There are several non-surgical fat reduction treatments available, including:
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Cryolipolysis or CoolSculpting: This is a minimally invasive technology that relies on extreme cold to break down fat cells, reducing fat pockets. The device is placed on top of the skin around the area to be treated, and the temperature is lowered enough to freeze the fat cells and destroy them. The muscle, skin, and nerve tissue cells remain unharmed as they freeze at lower temperatures than fat cells do. This procedure is FDA-approved and safe for the hips, abdomen, inner and outer thighs, the underarms, the chin, and under the buttocks. It is ideal for patients who want to reduce fat bulges without reshaping their bodies. It can potentially reduce fat by up to 25% per treatment.
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Laser fat reduction: This works by dismantling subcutaneous fat using controlled heat. A specific laser wavelength is delivered through the skin, heating fatty tissues to the point where fat cells begin to break down. A constant cooling mechanism ensures that skin is not damaged in the process. SculpSure is the brand name of this non-invasive laser technology. It is FDA-cleared for abdomen and flanks and can be used on other areas.
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Ultrasound fat reduction: This uses highly focused sonic waves to break down fat cell walls in the treatment area, thereby releasing the fat inside to be metabolized by the body and reducing the size of a fat deposit. The ultrasound energy transmits through the skin, creating rapid pressure changes that cause the fat cells to break down while leaving surrounding tissues unharmed. FDA-cleared ultrasound fat reduction treatments include UltraShape, which uses a pulsed ultrasound technology, and Liposonix, which uses a high-intensity focused ultrasound. Treatments are intended for use on the abdomen and flanks. Ultrasound is noninvasive, and no downtime is needed. A typical patient requires 1 to 3 treatments spaced 2 weeks apart, depending on treatment. Results appear gradually and are typically.
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Red Light Therapy: This is among the newest technologies cleared by the FDA for nonsurgical fat reduction. The procedure requires a specialized lamp that sends light of specific wavelengths through the skin. .
It is important to note that some of these treatments may have side effects, and it is essential to consult with a qualified medical professional before undergoing any fat reduction treatment. Additionally, natural bioactive compounds have been shown to reduce fat accumulation and modulate gene expression in the adipose tissue of obese rats fed a cafeteria diet.
