In the Laser Assisted Smartlipo Facelift, the Smartlipo Multiplex Laser (MPX) is used in tandem with traditional facelifting techniques. The Smartlipo Multiplex (MPX) is the latest generation of smart lasers developed for fat lipolysis and removal.  The Smartlipo Multiplex (MPX) laser also has other features which makes it an ideal tool to assist with face and neck sculpting and facelifting.

How does the Smartlipo laser work in conjunction with a facelift?

The Smartlipo Multiplex laser energy is delivered through a very small gauge fiber which can be used like a scalpel. A tiny incision is made and the Smartlipo laser fiber is moved back and forth underneath the skin. The heat of the laser separates the skin from the underlying tissues and seals blood vessels along its path resulting in less swelling, bleeding, and bruising. Typically the folds between the nose and upper lip, the jowls, and the area around the two corners of the mouth are difficult areas to reach with traditional facelifting because of the risks of bleeding. This is not the case with the Laser Assisted Smartlipo facelift, the risks of bleeding are much reduced with the use of this device.

After the laser has created a bloodless dissection plane, a standard facelift incision is made in front of and behind the ear. The incision is made in such a way as to leave an inconspicuous scar. With the use of the laser, the skin flap is more easily elevated. The facial muscles and fatty tissue layers are tightened while the excess skin is repositioned and removed. In patients with round, full faces and necks which typically have more fatty tissue under the skin, the Smartlipo Multiplex (MPX) can be used in lipolysis mode to provide additional sculpting in these areas.
 

By heating the lower layers of the skin, this remarkable Smartlipo laser system causes tissue contraction and tightening. This is an additional benefit of using of the Smartlipo Multiplex (MPX) with face and neck lifting. On occasion, a smaller facelift incision is all that is necessary to achieve the desired result because of the tissue tightening effect of this laser. A smaller incision translates into less risk of scarring and a quicker recovery period. The laser's thermal tightening effect is also helpful in patients with thin skin and patients who have had a prior facelift procedure. These patients are sometimes more difficult to manage using a non-laser facelift technique.  
 

How long is the recovery?

Laser assisted Smartlipo facelifting is a new and innovative approach to facelift surgery. Patients experience less swelling, bleeding, and bruising, resulting in a smoother and quicker recovery. Most patients can even return to normal activities and work within 10 days of the procedure.

What are the risks of the Laser Assisted Smartlipo Facelift? 
The same risks and possible complications that accompany a standard facelift procedure can also occur with a Laser Assisted Smartlipo Facelift. In addition, the laser can overheat resulting in a burn injury. Most burns, if they should occur, are minor and heal without consequence.
 

How do I choose my surgeon?

No matter what type of cosmetic surgery or aesthetic procedure you are considering, your most crucial decision will be your choice of physician.  Make sure your physician is board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Look for a surgeon who specializes specifically in facial procedures. If you elect to have a surgical procedure, make sure the procedure will be done in an accredited facility. Ask how often your surgeon performs the procedure in question. The more you know about your surgeon and the procedure, the more likely you will be pleased with the outcome.