Westford firm offers "laser body sculpting"
A Cynosure Smartlipo unit
If dieting doesn't work, there's a new option - laser body sculpting for zapping unsightly blubber.
Cynosure Inc. of Westford today introduced Smartlipo, a laser lipolysis system that doctors can use in what the company calls a "LaserBodySculpting" procedure to remove unwanted fat.
Because it uses lasers, Smartlipo has several advantages over conventional liposuction, the company claims; Smartlipo is minimally invasive, and it can be used more easily to remove small deposits of fat in such areas as the neck.
What's more, most Smarlipo procedures can be performed with local or no anesthesia, and partly for that reason, recovery time is fast for an out-patient procedure that is performed in a doctor's office, Cynosure said.
According to Cynosure, Smartlipo LaserBodySculpting is performed by inserting a small metal tube, which contains a laser wire, and placing it under the skin in direct contact with the treatment area; the laser's energy causes fat cells to rupture and drain away while promoting collagen shrinkage and causing a tissue tightening effect.
How much for a Smartlipo removal of love handles? Prices will be set by doctors, but a company spokeswoman estimated the likely cost at between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on how much fat has to be removed.
The spokeswoman said the Smartlipo received approval from the Food and Drug Administration in November.
In late morning trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market, Cynosure shares were down 30 cents to $19.15.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)
