Sort By Category:
Ask A Question:
Smart Lipo
J.J. - I am very physically active but have some stubborn spots. I am considering Smart Lipo but am concerned about downtime in my training routine. What is the expected length of time after the procedure before I will return to a 3 mile run?
Dr. Pratt - "First of all, you are an ideal candidate for liposuction....someone who takes care of themselves, exercises, eats well, but with a predisposition for focal fat deposits.
In terms of recovery, every patient is different. I have seen a lot of variability in recovery for patients of the same size. Some people are just more fragile in a sense and take longer, and these are often the same patients who are bruisers. Recovery is also predicated on the size of the liposuction area. The larger the volume removed, the longer the recovery. If your stubborn spots are small, then the recovery will be shorter. That being said, running is a rather jarring activity and I generally don't recommend it during the first few weeks. It will only prolong your recovery. I would substitute an elliptical or treadmill.
The laser used in SmartLipo does make the recovery relatively more benign overall in comparison to traditional liposuction that I used during residency. People were sore and black and blue for weeks to months which is not the case with Smartlipo.
I have worked on runners in the recent past. One of my male patients felt so good during that first week that he went on a 5 mile run. He was surprised to find that he had aggravated his swelling. It did not harm his final outcome but only lengthened the healing process a little. I would suggest waiting 2-3 weeks before pounding the pavement. Since the compression garments are used for about 4-6 weeks, I counsel my runners to wear it while running. That will help."
