Posted August 17, 2010 in Blog, Uncategorized, Zeltiq
At the recently completed “Controversies and Conversations in Laser and Cosmetic Surgery” held in Carlsbad, California two technologies were the hot topics of the meeting, no pun intended. Fractional CO2 lasers (Fraxel repair (Solta) and Total FX (Lumenis) were the most referenced lasers), and cryolipolysis (Zeltiq, the non-invasive cooling of fat to selectively cause fat cell death without damage to surrounding tissue types).
Richard Fitzpatrick, MD (Carlsbad) presented his results using the Zeltiq device. Zeltiq, developed at Mass. GeneralHospital by Rox Anderson, MD, appears to be a great procedure for spot reduction of small fat bulges localized in the abdomen and “love handles” that are resistant to exercise. The transducer is applied to the offending area; suction pulls the skin and fat into the transducer where the fat is chilled for about one hour without damaging the overlying skin.
Dr. Fitzpatrick stated that Zeltiq is virtually risk free without downtime, and that his patients are extremely happy. There have been no significant adverse events, but 50% of patients have significant bruising, some have a temporary alteration in skin sensation, and transient pain. Chris Zachary, MD (Irvine, CA) commented that there have been a few cases of severe pain, and that experts differ on whether it works in all cases. Like all technologies, proper patient selection as well as realistic expectations is essential.
Dr. Persky is currently looking into adding Zeltiq to his practice. Stay tuned, in the meantime keep working out and eating a healthy diet. Be well.
Dr Persky is located in Encino, California but services all of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. Including, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Malibu, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Calabasas, Woodland Hills, Tarzana and Agoura Hills and more.
