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PLASTIC SURGERY - MAY 2012

Q. I am looking for a way to slimdown without the downtime. Can you help?

As technology advances, the use of lasers has infiltrated the plastic surgery profession. Lasers are being used during liposuction to make the procedure less invasive. One of the most popular types of laser-assisted liposuction is SmartLipo, a state-of-the-art system available at The John Bull Center.
SmartLipo is safe, minimally invasive and requires less down time than traditional liposuction. The best SmartLipo candidates are generally in good shape but have trouble toning one or more particular areas of the body with diet and exercise. It’s important to understand that SmartLipo is not a weight loss procedure. It will not remove large amounts of fat; rather, it is used to improve the appearance of localized fat deposits on the face and body.
SmartLipo is often used on the face, arms, neck, thighs, knees, back rolls or excessively large male breasts.
During a SmartLipo treatment, a high-powered laser is directed at the fat deposits. The laser emits bursts of energy that heat the subcutaneous fat cells until they rupture. The oily liquid is then drained from the body through small incisions. Even though SmartLipo heats up the deep tissue of the body, it does not overheat the skin or cause burns. The heat from the laser also has a tissue-tightening effect, so it’s great to use on areas of loose or saggy skin.
SmartLipo treatment does not necessitate the use of general anesthesia like conventional liposuction does. This is advantageous because it reduces the anesthesia-related side effects that may occur, and makes the procedure safer. SmartLipo is usually performed using local anesthesia.

ask an expert Dr. W. John Bull, Jr. is double board certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery, and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Bull’s Naperville practice, DuPage Plastic Surgery, specializes in both non-surgical and surgical treatment of the face, breast and body. Call (630) 717-6000, or email us at contact@dupageplastics.com, dupageplastics.com.