“SmartLipo vs. Traditional Liposuction” by Dr. Bergeron

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Liposuction, also known as “Lipo,” is a cosmetic surgery that removes fat from different areas of the body such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, and neck. Liposuction is a fairly new procedure, invented in the late 1960s by surgeons in Europe.

According to Wikipedia, the first introduction to modern Liposuction was in 1982, during a presentation by French surgeon, Dr. Yves-Gerard Illouz. The “Illouz Method” featured a technique of suction-assisted lipoplasty after infusing fluid into tissues. This was later called the tumescent technique. The technique of using only local anesthetic is credited to an American dermatologist, Dr. Jeffrey Klein.

Liposuction has evolved tremendously since the early 1980s as there are now a variety of liposuction options for patients to choose from. In 2006, Cynosure Corp. invented the first laser (click here to find how laser removes fat) for tumescent liposuction called “SmartLipo”. Today, the most prominent liposuction procedure apart from the traditional one is definitely SmartLipo.

Comparing Traditional Lipo and Smart Lipo

Both procedures allow surgeons to suction targeted fat, and provide dramatic results for areas that do not respond to diet and exercise. Both methods involve the use of tumescent fluid (medicated saline solution), and a hollow tube known as a “cannula” is used to suction fat out of the body.

However, SmartLipo is minimally invasive, performed using only local anesthetic, allowing for a faster recovery period. Most patients can return to normal activities within one or two days after their surgery. Traditional Liposuction uses general anesthesia, and recovery time can last several weeks.

The equipment used in SmartLipo is scaled down compared to traditional Liposuction. Most microcannula entry points will measure about the size of a pencil tip, so there’s virtually no scarring or pain.

Another benefit of the SmartLipo is skin tightening. This device not only liquefies fat for easy suctioning, but the laser also stimulates the dermis. This stimulation promotes new collagen growth, resulting in firmer, tighter skin.

Traditional Liposuction does not offer the same benefit of firmer, tighter skin. A common result of traditional Lipo is loose skin following the procedure, hence the increased popularity of SmartLipo.

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Dr. John Bergeron

Dr. John Bergeron was Valedictorian as a graduate of San Marcus Baptist Academy. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University and graduated from Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center located in Houston. Dr. Bergeron was one of the first doctors in the country trained in performing SmartLipo™. He is now one of the most experienced doctors performing this procedure, and with excellent results. More info at: http://www.houstonliposuction.com

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