SmartLipo Risks and Complications

Serving Newport Beach and Orange County, California

SmartLipo is an effective technique for eliminating localized areas of stubborn fat in a minimally invasive manner. SmartLipo works by targeting and disintegrating your fat cell membranes into water and protein with a fiber-optic cannula. Now in a mucus-like, your broken-down fat cells are processed by your body and then naturally excreted. The innovative fiber-optic cannula creates a smaller hole than in traditional liposuction, resulting in minimal post-operative bleeding and bruising.

At the Pacifica Cosmetic Surgery Center, we care about your appearance and your satisfaction. We are dedicated to helping you achieve a youthful, vibrant appearance.

SmartLipo Risks and Complications

SmartLipo is a safer procedure than traditional liposuction because of the reduced amount of bleeding and anesthetic drugs that must be used. The procedure is also minimally invasive, allowing patients to return to work and resume their routine tasks almost immediately.

During the SmartLipo procedure, a local anesthetic is used so you will feel little if any pain. The local anesthetic also eliminates any risks and complications associated with general anesthesia. The incisions are small, which reduces the risk of infection and the size and appearance of permanent scars. When the anesthesia wears off, you may experience aches and pains that similar to the feeling after a long workout.

The most significant complication associated with SmartLipo is skin puckering or sagging. Other potential complications include:

  • Skin dimpling and/or lumpiness
  • Numbness in and around the treated area
  • Permanent scarring
  • Burns from the laser heat

As with any surgery, it is important that you follow all the pre- and post-operative instructions to minimize any potential risks and side effects.

Long-Term Results

The best outcomes occur in areas that are resistant to diet and exercise. After the subcutaneous fats are removed a given area, your remaining tissue will heal and may appear larger. In about three months, your resulting tissues will be fully reconstructed and you will be able to see the outcome of your SmartLipo treatment. If you wish to have further liposuction, you can do so about four months after your first procedure.

If you are a resident of Orange County or Newport Beach, California and are interested in learning more about SmartLipo, please contact our office to arrange a consultation with California cosmetic surgeon, Douglas Hendricks, M.D.