SmartLipo has been receiving a lot of attention recently. It seems so simple to go and have three pounds removed from your waist over your lunch hour. But is it really safe?

Although it was approved by the FDA a few months ago the verdict is still out as to the overall risks associated with this procedure.

Here's one doctor's statement at the Annual Meeting of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery that's taking place this week in New York.

alarm bells rang for many experts when discussing this procedure based on the recent publication of data showing that this procedure was no better than traditional liposuction, and that it may present some risks to the liver and kidneys due to the way it releases free fatty acids when destroying the fat cells.

"We need to sit back and evaluate new technology as scientists before we can recommend it to patients. We now have a well-designed trial demonstrating that SmartLipo(TM) does not have any significant advantages over standard liposuction, that it may increase operative time, and that it's more costly. The study also raises the very serious concern that the effect of the laser emitted by the SmartLipo(TM) device releases free fatty acids that could be dangerous for our patients."