Also known as non-invasive body contouring
Nonsurgical fat reduction is a procedure that uses specialized equipment to create a controlled injury to small volumes of fat. Currently, there are two types of devices used for nonsurgical fat removal: ultrasound and cold energy or cryolipolysis. Both allow outpatient treatment resulting in efficient and consistent fat reduction as well as enhanced body contour.
These are the top three pros and cons to weigh when considering nonsurgical fat reduction. If you want to focus on those specifically unique to you, please consult with your aesthetic plastic surgeon.
Are you a good candidate for nonsurgical fat reduction?
Following are some common reasons why you may want to consider nonsurgical fat reduction:
It is important to note that nonsurgical fat reduction is not a weight loss treatment. This non-invasive procedure is best suited for treating very limited volumes of fat of the abdomen, flanks, back and thighs. Because larger volumes of fat require multiple nonsurgical treatments, liposuction is probably a better option for larger fat accumulations.
If you are in good general health and have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you are most likely a good candidate for this procedure.
Depending upon your needs, your surgeon may recommend one of the following body contouring procedures:
Ultrasound
Cryolipolysis (also known as “fat freezing”)
There are currently two types of devices used for nonsurgical fat removal: ultrasound and cold energy or cryolipolysis. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will determine what is best for you based on his or her experience, your body type and your cosmetic goals.
Ultrasound
Think about ultrasound energy like sunlight. A magnifying glass can focus sunlight to ignite paper. Above and below the point of focus, paper does not burn. In a similar manner, by focusing ultrasound energy, only fat near the focus point is injured. Your skin (above the focus point) and tissue (below the focus point) are protected. Your body then slowly absorbs the damaged fat. One or more treatments may be needed.
Cryolipolysis
This treatment disrupts fat using a form of controlled frostbite. Research has shown that during frostbite fat cells freeze before skin freezes. Cryolipolysis works in the same way, freezing fat but not your skin. The “frozen fat” dies and is absorbed by your body over time. One or more treatments may be needed depending upon the amount of fat to be eliminated.
Patient alert: Injection Lipolysis (also known as mesotherapy)
Currently the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery does not endorse these injections as practiced in mesotherapy/lipodissolve treatments because there is not yet sufficient proof of their safety and efficacy. Do not to seek treatment from individuals who are unlicensed and unqualified. Fortunately, there are now a number of other non-invasive treatments that have met the standards for safety and effectiveness.
Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon if you are considering a nonsurgical fat reduction procedure.
What are the brand names for nonsurgical fat reduction?
Your surgeon may use one or a combination of the following devices, depending on your skin type, the amount of fat being treated, the size and location of the area being treated and the treatment timing:
Ultrasound
Cryolipolysis
Your surgeon will provide you with pretreatment instructions and answer any questions that you may have.
In advance of your procedure, your surgeon will ask you to:
Nonsurgical fat reduction is usually performed on an outpatient basis. It is usually not necessary for someone to drive you home after treatment and stay with you, but you should ask your surgeon.
What can I expect on the day of nonsurgical fat reduction treatment?
Nonsurgical fat reduction is performed on an outpatient basis. Most nonsurgical fat reduction sessions take less than an hour to complete but may take up to several hours depending on the number of areas treated.
Nonsurgical fat reduction usually requires little, if any, recovery. For most patients, the procedure is painless and full activity may be resumed immediately. After the procedure, you will receive detailed instructions about your post-treatment care, including information about:
Immediately after your nonsurgical fat reduction
You may notice temporary skin redness, swelling of the treated area and numbness of the area, but these side-effects usually resolve quickly. Some patients (especially those with larger treatment areas) may benefit from oral pain medication. It is important that you follow all patient care instructions provided by your surgeon.
Recovery time frame after nonsurgical fat reduction
You will be able to return to work and resume normal activity right away. You’ll see noticeable fat reduction in the treated areas within one to two months following the procedure.
The results are permanent, because the adult body does not produce new fat cells. When you gain weight, your existing fat cells expand. Once fat cells are destroyed and removed from the body, you will not gain weight in the treated areas.
Maintain a relationship with your aesthetic plastic surgeon
For safety, as well as the most beautiful and healthy outcome, it’s important to return to your plastic surgeon’s office for follow-up evaluation at prescribed times and whenever you notice any changes in the treatment areas. Do not hesitate to contact your surgeon when you have any questions or concerns.
Fortunately, significant complications from nonsurgical fat reduction are infrequent. Your specific risks for nonsurgical fat reduction will be discussed during your consultation.
All procedures have some degree of risk. Risks specific to nonsurgical fat reduction include:
You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your board-certified plastic surgeon, both before and after your nonsurgical fat reduction treatment.
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