Posts Tagged ‘fitness’

Laser Liposuction Risks

Tuesday, January 19th, 2010

Laser liposuction has earned accolades, or at least conveyed the impression, that it is simple business. You can undergo the procedure with local anesthesia, and then reap the benefits you hoped to reap with the procedure (lost fat, tighter and smoother skin, and others) and get back to your life, as you know it the same day.

However true that may be, it does not mean laser liposuction is entirely risk free. No surgery comes without risk. In addition, as numerous medical observers and practitioners like to remind people, laser liposuction is surgery. Suction-oriented procedures have particularized risks in general, of course, but this liposuction’s risks are compounded to a certain extent by the laser itself.

“Most people of course do perceive it to be the very easy,” writes Florida therapist Caroline Bourke, “and this kind of thinking has allowed some doctors to offer their (often untrained) services to people looking for a quick fix to their fat related problems. This in fact is one of the biggest laser liposuction risks that you must be aware about and then you need to ensure that you do not fall into such traps.”

“Most people of course do perceive it to be the very easy,” writes Florida therapist Caroline Bourke, “and this kind of thinking has allowed some doctors to offer their (often untrained) services to people looking for a quick fix to their fat related problems. This in fact is one of the biggest laser liposuction risks that you must be aware about and then you need to ensure that you do not fall into such traps.”

“Lipo sculpture with or without the laser is a surgical procedure,” writes Dr. Brooke Seckel, a Massachusetts plastic surgeon who specializes in facial aging correction, “and as with heart surgery, brain surgery or any other type of surgery, if I am having surgery I am going to do my homework and find the best board certified surgeon I can find to perform my operation . . . If you are considering any type of plastic surgery do your homework. Read more about the procedure you are interested in. Study the bio and credentials of the board certified plastic surgeons in your area. Be an informed consumer.”

Some of laser liposuction risks otherwise include loose skin, a problem usually believed to be uncommon with the procedure and believed the major impediment to surgical fat removal. However, the risk increases if an inexperienced or technically weak practitioner performs the procedure.

The heat element used in the procedure carries a risk, too. It may be laser liposuction’s major advance, but if it is used too aggressively or too carelessly, or if the heat fiber conducting the laser is too close to the skin, the risks of burns, damaged, or lost skin rise accordingly

The fiber is also placed just beneath the skin during the procedure, and that opens a risk of infection. As with any surgical procedure, sterile conditions and antibiotic support are critical. The procedure also carries a lesser bleeding risk than standard liposuction, but the risk remains nevertheless. In addition, the common liposuction anesthetic, lidocaine, is risky if administered improperly or excessively. So investigate and settle only on a well-trained, experienced surgeon. That is important for laser liposuction and any surgery you may require.

Visit LaserLiposuctionPrices.com for more information on laser liposuction including pricing, risk and how to shop for a liposuction surgeon.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , ,

Ultrasonic Liposuction Unsound?

Sunday, January 10th, 2010

It sounded immaculately appealing at first: ultrasonic energy applied to fat in order to perform “negative-energy” liposuction. For those looking to trim the fat surgically, this sounded ideal. Perhaps it sounded too ideal.

“[A]t this time ultrasonic-assisted liposuction has some drawbacks which do not appear to be outweighed by the benefits . . . The energy which is applied has caused some undesirable side effects, including burns and other trauma on the skin and elsewhere,” University of Chicago dermatologist Dr. Jeffrey Melton has written. “Therefore, the use of ultrasound in liposuction remains somewhat controversial . . . Perhaps lasers, ultrasound, or some other advance will bring about the third major advance in liposuction, whatever it may be, but I do not think we are there yet, at least not with ultrasonic liposuction in its current forms.”

Ultrasonic liposuction was taken up first in Europe in the 1990s, but the procedures became controversial enough thanks mostly to complications such as safety risks and medical complications, particularly with internal ultrasonic liposuction devices. Those became widespread enough that Europeans gave it up in short order, while North American acceptance was hampered when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration refused to approve internal ultrasonic liposuction devices.

In not so simple terms, the safety of the procedure has been a primary reason why it has fallen out of favor almost as fast as its initial supporters took it up. Complications such as dermal necrosis, postoperative seromas (fluid-filled cavities beneath the skin), and foam blisters were found often enough in several medical surveys that liposuction surgeons determined the procedure was not as safe as tumescent liposuction.

Ultrasonic liposuction was performed either internally or externally. The internal procedure sends ultrasound right to the fat cells through a skin incision, while the external procedure involves laying a paddle instrument on the skin above the areas in question. Aside from the European experience and the American disapproval of internal ultrasonic liposuction, the external procedure proved to have no benefit and fell out of use faster.

The external procedure’s problems prompted manufacturers-whose devices are usually used by conventional physical therapists-to consider warnings against using the apparatus for ultrasonic liposuction of the male chest and female abdomen, the neck, and the chin areas, in addition to existing warnings against using them adjacent to the heart or the ovaries. Indeed, equipment breakdown is cited frequently as a primary risk in the procedure, sometimes provoking secondary exploratory surgery to locate and remove cannulae broken by the sonic vibrations over repeated usage.

The problems with the external procedure prompted manufacturers-whose devices are usually used by conventional physical therapists-to consider warnings against using the apparatus for ultrasonic liposuction of the male chest and female abdomen, the neck, and the chin areas, in addition to existing warnings against using them adjacent to the heart or the ovaries. Indeed, equipment breakdown is cited frequently as a primary risk in the procedure, sometimes provoking secondary exploratory surgery to locate and remove cannulae (the reed-like tube used in the procedure and inserted into the patient) broken by the sonic vibrations over repeated usage.

Some medical thinkers such as Dr. Jeffrey Melton, a University of Chicago dermatologist, believe ultrasonic liposuction may yet be improved to the point where it becomes a viable procedure with reduced risks.

Liposuction prices vary greatly depending on the different techniques used and ultrasonic liposuction is only one of many. Learn more about liposuction risks before committing to any type of treatment.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , ,

Tummy Tuck Complications

Saturday, January 9th, 2010

Before you decide to have a tummy tuck, it is a good idea to learn about the potential risks and complications. Choosing a plastic surgeon recommended by the American Board of Plastic Surgery is the most reliable way to minimize the risks.

An expert surgeon will be more likely to provide you with the results you desire with minimal drawbacks; however, patients should still educate themselves on the reality of the procedure so that they know they are making the right decision.

A tummy tuck takes 2 to 4 hours, and is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision across the lower abdomen between the hipbones. They then loosen the skin up to the rib cage, and suture various points of the abdominal muscles to tighten the area. Once the muscle is adjusted, excess fat is removed by liposuction. The last step is centering the navel and securing the skin.

Complications are a possibility with any invasive procedure, and a tummy tuck is no exception. Scarring can result from improper healing, and may require follow-up surgery. The re-draping of skin that takes place at the end of the procedure may create an abnormal appearance, which may improve on its own or require further treatment. The shape of the navel may also be distorted after the tummy tuck.

In addition to cosmetic complications, nerves may be affected by the tummy tuck and result in numbness in the area. Sometimes, patients have reactions to anesthesia, and infection is always a risk with any surgery. Aspiration pneumonia, blood clots, and reactions to medication are also a possibility.

During the consultation with your surgeon, they should explain all of these complications as well as the tactics they employ to minimize risk. If the surgeon makes light of possible consequences, that is more a sign of their attitude rather than their skill.

Ask your surgeon how they can prevent these complications. Basic techniques such as a commitment to a sterile operating room are important.

Finally, all patients heal at different rates. Discuss with your surgeon what kind of candidate you are for the surgery and whether there is any preparation you can undertake, as people who are generally fit will recover faster. By taking these precautions, you will minimize your chances of tummy tuck risks and get the most out of your procedure.

The Low Cost Tummy Tuck Guide was established to help people learn about the various aspects of tummy tuck costs. One of these facets include what is the Average Cost Tummy Tuck.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , ,

The Benefits of Tumescent Liposuction

Friday, January 1st, 2010

Although many people have less than favorable views of their own bodies and would like to run to the nearest (and most affordable) plastic surgeon for a spectacular fix, there is an ideal candidate for the procedure. For most surgeons, that person is physically fit and eats a well-balanced diet, but has a tendency to retain fat that is often a genetic predisposition. Tumescent liposuction, which places the patient under a local anesthesia and hedges the potential for significant blood loss, is a reasonable consideration for those who have fatty deposits that are pretty restricted to a particular location.

The procedure minimizes the possibility of major blood loss by placing the patient under a local anesthetic rather than a general one. It is a recommended surgery for those who are already physically fit and just overweight by about 10 to 20 pounds. The fatty deposit in the skin of these clients should be localized, as well.

The standard procedure for tumescent liposuction empowers both the doctor and the patient to see exactly what will happen before it actually happens. The patient gives signed consent, and the doctor sterilizes the skin and draws a map with a sterile pen of where all the incisions will go. The patient is able to see “before” pictures that show the map on his or her skin where the doctor will concentrate on removing fat. This process truly allows the patient to know the intent of the doctor so that there are few surprises.

There are some clear advantages to using the tumescent liposuction procedure as compared to the traditional liposuction methods more prevalent prior to the 1990s. The most important one is that the patient tends to lose far less blood. Patients also do not need IV fluids for this procedure. Topical anesthetics like lidocaine also reduce the risk of infections.

One of the biggest fears of most liposuction patients is scarring of having the procedure go so awry that it has to be performed a second time to clean up the mess of the first surgery. Tumescent liposuction helps to allay some of those fears because it makes defects caused by tumescence a lot more visible. Doctors are able to get it right the first time.

Tumescent liposuction seems to have the magic of making the cellulite that appears in the surface of the skin disappear. Patients should be aware, however, that the cellulite does not exactly go away. Surgery changes the skin surface but does not remove the fatty deposits that altered the skin surface in the first place.

Using the procedure repeatedly as a quick fix for weight control is also frowned upon. Eating a healthy diet and exercising are still the best ways to manage weight and to stay a step ahead of cellulite. Post-op appetites have tended to be a bit more suppressed than the usual appetites of patients. Once the appetite returns to normal, however, it is important to make better food choices, eating habits and exercise regimens so that the body can do the work of good health on its own.

Tumescent liposuction is not intended for everyone who believes he or she needs it in order to look better and weigh less. It is intended for those who are already maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but just cannot seem to lose the last bit of bulge even after working out.

Learn more about tumescent liposuction and laser assisted liposuction procedures before taking the next step.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , ,

An Overview of a Tummy Tuck

Monday, December 28th, 2009

The abdominoplasty, more informally referred to by many patients as the “tummy tuck” is a procedure which can carry the risk of complications. We recommend you do not wait until after your operation to learn about the pros and cons of abdominoplasty.

Tummy tucks are done to flatten the stomach, which cuts out extra fat and excessive skin from the abdominal region. The majority of individuals with concerns about their stomach’s appearance may want to look into the less invasive options prior to undergoing this operation.

The operation is not only for women-both sexes can benefit from tummy tucks. Regardless of gender, each person considering an abdominoplasty needs to receive a thorough review their current health status. Not all candidates will be pre-authorized for a tummy tuck.

Women who are considering pregnancy in the future or people who might undergo major weight loss should think carefully before having an abdominoplasty.

Learn about the difference between traditional and partial tummy tucks. These operations are different in terms of how long the surgeon’s incision line will need to be. Your surgeon should communicate this to you in relation to your anatomical needs.

Many HMOs and PPOs will refuse to pay for your tummy tuck costs, but there are definitely exceptions to this rule. Your health insurance might pay you or your surgeon a small portion costs, or more when the surgeon convinces the company that it is indeed a procedure of true medical need.

In anticipation of electing abdominoplasty, the patient’s responsibility is to become aware of any issues such as post-op scarring and any surgical complications that may occur as a result of the tummy tuck. All operative procedure do come with the possibility of problems, and the likelihood of a problem is much greater if you are a smoker, have significant heart arrhythmias or disease, are at risk for the formation of blood clots, or have other diseases such as respiratory problems.

In addition to tummy tuck costs and other considerations, locating a quality surgeon is crucial. Get your questions answered by the surgeon ahead of time, and take an active role in the process. The more actively you participate in the research and communication with your surgeon, the more confidence you will have in the process.

The Tummy Tuck Costs Guide was established to help people learn about the various aspects of tummy tuck costs. One of these facets include How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , ,

Liposuction Procedural Cost For Men

Sunday, December 27th, 2009

People generally tend to believe that more women undergo plastic surgery than men. However, today liposuction for men is gaining momentum, especially in metropolitan cities like New York and Los Angeles. The procedural difference in the treatment offered to the men and women based on the requests put forth by them explains why the actual cost of liposuction is more for men than for women.

Typically, the cost of liposuction is based on the area covered under the surgery. This is one of the underlying facts that define why the charges levied from men for liposuction is greater than on women. With men being well-built than women, he has more area to be covered resulting in larger costs as compared to that on women.

Similarly, the dosage of anesthesia varies with the area to be covered by surgery. Liposuction procedure mostly demands for local anesthesia that does not call for the services of a professional anesthesiologist. Smaller portion of area to be covered calls for lower dosage of anesthesia, which in turn pulls down the actual cost of liposuction.

But that is just the tip of the iceberg. There is a biological difference between men and women that make it more expensive for men to receive liposuction. The actual fat cells themselves are more fibrous and tougher to remove from male bodies than their female counterparts.

Also, men tend to request treatment on areas that are already more fibrous in nature than other parts of the body. These are the parts that are hard to reach by exercise and dieting such as the abdomen, the chest, and the love handles at the sides of the waist.

Attaining the advice from a board certified plastic surgeon is essential before proceeding with the actual surgery. This is to ensure that the individual seeking liposuction is healthy enough to undergo the treatment without risking any complications, later on. Today many men go for laser liposuction as it is considered safe over other methods of surgery.

Visit the Laser Liposuction and Liposuction Prices website for more information about laser liposuction, liposuction prices, or just liposuction in general.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Tummy Tuck Surgeons

Saturday, December 26th, 2009

The secret to the best results for a tummy tuck, as in any other plastic surgery, is a good surgeon. The right surgeon will not only help you in your quest for physical improvement, but will also protect your health while doing so.

It is essential to pick a qualified surgeon, for although a tummy tuck may seem less drastic than procedures such as heart surgery, it is still an invasive surgery. A skillful hand and mind will prevent negative consequences, such as cosmetic problems, complications, or even death.

In 2007, plastic surgery ethics’ became increasingly controversial following the death of hip-hop star Kanye West’s mother due to a botched tummy tuck. The tragic incident resulted from the incompetence of her surgeon, who had a history of malpractice charges and complaints.

Rule number one of choosing a tummy tuck surgeon is to do some research, confirming that your surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has a good record. Most surgeons offer photographic evidence of their past successes in routine consultations, but it is important to do outside research to confirm their skill level.

This leads to rule number two, which is to avoid falling into the trap of trying to find the cheapest surgeon. A surgeon who charges significantly below the average cost of any procedure may be doing so in order to attract business despite a problematic history of practice.

While comparison shopping is a smart technique for many services, allowing one to balance price against quality, surgery involves other considerations. Invasive surgeries, such as tummy tuck surgery, can dramatically affect your health. Be sure to look at previous patients’ reviews in addition to prices and the promises made by the surgeon’s office, so you can be sure that you are dealing with an expert.

The American Board of Plastic Surgery website is a useful tool when picking a tummy tuck surgeon. Important information, such as a list of certified top surgeons and details on the surgery itself as well as its possible risks, are easily accessible.

Having as much information as possible will empower you to find the right surgeon and improve your communications with them during the process leading up to the procedure.

The Tummy Tuck Cost Guide was established to help people learn about the various aspects of tummy tuck costs. One of these facets include what is the Average Cost Tummy Tuck.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , ,