As a leading NYC plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring, Dr. Smith uses the latest techniques to provide customized outcomes that accentuate each patient’s natural beauty.
AirSculpt is a commonly used marketing term in the liposuction and body contouring space, and this comprehensive guide is designed to provide a detailed overview of what AirSculpt entails, how it compares to other fat removal and skin tightening procedures, and important factors to consider when evaluating your body sculpting options.
What is AirSculpt and How Does it Work?
AirSculpt is a proprietary marketing term coined by the company Elite Body Sculpture to describe their specific approach to laser-assisted liposuction. This minimally invasive procedure combines traditional liposuction techniques with laser energy to remove unwanted fat and tighten the skin for improved body contours.
Liposuction itself does not inherently tighten loose or lax skin that often remains after fat removal. To address this, three main types of energy can be used in conjunction with liposuction to stimulate skin contraction and collagen production: laser, ultrasound, and radiofrequency.
Laser-assisted liposuction, like that used in AirSculpt, represents one of the earlier energy-based skin tightening modalities. In Dr. Smith’s extensive experience, laser energy tends to be less effective and precise compared to more advanced technologies like ultrasound energy (utilized in VASER liposuction) or radiofrequency energy (employed in BodyTite liposuction).
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the AirSculpt procedure works:
- A numbing solution is injected into the treatment area to maximize comfort.
- A tiny incision is made to allow insertion of the thin liposuction cannula, a hollow tube used to suction out the liquefied fat.
- The AirSculpt cannula, which is equivalent to a standard liposuction cannula, is moved back and forth in a controlled manner, utilizing suction to precisely remove the undesired fat cells from the targeted region.
- As the excess fat is suctioned out, the built-in laser fiber delivers energy directly to the underlying dermal structures, heating the tissue to stimulate collagen production and skin retraction.
- The ultimate goal of AirSculpt is to achieve permanent removal of stubborn fat deposits while attaining visibly smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin in the treated areas. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations, as individual results can vary.
The company behind AirSculpt, Elite Body Sculpture, promotes this procedure as superior to traditional liposuction. They claim it is minimally invasive while liposuction is more surgically invasive. In reality, AirSculpt is simply conventional liposuction combined with laser technology, which is an older modality for skin tightening.
Another assertion made by Elite Body Sculpture is that AirSculpt does not require general anesthesia, implying that liposuction always does.
The truth is, both laser lipolysis (AirSculpt) and traditional liposuction can be performed under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. The choice of anesthesia depends on factors like the size of the treatment area, the patient’s comfort level, and the surgeon’s recommendation for optimal results and safety.
Dr. Smith works with highly skilled, board-certified anesthesiologists to offer his NYC liposuction patients the full range of anesthesia options, including local anesthesia, IV sedation (twilight), and general anesthesia.
Providing general anesthesia requires advanced training, specialized equipment, and facility certification that goes beyond the requirements for local or IV sedation. It’s worth noting that AirSculpt providers do not offer general anesthesia, as they aim to perform the procedure while the patient is awake. In some cases, this may limit the extent of fat removal and skin tightening that can be comfortably achieved.
What Areas Can Be Treated with AirSculpt?
Similar to traditional liposuction techniques, AirSculpt can be used to target localized fat deposits and tighten mild skin laxity on virtually any area of the body, including:
- Abdomen and stomach
- Flanks, sides, and love handles
- Back, bra rolls, and upper back fat
- Upper arms and bat wings
- Inner thighs and outer thighs
- Buttocks and banana roll
- Male chest and gynecomastia
- Chin, neck, and jawline
- Knees and inner knee fat
One of the key advantages of AirSculpt and other liposuction techniques is their versatility and customization. The procedure can be tailored to address small, isolated fat pockets or larger areas for more comprehensive body reshaping.
The specific treatment plan, including the number of areas addressed in a single session, will depend on your unique goals, anatomy, and the surgeon’s assessment.
What Are the Benefits of AirSculpt?
Proponents of AirSculpt claim that it offers several advantages over traditional liposuction. Let’s take a closer look at these claims:
- Permanently eliminates fat cells from treated areas (true of all forms of liposuction).
- Stimulates neocollagenesis and tissue contraction for tighter, smoother skin (this effect is seen with any energy-assisted liposuction technique, including laser, ultrasound, and radiofrequency technologies).
- Delivers precise, targeted fat removal and sculpting for custom body contouring results (all liposuction methods allow for significant customization to achieve the desired aesthetic outcomes).
- Is minimally invasive with very small incisions (true of all forms of liposuction).
- Is safer than traditional liposuction (this claim is misleading; both conventional liposuction and laser-assisted AirSculpt are generally very safe procedures when performed by qualified plastic surgeons, but all surgeries carry some level of risk that should be discussed in detail during your consultation).
- Involves less downtime and recovery compared to regular liposuction (in reality, the healing process after laser lipo like AirSculpt is very similar to the downtime associated with other energy-assisted liposuction procedures).
- Achieves dramatic yet natural-looking results. (this depends more on the skill, experience, and artistic eye of the plastic surgeon than the specific technology used).
For the right candidates, AirSculpt can undoubtedly produce visible enhancements in body contours and moderate skin retraction. However, based on Dr. Smith’s vast liposuction experience, more advanced energy delivery systems like VASER (ultrasound) and BodyTite (radiofrequency) typically offer superior skin tightening and precision sculpting compared to laser-based AirSculpt.
How Long is Recovery After AirSculpt?
The recovery timeline following AirSculpt is quite similar to the healing process associated with other energy-assisted liposuction techniques. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect during your AirSculpt recovery:
- Immediately After: You will be able to walk and resume light daily activities right away. Some mild discomfort, swelling, and numbness in the treated areas are normal at this stage. Your plastic surgeon will provide a compression garment to minimize swelling and support the healing tissues.
- 1 Week Post-Op: By this point, the majority of the swelling should subside, and you will likely look close to your pre-procedure appearance. Bruising will be mostly resolved, and you may feel comfortable returning to work if your job doesn’t involve strenuous activity. Light exercise can usually be resumed.
- 2-4 Weeks Post-Op: Residual bruising should be fully healed, and a significant amount of the swelling will have dissipated, though some numbness or tingling sensations may persist. Most patients are cleared to resume more intense workouts. As the swelling continues to go down, your enhanced body contours will become increasingly visible.
- 6 Weeks Post-Op: The incision sites should be well healed and fading. With much of the swelling resolved, you will really start to appreciate your sculpted new shape.
- 3-6 Months Post-Op: Your final AirSculpt results will be apparent as any residual swelling subsides completely over the coming months. The skin tightening effect of the laser energy will continue to improve during this period, further refining your silhouette.
It’s crucial to follow your plastic surgeon’s personalized aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible aesthetic outcome. This may include wearing your compression garment as directed, avoiding certain activities or products, and attending all scheduled follow-up appointments.
Remember, while AirSculpt recovery is relatively quick, it’s essential to give your body adequate time to rest and heal.
How Much Does AirSculpt Cost?
The cost of AirSculpt, like any liposuction procedure, can vary significantly depending on several key factors, including the number and size of the treatment areas, the extent of fat removal and skin tightening desired, the geographic location of the practice, and the surgeon’s experience and reputation.
The following price ranges are general estimates based on available online research and may not reflect the actual costs quoted by Elite Body Sculpture or other AirSculpt providers:
- AirSculpt Abdomen: approximately 14,000
- AirSculpt Arms: approximately 10,000
- AirSculpt Inner Thighs: approximately 9,000
- AirSculpt Chin and Neck: approximately 12,000
Many patients opt to combine multiple treatment areas into a single AirSculpt session for more comprehensive body contouring. This approach can offer some cost savings compared to having each area treated separately.
After your consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon, you will receive a detailed quote based on your specific treatment plan and aesthetic goals.
What Is Airsculpt Laser Liposculpture?
- “AirSculpt” is a branded term used by the national chain of cosmetic surgery clinics, Elite Body Sculpture, to market their specific laser liposuction technique.
- “Liposculpture” is another name for liposuction, a surgical procedure that removes excess subcutaneous fat through small incisions using a hollow metal tube called a cannula.
- The liposuction process can be enhanced by integrating various energy-based technologies to simultaneously tighten the skin and facilitate fat extraction. The three most common energy modalities used in liposuction are laser (marketed as “AirSculpt” or “SmartLipo”), ultrasound (known as “VASER”), and radiofrequency (referred to as “BodyTite”).
- Despite marketing claims suggesting that AirSculpt is categorically different from liposuction, it is essentially a conventional suction-assisted lipectomy procedure combined with laser energy for modest skin tightening effects. The main differences promoted by Elite Body Sculpture are that AirSculpt is performed under local anesthesia while the patient is awake and uses a special tool called a “cannula” instead of a scalpel for less invasive fat removal.
- It’s important to note that the use of a cannula is standard practice in all liposuction techniques, not a unique feature of AirSculpt. The choice between local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia depends on multiple factors and should be determined in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon and anesthesiologist.
- While AirSculpt providers claim that their technique results in less bruising and faster recovery compared to traditional liposuction, there is no conclusive scientific evidence to support these assertions. Postoperative bruising, swelling, and discomfort can vary widely between patients and are more often influenced by individual healing characteristics and the surgeon’s skill than by the specific liposuction technology used.
AirSculpt vs. Traditional Liposuction
Both AirSculpt and traditional liposuction are surgical procedures designed to remove excess fat cells and improve body contours. However, there are some key differences to consider:
- Approach: AirSculpt combines laser energy for skin tightening with a specialized cannula for fat suctioning. Traditional liposuction focuses solely on fat removal without the addition of laser technology.
- Results: By incorporating laser energy to heat the dermis and stimulate collagen production, AirSculpt aims to provide both fat reduction and mild skin retraction for smoother, more refined results. Traditional liposuction effectively removes fat but does not address skin laxity, which may be a concern for some patients. Dr. Smith believes that VASER (ultrasound) and BodyTite (radiofrequency) technologies offer more consistent and significant skin tightening compared to the laser used in AirSculpt.
- Anesthesia: AirSculpt is typically performed under local anesthesia with the patient awake, as the laser energy provides an additional numbing effect. However, this may limit the number of areas that can be treated comfortably in a single session. Traditional liposuction can be done under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia, allowing for greater flexibility in the extent of treatment and patient comfort.
- Downtime: Advocates of AirSculpt claim that it involves less bruising, swelling, and recovery time compared to traditional liposuction. However, the actual healing process is quite similar to other energy-assisted liposuction methods like VASER.
- Cost: Due to the addition of laser technology for skin tightening, AirSculpt may carry a higher price tag than traditional liposuction alone. However, the overall cost is generally comparable to other energy-based liposuction procedures.
Ultimately, the choice between AirSculpt and traditional liposuction depends on your individual goals, anatomy, and preferences. While AirSculpt can provide some skin tightening benefits, Dr. Smith has found that more advanced energy delivery systems like VASER and BodyTite offer superior results in terms of skin retraction and sculpting precision.
Liposuction vs. Airsculpt vs. LaserLipo: What’s the Real Deal?
With the ever-expanding array of body contouring treatments available, it can be challenging to decipher the differences and determine the best approach for your needs. Dr. Smith offers his expert insight:
“Body contouring encompasses a wide range of surgical and non-surgical procedures designed to reshape and refine the body by strategically removing unwanted fat. The two primary categories are invasive and noninvasive treatments.
Invasive options, such as liposuction and tummy tucks, produce the most dramatic and long-lasting results but do require incisions and some scarring. A skilled, experienced plastic surgeon can minimize the appearance of scars and optimize the aesthetic outcome. Liposuction, in particular, can achieve significant fat reduction with very discreet scars. However, it may not fully address moderate to severe skin laxity.
For patients with mild to moderate skin looseness, liposuction can be combined with energy-based technologies to stimulate skin contraction and collagen remodeling. My preferred modalities are radiofrequency (BodyTite) and ultrasound (VASER) energy, as they have demonstrated more consistent and impressive skin tightening results compared to laser energy used in AirSculpt or SmartLipo.
Non-invasive treatments like CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo work by selectively damaging fat cells from outside the body, prompting the body to naturally eliminate them over time. While they involve no incisions or downtime, they generally offer less dramatic and precise results compared to surgical procedures.
Rather than getting caught up in marketing jargon and brand names, I encourage patients to focus on the underlying technologies, the experience and skill of the provider, and their own unique goals. The main considerations are: non-invasive fat reduction, surgical fat removal with liposuction, liposuction enhanced with energy-based skin tightening, and excisional procedures like tummy tucks for more extensive reshaping.”
Which is Better – AirSculpt or CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting and AirSculpt both reduce unwanted fat, but work differently:
- Method: CoolSculpting uses controlled cooling to freeze and kill fat cells without surgery. AirSculpt is surgical liposuction using laser energy for fat removal and skin tightening.
- Areas Treated: AirSculpt can target larger and smaller areas of the body more precisely. CoolSculpting works best for treating smaller, pinchable areas of fat.
- Results: AirSculpt removes more fat per treatment and tightens skin for contoured results. CoolSculpting results are typically more subtle requiring multiple treatments.
- Side Effects: AirSculpt has temporary side effects like swelling, bruising and soreness. CoolSculpting sometimes causes numbness or discomfort that resolves gradually.
- Sessions Required: AirSculpt can achieve the desired result in one session. CoolSculpting often requires multiple sessions spaced weeks apart for incremental fat reduction.
- Cost: AirSculpt has a higher single cost, while CoolSculpting costs add up over multiple required sessions.
For patients that prefer a non-surgical option, CoolSculpting can reduce fat without surgery using cryolipolysis technology. However, AirSculpt is the better choice for dramatic fat reduction and skin tightening between these options. For noninvasive body contouring, we prefer EmSculpt Neo.
Which is Better – AirSculpt or CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting and AirSculpt are both popular body contouring treatments that target unwanted fat, but they work through very different mechanisms:
- Method: CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that uses controlled cooling (cryolipolysis) to freeze and destroy fat cells without any incisions or surgery. AirSculpt, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that combines laser lipolysis and suction-assisted liposuction to remove fat and tighten skin.
- Areas Treated: One of the key advantages of AirSculpt is its versatility in treating both large and small areas of concern with a high degree of precision. CoolSculpting is best suited for reducing isolated pockets of pinchable fat in areas like the abdomen, flanks, thighs, and chin.
- Results: AirSculpt can remove a more significant volume of fat in a single session and provides mild skin tightening effects for more comprehensive body reshaping. CoolSculpting results tend to be more subtle, often requiring a series of treatments to achieve the desired fat reduction, and it does not address skin laxity.
- Side Effects: AirSculpt, like any surgical procedure, involves temporary side effects such as swelling, bruising, numbness, and soreness as the body heals. CoolSculpting is generally well-tolerated, but some patients may experience temporary numbness, tingling, or discomfort in the treated areas.
- Treatment Timeline: AirSculpt can often achieve the desired outcome in a single surgical session, while CoolSculpting typically requires multiple treatment sessions spaced several weeks apart to gradually reduce fat deposits.
- Cost: Due to its minimally invasive surgical nature and the addition of laser technology for skin tightening, AirSculpt generally has a higher per-treatment cost than CoolSculpting. However, when considering the number of CoolSculpting sessions needed to achieve comparable results, the total cost of treatment can be similar.
For patients who prioritize a non-surgical approach and are willing to accept more gradual, less extensive improvements, CoolSculpting can be a suitable option for targeted fat reduction. However, if your goals include more significant fat removal, mild skin tightening, and precise sculpting, AirSculpt or another energy-assisted liposuction technique may be a better choice. In Dr. Smith’s practice, EmSculpt Neo is the preferred non-invasive body contouring treatment due to its proven efficacy and safety profile.
What About AirSculpt vs. EmSculpt Neo?
EmSculpt Neo is an innovative non-invasive body shaping treatment that harnesses the power of high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to stimulate intense muscle contractions, paired with synchronized radiofrequency (RF) energy to selectively destroy fat cells and tighten skin.
When compared to AirSculpt, there are several notable differences:
- Mechanism of Action: EmSculpt Neo is entirely non-invasive, using externally applied HIFEM and RF energies to strengthen and tone muscles, reduce fat, and firm skin—all without incisions or anesthesia. AirSculpt is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that physically removes fat through liposuction while using laser energy for mild skin tightening.
- Results: AirSculpt primarily focuses on eliminating subcutaneous fat and providing modest skin retraction for a slimmer, smoother contour. EmSculpt Neo offers the unique benefit of muscle enhancement, building and defining underlying musculature for a more sculpted, athletic appearance. It also reduces fat deposits and tightens skin, but to a lesser degree than surgical procedures like AirSculpt.
- Treatment Areas: AirSculpt can be used to remove fat and tighten skin on virtually any area of the body where liposuction is typically performed. EmSculpt Neo is FDA-cleared for toning and strengthening the abs, buttocks, arms, and calves, and reducing fat in the abdomen, flanks, arms, and legs.
- Procedure Experience: AirSculpt involves small incisions, local anesthesia, and the surgical removal of fat using a cannula. EmSculpt Neo is completely non-invasive, with no anesthesia, incisions, or recovery time needed. Patients can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
- Treatment Series: AirSculpt is a one-time surgical procedure that can achieve the desired fat reduction and mild skin tightening in a single session. EmSculpt Neo typically requires a series of 4-6 treatments scheduled over a few weeks to achieve optimal muscle building, fat reduction, and skin firming effects.
While EmSculpt Neo can certainly help improve muscle definition, tone, and strength, as well as provide some fat reduction and skin tightening, it is not designed to remove large volumes of fat like AirSculpt or other liposuction techniques can.
For patients primarily concerned with reducing stubborn fat bulges and achieving a slimmer silhouette, AirSculpt remains the more effective option. The best approach depends on your specific goals, anatomy, and preferences, which should be discussed in detail during a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Why Does Airsculpt Cost More Than Traditional Lipo?
The cost of any liposuction procedure, including AirSculpt, can vary significantly based on a range of factors, such as the number and size of treatment areas, the volume of fat removed, the experience and reputation of the plastic surgeon, and the geographic location of the practice.
In general, if AirSculpt is priced higher than traditional liposuction, it is likely due to the addition of laser technology for skin tightening, which is not typically included in standard liposuction.
Laser Lipo vs Liposuction
As discussed earlier, laser liposuction techniques like AirSculpt and SmartLipo combine the fat removal capabilities of traditional suction-assisted liposuction with laser energy to provide mild skin tightening effects.
The laser helps to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen production and tissue contraction, which can result in smoother, firmer skin after healing.
Laser Lipo vs Cavitation
In the context of liposuction, cavitation refers to the rapid formation and collapse of microbubbles within the fat tissue, which is induced by the application of ultrasound energy. This process helps to gently break apart stubborn fat deposits and loosen them from the surrounding connective tissue matrix, making it easier to remove the fat with less physical force and trauma.
Dr. Smith prefers VASER-assisted liposuction, which harnesses the power of ultrasound cavitation, for most of his patients. The benefits of VASER include easier fat extraction, reduced blood loss and bruising, and a smoother, more rapid recovery process.
VASER is particularly advantageous for treating fibrous areas like the male chest (gynecomastia) and for revision liposuction cases.
Smart lipo vs Airsculpt
SmartLipo and AirSculpt are both marketing names for laser-assisted liposuction procedures. The main difference lies in the specific proprietary laser technology used and the fact that AirSculpt is exclusively offered by the national chain of cosmetic surgery clinics, Elite Body Sculpture.
While laser energy can contribute to mild skin tightening, Dr. Smith has found that radiofrequency-based technologies like BodyTite consistently deliver superior results in terms of skin retraction, tissue remodeling, and overall sculpting precision. RF energy penetrates deeper into the dermal layers, stimulating more robust collagen synthesis and skin contraction compared to laser treatments.
Airsculpt vs Coolsculpting
CoolSculpting is a completely non-invasive fat reduction treatment that relies on controlled cooling (cryolipolysis) to selectively damage and eliminate fat cells without any incisions or anesthesia.
AirSculpt, in contrast, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that physically removes fat via liposuction while using laser energy for mild skin tightening.
While CoolSculpting can be an appealing option for patients who prefer to avoid surgery, it typically requires multiple treatment sessions to achieve even modest fat reduction, and the results may not be as dramatic or precise as those obtained with liposuction techniques like AirSculpt.
Additionally, CoolSculpting does not address skin laxity and is not suitable for large volume fat removal. Dr. Smith generally recommends non-invasive fat reduction treatments only for patients who are unable or unwilling to undergo any type of surgery.
Airsculpt vs BodyTite
AirSculpt and BodyTite are both energy-assisted liposuction techniques that aim to remove excess fat while simultaneously tightening the skin. The key difference lies in the type of energy used: AirSculpt employs laser technology, which represents an older and less advanced approach to skin tightening, while BodyTite utilizes a state-of-the-art bipolar radiofrequency (RF) energy system.
In Dr. Smith’s extensive body contouring experience, the RF energy delivered by BodyTite consistently outperforms the laser technology used in AirSculpt in terms of skin retraction, tissue remodeling, and overall sculpting precision. RF energy penetrates deeper into the dermal layers, stimulating more robust collagen synthesis and skin contraction compared to laser treatments.
The before and after images below showcase the impressive results achieved with BodyTite RF-assisted liposuction for skin tightening and body contouring. The first patient underwent BodyTite treatment in combination with liposuction of the abdomen and direct excision of excess chest tissue.
The second patient had struggled with skin laxity on her thighs despite trying various non-invasive and minimally invasive treatments, and she was able to achieve her desired outcome with a single BodyTite session.
AirSculpt (Lipo + Laser) | BodyTite (Lipo + Bipolar RF) | ||
Pros | Cons | Pros | Cons |
-Removes unwanted fat and provides mild skin retraction -Widely available at many practices | -Utilizes older, less advanced laser technology for skin tightening -May be less effective than RF or ultrasound-based techniques for significant skin laxity -Some providers only offer the procedure under local anesthesia while awake, which can limit the treatment area and patient comfort | -Incorporates cutting-edge bipolar RF technology for optimal skin contraction and collagen remodeling -Can achieve more dramatic skin tightening and sculpting precision compared to laser-based methods -Procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia for maximum versatility and patient comfort | -Less widely available than laser liposuction, as it requires specialized equipment and advanced training |
AirSculpt vs Kybella
AirSculpt is a laser-assisted liposuction procedure that utilizes thermal energy to liquefy fat and stimulate mild skin retraction while physically removing the fat cells via a suction cannula.
Kybella, on the other hand, is a non-surgical injectable treatment that contains a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
When injected into the submental area (under the chin), Kybella causes the dissolution of fat cell membranes, leading to the gradual destruction and elimination of these cells.
While Kybella can be effective for reducing small to moderate amounts of excess fat under the chin, it does not have the same level of precision or the skin tightening benefits offered by energy-assisted liposuction techniques like AirSculpt.
Moreover, the fat reduction achieved with Kybella is less predictable and customizable compared to liposuction, as the injected solution can spread to adjacent areas and destroy fat cells indiscriminately.
This lack of control can potentially lead to contour irregularities or asymmetries in the treated area. Additionally, while Kybella is a non-surgical procedure, the injections can cause significant swelling, redness, and discomfort that may persist for several days to weeks, often exceeding the downtime associated with minimally invasive liposuction techniques.
Choosing the Right Option for You
With the wide array of body contouring treatments available, each with its own unique benefits and limitations, it can be challenging to determine the best approach for your specific needs and goals. This is where the expertise and guidance of a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Smith become invaluable.
During a personalized consultation, Dr. Smith will carefully assess your anatomy, listen to your concerns and desired outcomes, and draw upon his extensive experience to recommend the most suitable treatment plan.
While AirSculpt may provide satisfactory results for some patients, Dr. Smith generally prefers more advanced and effective energy-assisted liposuction techniques, such as BodyTite and VASER, which offer superior skin tightening, precision sculpting, and overall body contouring outcomes.
With his keen artistic eye, meticulous surgical skill, and commitment to utilizing the most cutting-edge technologies, Dr. Smith is dedicated to helping you achieve your ideal figure and enhance your self-confidence.
Whether you opt for AirSculpt, BodyTite, VASER, or another customized body contouring approach, you can trust that Dr. Smith will work tirelessly to deliver the exceptional, natural-looking results you deserve.
If you’re considering AirSculpt or any other body contouring procedure in the New York City area, we invite you to contact our practice today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Smith.
Together, you’ll explore the various options available and develop a personalized treatment strategy tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
FAQs About AirSculpt
What is AirSculpt?
AirSculpt® is a proprietary marketing term used by the national chain of cosmetic surgery clinics, Elite Body Sculpture, to describe their specific laser-assisted liposuction technique.
Introduced in 2012 by Dr. Aaron Rollins, AirSculpt combines traditional tumescent liposuction with laser energy to remove unwanted fat and mildly tighten the skin.
How is AirSculpt performed?
During an AirSculpt procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the treatment area and infiltrates a tumescent solution containing anesthetic and vasoconstrictive agents to minimize pain and bleeding.
A thin, hollow tube called a cannula is then inserted through the incisions, and the surgeon uses back-and-forth motions to suction out the liquefied fat while the laser energy heats the surrounding tissues to promote skin retraction.
What areas can be treated with AirSculpt?
AirSculpt can be used to remove excess fat deposits and tighten mildly lax skin on virtually any area of the body where liposuction is typically performed, including the abdomen, flanks, back, arms, thighs, buttocks, chest, chin, and knees.
Does AirSculpt require anesthesia?
AirSculpt is often marketed as a procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia while the patient is awake, as the laser energy provides an additional numbing effect. However, this approach may limit the size of the treatment area and the overall comfort of the patient.
Some AirSculpt providers do offer IV sedation or general anesthesia for more extensive procedures or at the patient’s request.
How long is recovery after AirSculpt?
Most patients experience mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days after AirSculpt, which gradually subsides over the course of 2-4 weeks.
The majority of the swelling typically resolves within 6 weeks, and final results become apparent after 3-6 months as the skin continues to contract and remodel.
Does AirSculpt produce permanent results?
Yes, the fat cells removed during an AirSculpt procedure are permanently eliminated from the body.
However, it is important to maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle habits to prevent the remaining fat cells from enlarging and compromising the results.
Is AirSculpt a safe procedure?
When performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon, AirSculpt is generally considered safe.
However, as with any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks, such as bleeding, infection, and contour irregularities, which should be thoroughly discussed with your surgeon prior to treatment.
How many AirSculpt treatments are required?
In most cases, AirSculpt can achieve the desired fat reduction and mild skin tightening results in a single treatment session.
However, some patients may require additional treatments to address multiple areas or to further refine the outcomes.
Does AirSculpt really work for firming loose skin?
While the laser energy used in AirSculpt can stimulate collagen production and mild skin retraction, it may not be as effective as more advanced technologies, such as radiofrequency (BodyTite) or ultrasound (VASER), for achieving significant skin tightening, especially in cases of moderate to severe skin laxity.
Can AirSculpt fix stretch marks?
AirSculpt is not designed to treat or eliminate stretch marks.
While the procedure may improve the overall appearance of the skin through mild tightening effects, it will not significantly reduce the appearance of existing stretch marks.
Is AirSculpt better than CoolSculpting?
AirSculpt can achieve more dramatic fat reduction results in a single treatment compared to CoolSculpting, which typically requires multiple sessions.
Additionally, AirSculpt offers the added benefit of mild skin tightening, whereas CoolSculpting does not address skin laxity. However, CoolSculpting may be preferred by patients who wish to avoid surgery and are willing to accept more gradual, modest results.
What’s better – traditional liposuction vs AirSculpt?
While traditional liposuction is highly effective at removing excess fat, it does not provide skin tightening benefits. AirSculpt incorporates laser energy to promote mild skin retraction, which can enhance the overall body contouring results.
However, more advanced energy-assisted liposuction techniques, such as BodyTite and VASER, may offer superior skin tightening and sculpting precision compared to AirSculpt.
Can AirSculpt treat the face and neck areas?
Yes, AirSculpt can be used to remove excess fat and tighten mildly lax skin on the face and neck, particularly in the submental (under the chin) area.
However, treating these delicate regions requires significant skill and experience to achieve natural-looking results and avoid complications.
What kind of results can I expect with AirSculpt?
Patients can expect to see a noticeable reduction in fat volume and a mild improvement in skin tightness in the treated areas after AirSculpt.
The results will continue to improve over the course of 3-6 months as the skin contracts and remodels.
However, individual outcomes may vary depending on factors such as age, skin quality, and the amount of fat removed.
How is AirSculpt different from liposuction?
AirSculpt is a specific type of laser-assisted liposuction that combines traditional fat suctioning with laser energy to promote mild skin tightening.
While both procedures remove excess fat, AirSculpt offers the additional benefit of skin retraction, which is not achieved with traditional liposuction alone.
Are there any side effects associated with AirSculpt?
Common side effects of AirSculpt include temporary swelling, bruising, numbness, and discomfort in the treated areas.
These typically resolve within a few weeks as the body heals. More serious complications, such as infection or contour irregularities, are rare but can occur.
Do I need to follow a special diet or exercise routine after AirSculpt?
While no specific diet or exercise regimen is required after AirSculpt, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular physical activity can help sustain the results and prevent future fat accumulation.
Your surgeon will provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and goals.
What is the cost for AirSculpt body contouring?
The cost of AirSculpt can vary widely depending on factors such as the number and size of the treatment areas, the geographic location of the practice, and the surgeon’s experience and qualifications.
On average, patients can expect to pay anywhere from $15,000 per treatment area, with some discounts potentially available for combining multiple areas in a single session.
At Darren Smith MD Plastic Surgery in NYC, Dr. Smith is committed to providing his patients with the most advanced, effective, and customized body contouring solutions.
With his artistic eye, technical precision, and dedication to achieving natural-looking results, Dr. Smith has helped countless patients in the New York City area achieve their ideal figure and boost their self-confidence.
If you are considering AirSculpt or any other body contouring procedure, we invite you to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Smith to discuss your goals, explore your options, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and desires.
Contact our NYC office today to take the first step toward achieving the body of your dreams.
When choosing a plastic surgeon for your AirSculpt or other body contouring procedure, it is essential to prioritize experience, expertise, and a proven track record of success. Dr. Darren Smith is a double board-certified plastic surgeon renowned for his meticulous technique, artistic eye, and commitment to delivering natural-looking results that enhance his patients’ unique beauty.
With his state-of-the-art practice located in the heart of New York City, Dr. Smith offers a comprehensive range of advanced body contouring solutions, including BodyTite, VASER, and EmSculpt Neo, in addition to traditional liposuction and AirSculpt.
His patient-centered approach, combined with his extensive training and experience, ensures that each individual receives personalized care and achieves optimal results.
During your initial consultation, Dr. Smith will take the time to listen to your concerns, assess your anatomy, and discuss your desired outcomes. He will then draw upon his expertise to recommend the most suitable treatment plan, whether that involves AirSculpt, BodyTite, VASER, or a combination of techniques, to help you achieve your goals safely and effectively.
At Darren Smith MD Plastic Surgery, we understand that undergoing a body contouring procedure is a significant decision that requires trust, comfort, and open communication between patient and surgeon.
Dr. Smith and his dedicated team are committed to providing exceptional care throughout your entire journey, from your initial consultation to your post-operative follow-up and beyond.
If you are ready to take the next step in achieving your ideal figure, we invite you to schedule your consultation with Dr. Darren Smith at his NYC practice.
Experience the difference that comes with entrusting your body contouring goals to a skilled, compassionate, and highly respected plastic surgeon.
Contact Darren Smith MD Plastic Surgery today to learn more about AirSculpt, BodyTite, VASER, and the many other cutting-edge body contouring options available. Your path to a more confident, sculpted you awaits.
