While it is not uncommon to develop pockets of fat around the abdomen, thighs and buttock areas during the middle years of life, it is certainly not a desirable occurrence for most people. Many will try to combat this "middle-aged spread" with exercise and diet, but sometimes those fat pockets are more stubborn than your best weight loss program. When diet and exercise don't do the trick, liposuction procedures may be the solution. While traditional forms of liposuction are much more invasive and require some recovery time, there are now options that are easier and more effective.

The All New Liposuction

Lasers are used to treat a whole host of medical issues today, from removing cancerous growths to getting rid of wrinkles. Now laser surgery has been introduced into the world of liposuction, with the all new Smart Lipo procedure. This process uses laser technology to penetrate the skin and dissolve the fat. The result is smoother, tighter skin with no more unsightly bulges in those difficult to tone areas.

Smart Lipo can be used on just about anyone who is in good health, enjoys an active lifestyle and has fat pockets that simply won't go away with diet and exercise. This process will not generally work on obese patients; doctors generally prefer that the person is within 25 pounds of her target weight in order to see the best results. The procedure is relatively pain free with little recovery time required afterward.

Where it's Used

There are many areas of the body that respond well to Smart Lipo, including the buttocks, hips, thighs, upper arms and waist. Other areas that can be treated with this procedure include the chin, face, back of neck and pubic mound. Some have even used this treatment option for male breast reduction. The precision of the laser beam allows a doctor to pinpoint the exact location of the fat deposit and dissolve it on contact with minimal bleeding or pain involved.

The majority of patients that have Smart Lipo done complain of minor problems after the procedure that might include some bruising and mild discomfort. Aching can be controlled with over the counter medications and bruising will go away with a few days. Most patients that have this procedure done will be back to normal activities within 24 hours. Initial results will be seen almost right away, but the full effect of the procedure may not be visible for six to eight weeks.

Risks and Concerns

Smart Lipo is not for everyone. Those with diabetes, liver or heart problems, kidney issues, blood disorders or skin conditions will probably not be good candidates for this procedure. As with any medical treatment, it is a good idea to talk to a doctor about the risks and benefits before agreeing to have the procedure done. This treatment is considered semi-permanent, since the results will fade if weight is put back on. The best option is to maintain a healthy lifestyle complete with diet and exercise that will make the results last.