Body Contouring Primer by Linda Sechrist
T
he ability to gently melt away body fat lies largely in the hands of a physician certified to perform Food and Drug Administration-approved, non-invasive treat- ments. Here are three of the most common. Zerona. Developed by Santa Barbara Medical In- novations (SBMI), this cool laser technology targets the fat in isolated trouble spots, such as love handles and belly bulges. According to the company, Zerona targets adipose (fat) cells with specific, low-level wavelengths of light, causing the fat to seep out of the cells. The deflated cells result in a smaller, tighter contour. SBMI’s studies show that the fat is safely absorbed into the body’s lymphatic system and eventually metabolized by the liver. Zeltiq Coolsculpting. Used in Europe and Canada before coming to the United States, this FDA-ap-
proved approach is performed in a doctor’s office, typi- cally under the supervision of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon; no anesthesia or recovery time is necessary. It employs a contained suction device to cool the skin, as well as the fat beneath it, to 40 degrees. Several days later, the cooled fat cells begin to shrink. Damaged fat cells are slowly digested by the body over several months and removed through the liver. VelaShape. This non-surgical treatment for reducing cellulite combines radio frequency energy, infrared light, mechanical rollers and vacuum suction to heat and mas- sage the shallow layers of fat that contribute to cellulite. The handheld vacuum sucks at the fatty pocket, while the infrared light heats and shrinks fat cells.
Sage Advice
According to Dr. Brian S. Biesman, director of the Nashville Centre for Laser and Facial Surgery, where he specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid sur- gery, the ideal candidate for such treatments is near their ideal body weight and wants to remove unwanted fat in localized areas. He counsels, “It’s not an alternative to healthy diet or lifestyle.”
24 Los Angeles
NaturallyLA.com
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