Liposuction: Smartlipo^®, Safelipo^®, & More

Our liposuction techniques may be used to reduce localized fat deposits of the:

• Thighs
• Hips and buttocks
• Abdomen and waist
• Upper arms
• Back
• Inner knee
• Chest area
• Cheeks, chin, and neck
• Calves and ankles

Dr. Zannis has many years of experience performing three common variations to the standard liposuction procedure:

• The tumescent or super-wet technique requires an infusion of saline solution with epinephrine and anesthetic prior to the extraction of excess fat. This technique is performed under local anesthesia, minimizes blood loss, and can even reduce the likelihood of requiring a follow-up procedure.
• Laser-assisted lipoplasty. SmartLipo^® uses laser energy to liquefy excess fat, but more importantly, it helps tighten the skin by inducing new collagen formation. These laser lipolysis procedures often result in less swelling, bleeding, and bruising than are expected to occur with other liposuction techniques. This less-aggressive method of fat extraction also allows for faster recovery times, in most cases.
• The SAFELipo^® technique is a 3-step process of fat separation, aspiration, and equalization that combines the benefits of liposuction, fat shifting, and fat grafting. SAFELipo^® does not produce the same levels of heat that are associated with more traditional liposuction techniques, allowing us to avoid excessive cell death and localized inflammation. Special basket tips and fine cannulas are used to do most of the work. It is the final step of fat redistribution that fills in any irregularities and leaves the patient with a nice, smooth result.

The exact liposuction technique we choose to use is determined by each patient’s unique body composition, goals, and the specific areas where we plan to perform the procedure. If you’re wondering which technique is best for you, we’ll be happy to discuss all the best options during your consultation. We’ll evaluate your excess fat deposits, listen to your objectives for your fat-extraction surgery, and make the best recommendations based on our knowledge and experience. The expert team at the Zannis Center for Plastic Surgery will take excellent care of you from your first consultation through your procedure and then on to your fast recovery.

After a liposuction procedure, localized swelling should subside, bruising should fade, and initial results may appear within 2 to 4 weeks. Final results could take 2 to 6 months to appear fully, in some cases. Significant weight gain can cause the recurrence of the extracted fatty deposits, so it’s up to the patient to maintain their diet and fitness accordingly.

Ready for more information about our liposuction capabilities? Want to find out which liposuction procedure is right for you? Just contact us or call us at (252) 633-1197 today to talk to our expert team and schedule your personal liposuction consultation!