Surgical methods of fat removal, such as liposuction, have been around for decades. As with any surgical procedure, these methods often have associated risks. There is also post-surgical pain and an often lengthy recovery process to deal with regarding these techniques. However, new methods of removing pockets of fat from the body have been developed that do not require the use of surgery. These non-invasive methods work in different manners to help the body get rid of fat cells. What Is Fat Removal? Fat removal is a process by which a qualified doctor, typically a plastic or cosmetic surgeon, removes areas of fat from specific areas of a person's figure, resulting in a more shapely and contoured appearance. In the past, the most common and effective method was liposuction, a surgical procedure where a tube is placed under the skin to scrape loose then suction fat cells away. More recent developments offer non-invasive fat removal methods using methods such as cryolipolysis, ultrasound, low level lasers, and radio waves to break down fat cells and allow them to be removed naturally by the body. Two methods, cryolipolysis and ultrasound, are approved for use in the United States. What Is Cryolipolysis? Fat cells are much more sensitive to exposure to cold than other cells in the body, including skin cells, causing them to freeze more quickly. Cryolipolysis uses a machine that gently suctions up a targeted area of fat and uses very cold temperatures to freeze fat cells. Once frozen, the fat cells slowly die then are metabolized by the body. Patients can experience up to 25 percent fat loss from this procedure. What Is Ultrasound Fat Removal? Ultrasound uses sound waves to break apart fat cells which are then able to be reabsorbed and eliminated by the body. As with freezing, ultrasound treatments can eliminate up to 25 percent of body fat. Other Methods Other methods currently being studied for use in the United States involve the use of lasers and radio waves to liquefy fat inside of cells which then seeps out to be metabolized by the body. Benefits of Non Surgical Fat Removal versus Liposuction Unlike liposuction, there is no need for general anesthesia and no cutting of the skin is necessary. With non-invasive fat removal treatments, there is little to no downtime as activities may be resumed immediately. There is little to no pain after the procedure and no visible bruising of the skin. And unlike liposuction, there is less risk of dropping and sagging skin areas left behind as a result of the procedure. Drawbacks of Non-Surgical Methods of Fat Removal It can take up to several months for results to be noticed and measurable when using non-invasive techniques. It is typically necessary to receive several treatments for these methods to be effective. Non-invasive fat removal methods are only effective on subcutaneous skin that is directly beneath the surface of the skin, and not for deeper visceral fat. Candidates for Non-Surgical Fat Removal Those who wish to try one of these methods should already eat a healthy and balanced diet, engage in a consistent exercise regime, and be close to their ideal body weight. These methods of fat removal are intended to contour small troublesome spots and not to be used as a method of weight loss. Peter Wendt is a researcher and writer that specializes in health and beauty topics. His wife was interested in trying out some non surgical fat removal procedures, so Peter contacted Gayoso Plastic Surgery to find out more information.
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fat removal, Cryolipolysis, Non Surgical Fat Removal, Liposuction,
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