Non-Invasive Fat-Melting Procedures – Hype or Reality?

Emerging Trends Discussed at American Society of Plastic Surgeons Annual Meeting

BALTIMORE – Whether their effectiveness is fact or fiction, non- and minimally-invasive techniques to remove fat are making headlines. But are these procedures really ready to be a part of mainstream plastic surgery? Plastic surgeons will discuss if these are cutting edge new discoveries or just “buyer beware" marketing hype this week at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) Plastic Surgery 2007 conference in Baltimore.

“Plastic surgeons may be looking at a new era in cosmetic plastic surgery if non- and minimally-invasive procedures and new technologies to melt unwanted fat are shown to be more effective in the future,” said Brian Kinney, MD, ASPS Member Surgeon and panel presenter. “It is important to note that FDA approval is needed prior to introducing new technologies. Liposuction is still the only proven, safe and effective way to remove fat. The next great challenge is to shape, mold and metabolically alter fat for a complete body contouring solution.”

Reducing, shattering and melting fat and cellulite are the buzz words, along with promises of fast and efficient procedures with minimal bruising, swelling and no down-time. Plastic surgeons will look at the science and the hype behind creams, and non- and minimally-invasive ultrasonic lasers, light therapies, and acoustic pulse treatments, such as Liporeductyl®, Theophyllisilane C, Acoustic Wave Therapy™, LipoSonix®, Mesotherapy, Lipodissolve, UltraShape®, and Smartlipo™.

“While there are many promising possibilities, it is important for plastic surgeons to fully evaluate new technologies before recommending them to patients,” said Peter Rubin, MD, ASPS Member Surgeon and panel moderator. “Non- and minimally-invasive options may prove useful to achieve moderate differences, with less risk for patients who aren’t ready for surgery, or may be used in combination with surgical options to achieve optimal results.”

More than 302,000 liposuctions were performed in 2006, according to ASPS statistics. In addition, 9.1 million minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures were performed last year, up 66 percent since 2000, illustrating the growing demand for non- and minimally-invasive procedures for all areas of the face and body.

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