Cosmetic Surgery & Anti-Aging
SmartLipo™ with Tumescent Technology
SmartLipo™ is a great procedure to take off what dieting won’t
Here at Atlanta Medical Day Spa & Surgery Center, LLC we perform all liposuction procedures using SmartLipo™ and Tumescent technology. In combining these technology patients receive better results with a safer, quicker and cost-effective method. It will remove that unwanted and stubborn fat. SmartLipo™ is also a great procedure to contour area, such as the abdomen, or to jumpstart weight loss. This procedure can be performed on most areas including: under the chin, jowls, arms, gynecomastia (enlarged breasts), abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, around the knees, and the bottom. This procedure also leaves the tiniest of scars, because the incisions are so small no sutures are required. During this procedure a fat transfer can also be done to fill and plump areas such as the gluteal region, deep scars, or the décolletage.
SmartLipo™ and Tumescent Technology
SmartLipo™ is an advanced addition to th typical liposuction procedures. It allows the Doctor to get a smoother and tighter appearance and texture to the skin. It also prevents the patient from having cannula lines on the treated area. By using SmartLipo™ technology, it allows the Doctors at Atlanta Medical Day Spa & Surgery Center to target small areas such as under the chin and used on large area such as the abdomen. SmartLipo™ was the first laser to be approved by the FDA to be used for fat dissolution and removal with tumescent liposuction. Introduced in 2007, this laser technology utilizes a 1319/1064 wave length that targets red blood cells and thus results in less blood loss. In addition, it produces a burst of energy as it enters the fatty tissue that dissolves the fat so it can be removed by suctioning. This improves the safety of the procedure by being able to melt the fat without heating the tissue excessively. Smaller areas of melted fat can actually reabsorb into the body and may not even need suctioning for optimal results. This technology reduces risks and the surgical time by melting the fat making it easier to remove it with the cannula. With Tumescent technology the areas are locally numbed while the patient is under conscious sedation. The minimal invasiveness of the procedure allows patients to see faster results and to experience fewer complications. SmartLipo™ carries much fewer risks than traditional liposuction, and the recovery time is much shorter.
Liposuction
Developed by French surgeons over 15 years ago, it is most popularly called liposuction. This surgical procedure permanently removes genetically inherited deposits of fat that cannot easily be removed by exercise or dieting. Specially trained surgeons, like the ones here at Atlanta Medical Day Spa & Surgery Center, LLC utilizing a high pressure vacuum, are now able to remove fat cells through tiny incisions in the skin utilizing a blunt-ended instrument called a cannula.
The Procedure
Smart Lipo with Tumescent technology is performed in our office operating rooms at Atlanta Medical Day Spa and Surgery Center, LLC. The patient is under conscious sedation while tumescent technology is used to locally numb the area. This technique is a procedure that utilizes fluids and dilutes lidocaine to fill and expand the fat compartment. This injected solution also contains epinephrine, which forces the small blood vessels to constrict so that there is almost no bleeding during the procedure. This technique increases the margin of safety while decreasing the likelihood of surface (skin) irregularities, improves the safety of large volume liposuction, greatly reduces the risk of surgical blood loss, and eliminates the risk involved with general, intubated anesthesia. Because of the decreased bleeding, the surgeon can remove more fat from each area. Small incisions are made for the cannula to enter. SmartLipo™ laser system uses a carefully calibrated laser to liquefy fat deposits through the top layers of the patient's skin. The laser actually ruptures fat cells, and the resulting oily, liquid substance is then removed through a tiny incision in the skin by the surgeon. The small laser can also seal blood vessels as it zaps fat, so there is less swelling, bleeding and bruising than with traditional liposuction. The minimal invasiveness of the procedure allows patients to see faster results and to experience fewer complications. A cannula is then inserted to remove the fat and contour the desired shape of the area to reveal smoother and tighter areas.
The incisions are then covered with Neosporin and gauze to absorb the drainage, which usually lasts one day. It may drain a few days longer depending how much fat was liquefied using the SmartLipo™ laser. The patient will then be instructed to wear a compression garment to increase healing time and give the treated areas support. These garments help decrease swelling and reduce the incidence of complications such as lumpiness and bleeding. The garment is worn for several weeks. Typically, the patient feels well enough to go out in public the next day.
The ultimate goal of patient satisfaction has been achieved through our state of the art liposuction techniques.
What Can SmartLipo™ Do For You?
Weight loss can be a struggle for many of us. After most of the weight has been lost we still struggle with those last extra bulges. Even with dieting and exercise some areas remain. This is why SmartLipo™ is so appealing. It contours your body, or can be used to jumpstart weight loss. A common procedure among women is to have the lower abdomen that is remaining from past pregnancies or weight gain. This is very easily done with SmartLipo™ along with all other areas. Men are more likely to desire fat reduction of the abdomen, "love handles," and chest. Liposuction is a relatively simple surgical procedure with a growing number of applications.
Facial Sculpting Has Become A Reality
SmartLipo of the jowls is a common procedure done with our Quicklift™ procedure to enhance results. It can also be done under the chin with or without the Quicklift™ procedure.
Facial Fillers and Facial Rejuvenation with SmartLipo™
Botox® Cosmetic and facial filler injections, such as Restylane®, Juvéderm™, Sculptra®, Evolence, Perlane ®, and Radiesse® are some of the most popular non-surgical treatments for fine facial lines and wrinkles used at Atlanta Medical Day Spa and Surgry Center. These treatments can be used in combination with each other or with any surgical procedure such as blepharoplasty, SmartLipo, or Quicklift procedures. For instance, Smartlipo™ can be used on the submental (2nd neck) and Juvéderm™ placed into those laugh lines around the mouth. The results gives the face an rejuvenated appearance.
Body Contouring With Liposuction Surgery
Procedures for body contouring by fat removal in the past have involved extensive operations, long hospitalizations, and long scars. These "cosmetic" procedures left much to be desired. In addition to the unsightly scars, postoperative complications were frequent. Persons with only moderate deposits of fat usually have not been willing to trade these fat deposits for the risks and scars.
SmartLipo™ is an improved technique for body contouring that offers good cosmetic results, significantly fewer risks for the patient, imperceptible scars, and infrequent post-operative complications. This "new procedure" is being performed in our office utilizing conscious sedation and local anesthesia.
Concept of SmartLipo™
Fat cells are first melted and then sucked out utilizing a high-pressure vacuum suction through a metal tube with a blunt tip (cannula) that is placed under the skin through tiny incisions. The technique is ideally suited for the removal of fat deposits in the hips, buttocks, thighs, abdomen, and chest. These same techniques can also be used on t he under the chin, jowls, arms, gynecomastia (enlarged breasts), abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, around the knees, and the bottom. This technique is NOT for the generally obese patient, and it is NOT a substitute for weight loss and exercise.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is anyone who has unwanted stubborn fat. SmartLipo™ is not ideal for severely obese patients due to the fact that once the fat is removed the excess skin will hang. Certain areas are genetically predetermined to accumulate fat. These fat deposits are unresponsive to diets, and they resist any change despite extensive exercise. During the consultation with the Doctor your medical history will be reviewed and a physical performed to determine if you are a good candidate for SmartLipo™.
Postoperative Care and Expectations
Recovery from SmartLipo™ surgery can be remarkably rapid. Some discomfort is normal, but mild analgesics such as extra strength Tylenol are usually sufficient for relief. There is generally no pain felt after the procedure, only sore and tight muscle, especially if the abdomen was done. Most relate it to a vigorous workout. Bruising is normal but minimized by the special garments. The garment is also important for proper adherence of the skin to the underlying tissue. Exact recommendations for each area are made according to the individual patient's needs. Most patients are able to return to their sedentary jobs within a matter of days.
Adverse Effects and Possible Dangers
As with any surgical procedure, patients must be followed carefully and all problems must be reported promptly to the physician. No long-term adverse effects or consequences occur when this procedure is performed properly. Bruising is normal, and temporary numbness in the overlying skin may occur. Numbness typically resolves spontaneously within six months. With all surgical procedures there is a risk for infection, however, all efforts are made to prevent this and Atlanta Medical Day Spa & Surgery Center, adheres to the highest standard of infection control.
In Summary
1. Body contouring through suction fat removal is ideally suited for fat deposits in under the chin, jowls, arms, gynecomastia (enlarged breasts), abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, around the knees, and the bottom.
2. In our office, the procedure is done under conscious sedation with local anesthesia. The pain is minimal and a compressive garment is worn to prevent fluid accumulation under the skin and to allow proper molding after the procedure.
3. Both men and women can be treated by liposuction, and the most common area of body contouring in men is the abdomen, "love handles," and chest; in women the most common treatment areas are the saddlebags, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, knees, neck, and face.
4. Postoperative recuperation varies from two to seven days, depending on the areas treated.
5. Liposuction is not meant for weight reduction or for the correction of generalized obesity. It is not a substitute for weight loss.
Questions If You're Considering Liposuction
How Far Are You From Your Ideal Weight For Height And Age?
Remember that SmartLipo™ is not a form of weight loss but, rather, contouring for problem areas. SmartLipo™ can also jump start weight loss in individuals that need to lose a minimal amount of weight.
What Are Your Expectations?
It is Atlanta Medical Day Spa and Surgery Center’s goal to achieve each individual’s desired results and goals.
How Will It Affect Your Work Schedule?
This depends on the area involved and on job demands. Some people are sore and tired for up to two weeks, but most can return to work in as little as one day with just feeling sore.
What Is Your Motivation And Emotional Stability?
Although your physical contours can be shaped, it cannot reshape your life; it may improve your self-confidence, but weight can still be gained in other areas of the body. A healthy lifestyle is recommended to maintain the desired weight and look.
Can I Afford The Procedure?
Cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance policies. All cosmetic surgeries are prepaid. An in office consultation is required to determine the exact cost of the procedure. Contact the office for details on payments and payment options.
Am I A Good Candidate?
A consultation with the Doctor complete with history and physical will determine if you area good candidate for SmartLipo™.
Am I Willing To Keep Off The Weight That I Have Lost By Dieting?
Body contouring actually is a positive reinforcement to your new self-image, but one should be weight conscious or weight committed after liposuction as one could still gain weight in other areas of the body.
Do I Have Any Special Medical Problems That Should Be Considered?
Ones entire medical history and a current physical will be necessary in determining the procedure that would benefit you the most. Never shield information, medications, or previous illnesses from your doctor. Don't put yourself or your future good health in jeopardy.
Liposuction Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions are most frequently asked regarding liposuction surgery. Not all of them can be answered specifically, and some may not apply to you. Therefore, specific questions that you might have should be addressed directly to the physician during the consultation.
Can Both Males And Females Be Treated With This Technique?
Absolutely, SmartLipo™ will benefit you no matter the gender.
Is The Procedure Painful?
There is minimal discomfort or soreness in the postoperative areas and it can be controlled by mild analgesics such as Tylenol. Most relate this discomfort to a vigorous workout. During the procedure you will not feel anything due to the comfort measures employed at Atlanta Medical Day Spa & Surgery Center.
How Long Will The Patient Be Off Work?
Most patients can return to work after one day. The garment will cover all treated areas. If the arms are treated the patient may prefer to wear sleeves to conceal it.
Where Will The Incisions Be Made And How Long Will They Be?
The incisions are so small they do not even require sutures to close them. They usually stop draining in one day and heal gradually. The incisions are strategically placed to disguise the location.
How Many Pounds Can Be Taken Off?
Weight loss may be minimal because fat weighs very little. However, there will be a noticeable loss in inches.
What Will Happen To Any Excess Skin?
Skin is a dynamic organ whose elasticity enables it to adjust to the new body contour. The SmartLipo™ laser enhances skin tightness during the procedure. After the procedure the elastic garment also increases the elasticity of the skin.
Will I Be Bruised?
There may be mild bruising at the incision site. Bruising can also be determined by age, intake of daily Aspirin, smoking, etc. There are measures that can be taken to prevent bruising; this will be gone over in your pre-op appointment.
Will The Fat Regrow?
Fat cells are developed during childhood and puberty. Some theorists say that new fat cells develop after puberty. This is not a proven fact. We feel that the fat cells either swell or shrink with weight gain or loss. When these fat cells are removed from the treated sites, they will not re-form. Individuals who gain weight after the procedure will however gain weight in an untreated area.
How Long Will I Be Wearing Bandages?
Gauze over the incision sites is generally only needed for one day. However, the compressive elastic garment is applied after surgery worn for approximately three weeks.
What Are The Complications?
Side effects of liposuction surgery include the small incision marks, bruising, and discomfort and soreness in the treated area. With all surgical procedures there is a risk for infection, however, all efforts are made to prevent this. Throughout Atlanta Medical Day Spa and Surgery Centers surgeries an infection has not occurred. All risks and complications will be thoroughly reviewed with each individual based on their medical history during the consultation with the Doctor.
I Am An Older Patient And Have Lost Some Of My Skin Elasticity. Will This Procedure Help Me?
Age is not a limitation on treatment with SmartLipo™. With age skin elasticity is lost therefore a very minimal amount of fat may be left in to prevent the skin from hanging down.
Just What Is Cellulite And How Is It Helped By Liposuction?
Cellulite fat cells differ little from fat cells elsewhere in the body, although there is evidence that their metabolism is different. Consequently, this fat is generally unresponsive to a weight loss program that includes diet and exercise. The affected areas can look worse after weight reduction than before. Liposuction does not remove the appearance of cellulite, but will reduce there appearance. SmartLipo™ technology is proven to create smoother results in the appearance of the skin.
Can A Procedure Be Repeated?
Yes, the patient’s satisfaction is the goal, however, their may be additional cost which could be discussed during the consultation.
When Can I Bathe?
Patients can shower the following day. However, it is recommended not to take a bath or be in a swimming pool/hot tub until the incision sites have completely closed to prevent infection.
Is Prolonged Sun Exposure Before And After Surgery Permitted?
Prolonged sun exposure is never recommended by Atlanta Medical Day Spa and Surgical Center. Prolonged sun exposure can put the individual at risk for developing skin cancer, sun damage to the skin, and increased aged appearance. A SPF is recommended to be worn daily. Any sunburn prior to surgery would make a patient extremely uncomfortable and may require the surgery to be rescheduled. After surgery, too much sun exposure may raise the body temperature and increase the possibility of swelling. Getting sunlight on scars during the first three months after surgery could cause permanent discoloration to them, making them visibly noticeable.
What About Drinking, Smoking, and Medicines?
Generally, a person may resume taking prescribed medications the same day of surgery. All alcohol is highly discouraged before and after the procedure. Certain wines will actually increase the risk of bruising. Smoking is not allowed for one week before and one week after surgery to allow proper healing of the tissues.
When Can I Return To Exercising?
Bed rest is recommended for the first 24 hours following the surgery. The next day light exercise may be resumed. Light exercise is good for the body, it will stretch out the muscles and decrease the length of time a patient feels sore. The patient may increase exercise as tolerated.
Must I Have Laboratory Tests, X-rays, Or A Physical Examination?
The patient's medical history will be reviewed during the consultation with the Doctor. A physical will also be performed to determine the overall health of each patient. Blood work will be drawn, unless the patient has had blood work in the last couple of months and can have it faxed to the office.
Are Pictures Taken Before And After Surgery?
Photographs are taken before and after every surgery. Each patient will sign consent of photographs release, either having the pictures used only in their chart for recording purposes or allowing Atlanta Medical Day Spa & Surgical Center to show future patients the pictures. If it is consented for the pictures to be shown to future patients all of HIPAA‘s laws will be upheld. The individuals name and identity will not be disclosed and identifiable features will be covered.
Do You Have EKG Monitors, Blood Pressure Monitors, And Pulse Monitors During The Operation?
Yes, and you are fully monitored during the entire procedure.
Do You Have An IV Running During The Operation?
No, however fluids are available for the patient if he/she requires additional support.
Other Services:
| Acne Treatment | Scar Treatment |
| Body Sculpting | Skin Resurfacing |
| Cellulite Treatment | Skin Tightening |
| Hair Removal | Vein Reduction |
| Photodynamic Therapy | Wrinkle Reduction |
Surgical Dermatology
- Moles
- Warts
- Skin Tags
- Actinic Keratosis
- Scar Revision
- Other minor in-office procedures
Cosmetic Surgery
- Face Lift
- Laser Lipolysis and Body Sculpting
- Forehead/Brow Lift
- Eyelid Surgery
- Nasal Aesthetic Surgery
- Facial Liposuction
- Otoplasty (ear surgery)
- Chin Surgery
- Facial Augmentation (implants)