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Procedures at M Khan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery


Liposonix


LipoSonix is a rather new FDA approved Ultrasound based device that helps to destroy the fat cells 1-2 cm under the surface of the skin. LipoSonix gets rid of these fat cells without surgery and with minimal side effects or downtime. Liposonix is NOT a substitution for Liposuction. It must be understood that neither Liposuction nor Liposonix are treatment for weight loss or obesity. If you weight within 20 lbs of your ideal body weight and are interested in body contouring with either Liposuction or Liposonix, schedule your appointment with Dr Khan to determine which procedure is right for you.

How does LipoSonix work?

LipoSonix uses a special technology called High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) to cause the death of fat cells safely and effectively. Focusing the ultrasound energy of LipoSonix at 1-2 cm below the surface of the skin avoids any burns or trauma to the skin and makes the treatment more comfortable. The fat cells are disrupted by the HIFU and can result in an average 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches) reduction in waist size for a one hour treatment.

What happens to the fat after LipoSonix treatment?

The disrupted fat cells attract the body’s inflammatory and healing responses. Special cells called macrophages engulf the fat and cellular debris. The macrophages then transport the fat through the lymphatic and venous system eventually to the liver. This process takes 2-4 weeks, so there are no changes in fat, triglyceride or any other body chemistries. The liver treats the fat from the macrophages just like fat you have eaten. The liver takes the fat and metabolizes it normally. Studies have not shown an increase in other body measurements after the use of LipoSonix. This means there is no measurable redistribution of the fat. We know it can’t go back to the treatment area because those cells no longer exist.

Who is a good candidate for LipoSonix treatment?

LipoSonix is best for certain types of patients. Both women and men can be candidates. You should be able to pinch at least an inch of fat in your area of concern. A layer of fat less than an inch probably does not require treatment. You should also be fairly close to your ideal body weight. Persons with Body Mass Index (BMI) between15-20 may be better candidates. If your BMI is greater than 20, you will probably do better with liposuction than with LipoSonix. Currently LipoSonix has been approved for use on the abdomen and love handles. Some patients may be appropriate for other body areas.

What kind of results can I expect after LipoSonix treatment?

LipoSonix permanently disrupts the fat cells in the treatment area. One treatment is recommended in the area. A treatment takes about an hour. The current studies showed an average decrease in waist size upto 4.6 cm or 1.8 inches after 3 months. This is essentially one pant size. These results are from the first generation LipoSonix machine. Innovations Medical has the second generation LipoSonix machine. Clinical studies for the second generation LipoSonix machine are currently underway. The early reports are showing the same or better overall reduction using the second generation LipoSonix machine. Although some results from LipoSonix are often seen in 1-2 weeks, it often takes 3-6 month for the final results to be realized.

What are the side effects of LipoSonix?

LipoSonix has only minor side effects including, pain, discomfort, redness in the treated area that can last for a few hours, minor bruising that can last 7-10 days and mild soreness that subsides in 1-2 weeks. Since each person has a different pain tolerance, medications are available for anxiety or pain control. We recommend most patients take the medications about 30 minutes before starting the procedure. If you do take medications, you will require someone to drive you home and stay with you overnight. We can provide taxi service if requested, but someone should be present to meet the taxi at your destination. Compression garments or “Spanx” help reduce the swelling and often make the first day or two more comfortable. We recommend most patients wear compression garments for the first 2-3 days after the LipoSonix procedure. Arnica supplements taken for 3 days prior to LipoSonix treatments and continued for 2 days after LipoSonix may help reduce the bruising and swelling.

Will LipoSonix help me lose weight?

LipoSonix is NOT a weight loss procedure. LipoSonix permanently disrupts fat cells but does not destroy or eliminate fat. You cannot use LipoSonix for weight loss, only inches loss.