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Posts Tagged ‘cryolipolysis’

Zeltiq in Marie Claire June 2010 Issue! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Sunday, May 23rd, 2010

Check out the June 2010 issue of Marie Claire magazine, where a writer undergoes the Zeltiq procedure and takes us through her personal experience from beginning to end.  We are delighted that her treatment delivered the same exciting results we have seen in our practice.  The Zeltiq uses cold temperature technology (cryolipolysis) to freeze and reduce fat cells in small, targeted areas around the waist and abdomen.  Maximum results are generally seen approximately 2 to 4 months after the treatment.  There is minimal (if any) downtime, minimal discomfort and the treatment only takes about an hour per section.  When the Zeltiq device first came to our office nearly 6 months ago, the staff jostled as to who would be first in line to try it out!  Since that time, we have all seen noticeable results with our own treatments and with that of our patients.  Call our office for more details and to try out one of the most exciting procedures of 2010.

 

The Latest on Cellulite: Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Wednesday, April 21st, 2010

No matter how advanced technology becomes with lasers, ultrasound, radio frequency or infrared heat techniques, a truly effective, long lasting treatment for cellulite remains elusive.  Why is cellulite such a difficult problem to treat?  Well, let’s start with exactly what that cottage cheese-like appearance is all about.

Cellulite is an architectural issue between connective tissue of the skin and fatty tissue.  The skin is connected to underlying muscle by fibrous connective cords.  Fat lies between these structures.  The fat pushes out against the skin, while the cords pull down, creating a dimpling effect on the surface.  The number, orientation and way these connective cords are organized in the tissue affects the amount and severity of cellulite a person may have.  Even though it is a common problem, It is a complex one, which is why there is no easy solution.

Cellulite is typically seen in the thighs, hips and buttocks of most women and may be genetically linked.  Excessive weight can make cellulite more noticeable, but it can be seen in lean body types as well.  It can also worsen with age as the skin loses elasticity.

You’ve probably seen countless ads with promises to eliminate cellulite.  The truth is that no single treatment is completely effective.  Topical creams, massage therapy and body wraps only provide a temporary effect on the appearance of cellulite at best, if they even do anything at all.  Of all the topical treatments, studies did show that topically applied retinol over a period of 6 months improved the appearance of cellulite because it helped stimulate collagen production and strength in the skin.  Mesotherapy, a technique that uses the injection of various substances into the fatty tissue to dissolve it, remains largely unstudied and can have unpredictable outcomes or only temporary improvement.  More invasive procedures, such as liposuction, can remove fat in the deeper layers, but its effect on superficial fat mostly seen in cellulite can be disappointing.  Laser assisted liposuction may be helpful for very small localized surface areas, but also requires more study.  Devices that combine radio frequency, infrared heat and suction with massage have gained popularity, but results on their effectiveness are often mixed and they typically require on-going treatments.

A new concept that may have future application for cellulite reduction is cryolysis.  There is evidence that fatty tissue is sensitive to cold temperature injury.  Currently, this concept is used in the Zeltiq procedure (cryolipolysis), which reduces small pockets of fat in the waist and love-handle areas of the body.  We have seen amazing results with the Zeltiq for this indication and I look forward to more research on cryolysis for the improvement of cellulite as well.  Trust me, as soon as there is a safe, non-invasive device that truly improves cellulite, we will offer it!!

 

Introducing Zeltiq - Targeteted Fat Reduction that Works is Finally Here! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Thursday, October 29th, 2009

If you have been a patient of mine for any length of time interested in reducing areas of fat on the body, you know that I have not been excited or impressed with any of the non-surgical options currently available.  I have long held out for a treatment that would be safe and truly provide results, which is why I am so excited to announce that the Zeltiq procedure is finally here!!

The Zeltiq procedure is the new “cool” way to gently reduce fat in targeted areas of the body.  Known also as cryolipolysis, this non-invasive procedure results in noticeable, natural looking fat reduction in specific areas without the need for needles, incisions, anesthesia or pain medication.  Best of all, you can resume your normal activities immediately following treatment.

The Zeltiq procedure is unique because it uses an advanced tissue cooling technology to eliminate fat cells without damaging the skin.  The specially designed applicator cup uses a gentle vacuum pressure to draw targeted skin tissue between two cooling panels. When the fat cells are exposed to the controlled cooling, they begin a process of natural elimination and are gradually removed through the body’s normal metabolic process over time.

Ideal candidates for Zeltiq are relatively fit, but have some modest-size fat bulges that are resistant to diet and exercise. They are seeking spot reduction for specific areas of fat, but are not considering a surgical procedure.

Clinical studies validate that cryolipolysis for fat layer reduction is well-tolerated and produces a visible contour change in the majority of patients.  Based on ultrasound assessment, an average fat layer reduction of 22.4% was demonstrated after only one Zeltiq procedure.  Results are seen in most people between two to four months following treatment.

The cost to treat one area will be $1000, however, we are so excited by the Zeltiq that we are offering an introductory discount of 50% for procedures booked within the next three months!

For a consultation on what to expect with your specific treatment, to learn more and to take advantage of this special, please contact our office at 415-292-6350.

 

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