Thakur Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics: Mrudangi Thakur M.D.

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) helps flatten the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin, and tightening muscles. The best candidates for abdominoplasty are in good physical condition, with pockets of fat or loose skin that have not responded well to diet and exercise. Abdominoplasty can also be appropriate for slightly obese people whose skin has lost some of its elasticity, and for women with skin and muscles stretched from pregnancy. Anyone planning on losing a significant amount of weight, and women planning on having (more) children, should wait before undergoing abdominoplasty. The Abdominoplasty Procedure Abdominoplasty takes approximately 2 to 5 hours to perform; the patient is placed under general anesthesia. Two incisions are made: one from hipbone to hipbone close to the pubic area, and another around the navel. Skin is separated from the abdominal muscles, which are then pulled together and stitched into place for a firmer abdomen and narrower waist. The skin flap is then stretched down over the newly tightened muscles, excess skin is removed, and the navel is reattached where it looks natural. The incisions are then closed, and sterile surgical dressings are applied over the sutured areas. Recovery After Abdominoplasty After surgery, a temporary tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site. An overnight hospital stay may be necessary. Recovery time ranges from 2 weeks to 2 months. Abdominoplasty leaves a scar spanning the lower abdomen from hip to hip, although it is low enough to be concealed by a bikini. Maintaining weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise provides long-lasting results. Risks of Abdominoplasty In addition to the usual risks associated with surgery and anesthesia, risks associated with abdominoplasty include the following: Asymmetry Poor aesthetic result Unsightly scarring Loose skin Numbness in skin sensation Need for revisional surgery Patients who have had previous abdominal surgery may find that their old scars look more raised, have stretched or are more noticeable in general. Undergoing a scar revision may minimize their prominence.

Buttock augmentation (a type of gluteoplasty) is performed to enlarge, and possibly reshape, buttocks that have not responded to diet or exercise. Candidates for buttock augmentation are unhappy with the lack of fullness, roundness and projection of their buttocks, and/or with having asymmetrical buttocks; they should also have realistic expectations about the results that surgery can provide. Significantly more women than men seek to have their buttocks augmented, but in recent years, the number of men has increased. Types of Buttock Augmentation Buttock augmentation is usually performed with implants or fat transfer, or a combination of the two. Which method is used depends primarily on the shape and size of the buttocks, the skin's quality and elasticity, and the amount of body fat available for transfer. Buttock Implants for Buttock Augmentation Typically, incisions for buttock implants are made in one of four areas: in each gluteal crease; overlying the tailbone at the top of the buttocks; in the crease between the buttocks; and at the side of each buttock, near the crease. After the incision or incisions are made, a silicone implant is inserted in each buttock within or above the gluteal muscle. The tissue within the buttocks is sutured, and the incisions are closed using sutures, adhesive or tape. Drains are usually inserted to prevent fluid from building up, and are left in place for about 7 days. During surgery, either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation is typically used. The results of buttock augmentation using implants is permanent, and are immediately apparent after surgery. Final results are evident after 3 months, at which point most of the swelling has subsided and the implants have "settled." Fat Transfer for Buttock Augmentation The fat used for buttock augmentation is usually taken from the patient's abdomen, hips, thighs or lower back. Fat is removed using liposuction, in which a cannula (a thin, hollow tube) is inserted through small incisions, and then moved back and forth to loosen excess fat, which is suctioned out using a vacuum or cannula-attached syringe. The fat is then purified, and injected into the buttocks at different depths for maximum absorption. It can take up to a year to see the final results of fat-transfer buttock augmentation, because the fat needs time to be completely absorbed. The results of buttock augmentation using fat transfer are often more natural-looking than those from implants, but a downside of the fat-transfer method is that the body reabsorbs part of the fat over time, so some of the initial fullness is lost. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, patients tend to retain 60 to 80 percent of fat that has been transferred. Recovery from Buttock Augmentation After buttock augmentation with fat transfer or implants, a compression garment must be worn for 2 to 3 weeks. For at least 2 weeks, patients should not sit directly on the buttocks; placing a pillow beneath the back of the legs to raise the buttocks and keep pressure off them is required. Sleeping facedown or on the side is also recommended. Patients typically experience pain/discomfort, bruising and swelling after the procedure. Implant patients typically go back to work in 2 or 3 weeks, but may not be able to resume exercising for 8 to 10 weeks. Recovery time for fat-transfer patients is slightly quicker, with most going back to work within 10 to 14 days, and resuming exercise after 8 weeks. Risks of Buttock Augmentation In addition to the risks associated with any surgery, those related to buttock augmentation using implants include the following: Implant migration Implant rupture Nerve damage Excessive firmness Sciatic-nerve pressure Fluid accumulation (seroma) In addition to the risks associated with any surgery, those related to buttock augmentation using fat transfer include the following: Cellulite Stretch marks Asymmetry Fat embolism Buttock augmentation with fat transfer includes the risks related to liposuction, which include indentations in the skin, scarring and contour irregularities.

Augmentation mammaplasty (breast enlargement) is performed to increase breast size and/or fix breast asymmetry. Candidates include women who want larger breasts, and those who want to restore the breast volume often lost as a result of pregnancy or significant weight loss. Breasts can be enlarged with implants or by fat transplantation. Augmentation mammaplasty is not a substitute for mastopexy, which is a procedure to "lift" breasts that sag significantly. Augmentation Mammaplasty with Implants Silicone and saline are the two implant types most commonly used in augmentation mammaplasty. Silicone implants feel more like natural breasts than saline ones. However, if a saline implant ruptures, the saline is naturally absorbed by the body, whereas if a silicone implant has an extracapsular rupture (a rupture to the outer capsule), silicone filler leaks into the body, possibly resulting in inflammatory nodules or enlarged lymph glands. Implants are placed behind each breast, underneath either breast tissue or the chest-wall muscle. The procedure lasts 1 to 2 hours, and is typically performed with general anesthesia, although local anesthesia combined with a sedative may be used. Incisions are made in inconspicuous places (in the armpit, in the crease on the underside of the breast, or around the areola) to minimize scar visibility. The breast is then lifted, creating a pocket into which the implant is inserted. Advantages of implant placement behind the chest-wall muscle include a possible reduced risk of capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around implant), and less interference during mammograms. Disadvantages include the possible need for drainage tubes, and a longer recovery period. Advantages of implant placement beneath breast tissue include that the breasts move more naturally as the patient uses her chest muscles, and that slight breast sagging is corrected. Other types of implants include "gummy bear," round, smooth and textured. Augmentation Mammaplasty with Fat Transplantation Augmentation mammaplasty with fat transplantation (fat transfer) uses liposuction to harvest excess fat from other parts of the body; the fat is then injected into the breasts. Augmentation mammaplasty is appropriate for women who are not looking for a dramatic increase in breast size, and want breasts that look and feel as natural as possible. For a number of weeks prior to augmentation mammaplasty, tissue expanders may be placed below the muscles of the chest wall to expand the breasts, and increase the amount of fat they can hold. When the tissue has expanded enough, augmentation using fat transfer can begin. First, fat is removed using liposuction, in which a cannula (a thin, hollow tube) is inserted through small incisions, and then moved back and forth to loosen excess fat, which is suctioned out using a vacuum or a cannula-attached syringe. The harvested fat cells are then purified. In the second procedure, which takes place on the same day, the fat is injected into the breast through small incisions. The procedure takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. Recovery from Augmentation Mammaplasty After augmentation mammaplasty with implants, drainage tubes may be inserted; incisions are stitched, taped and bandaged. A surgical bra is typically put over the bandages to minimize swelling and support the breasts. For a few days postsurgery, most patients feel tired and sore, but many return to work within a week. Stitches are removed in 1 week to 10 days; postoperative pain, swelling and sensitivity diminish during the first few weeks. Scars begin to fade in a few months. After augmentation mammaplasty with fat transplantation, recovery time is short, with normal activities being resumed as soon as the patient feels comfortable. Compression garments are typically worn over the areas that received liposuction. Risks of Augmentation Mammaplasty In addition to the risks associated with surgery and anesthesia, those related to augmentation mammaplasty using implants include the following: Capsular contracture Implant leaks and ruptures Implant deflation or shifting Temporary or permanent change in nipple/breast sensation Irregularities in breast contour/shape Asymmetry Partial or total loss of nipple/areola The risks related to augmentation mammaplasty using fat transplantation include those related to liposuction, as well as the following: Calcification Fat embolism Fat necrosis Oil cysts Loss of volume Because of the loss of volume that occurs when fat is reabsorbed by the body, touch-up injections of fat are often necessary. Injections can be performed using local anesthesia.

Breast reconstruction is performed on women who have lost one or both breasts to mastectomy, or who lack breasts due to congenital or developmental abnormalities. The goal of breast reconstruction is to create a breast and nipple that resemble the natural breast as closely as possible in shape, size and position. A long as a woman is healthy, age is not a factor in whether she is a good candidate for breast reconstruction. However, women with health problems such as obesity and high blood pressure, and those who smoke, are advised to wait rather than have breast reconstruction immediately following mastectomy. Types of Breast Reconstruction Breast reconstruction is performed in several steps, and there are essentially two types. Which one is used depends on whether there is enough tissue on the wall of the chest to cover/hold an implant. Whichever type is used, a woman's breast surgeon and plastic surgeon should work as a team during reconstruction. Implant/Tissue-Expansion Breast Reconstruction Implant/tissue-expansion breast reconstruction involves inserting an implant in the chest after the skin has been stretched enough by an expander to contain it. First, the surgeon inserts a balloon expander beneath the skin and chest muscle where the reconstructed breast will be built. Then, during the next few weeks or months, a saline solution is injected through a tiny valve beneath the skin into the expander. As the expander fills with saline, it stretches the skin and creates a pocket for the implant. The expander is left in place to serve as the implant or replaced with a another one, which can be made of saline or silicone gel. A final procedure reconstructs the areola and nipple. Some patients do not require tissue expansion, which can take up to a year to complete, and begin reconstruction with insertion of the implant. Autologous-Tissue Breast Reconstruction Autologous-tissue breast reconstruction is used if there is not enough tissue left post-mastectomy to create a new breast using tissue expansion, or a woman does not want implants. During autologous-tissue breast reconstruction, a breast is created using skin, fat and, sometimes, muscle from other parts of the body. The abdomen, back, buttocks or thighs are all donor sites. The donor tissue, which is called a "flap," is either surgically removed and reattached (free flap) to the chest, or left connected to its original blood supply and "tunneled" through the body to the chest (pedicle flap). There are a number of different flap techniques; which one is used depends on the individual patient. Factors taken into consideration include how much extra tissue is available for transfer; the width and flexibility of blood vessels; and how large the breast(s) needs to be. Implants may or may not be used with autologous-tissue breast reconstruction. Constructing a nipple and areola is performed in a separate surgery. It is essential that a patient have reasonable expectations about the results reconstruction provides. Recovery from Breast Reconstruction Recovery varies widely based upon the type of procedure used for breast reconstruction, as well as whether reconstruction immediately follows mastectomy. Hospital stays range from 1 to 6 days. Patients are tired and sore for 1 to 2 weeks, and recovery takes 3 to 6 weeks. Compression garments are typically worn, and stitches are taken out in a week to 10 days. A surgical drain may be left in place to prevent a buildup of fluid in the reconstructed breast; if so, it is removed within 1 or 2 weeks. Risks of Breast Reconstruction In addition to the risks associated with surgery and anesthesia, those related to implant/tissue-expansion breast reconstruction include infection around the implant, implant leaks and ruptures, and implant deflation or shifting. Risks related to autologous breast reconstruction, depending upon the technique used, include fat necrosis, abdominal weakness, hernia and a mismatch between chest tissue and donor tissue. Correcting reconstructive problems typically requires additional surgery. Results of Breast Reconstruction A reconstructed breast will not look the same as the original breast. And although a surgeon attempts to match the size, shape, position and other attributes of the remaining breast, an exact match is not possible. To achieve symmetry, the remaining breast may be operated on to make it bigger or smaller, or to lift it. In addition to not looking the same as the original, a reconstructed breast has little sensation, although there may be more when autologous tissue rather than an implant is used.

Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is a plastic surgery procedure for correcting sagging or drooping eyelids. The eyelid, because its skin is much thinner than that in other parts of the face, is often one of the first facial areas to exhibit signs of aging. Eyelids that sag or droop can affect peripheral vision, making daily activities such as driving more difficult. Blepharoplasty may become necessary when various factors, which include aging, sun damage, smoking and obesity, cause the muscles and tissue that support the eyelids to weaken. Reasons for Blepharoplasty Blepharoplasty tightens the eyelid's muscles and tissue, and removes excess fat and skin. Blepharoplasty eliminates the drooping of skin into the visual field, greatly improving peripheral vision. It is also performed for strictly cosmetic reasons. Functional Blepharoplasty If the eyelids begin sagging into the field of vision, a functional blepharoplasty may be required. The procedure may be covered by medical insurance if it is deemed medically necessary. A determination of how much vision is affected is done by checking the peripheral visual field with an instrument called the Humphrey Visual Field (HVF) Analyzer. Cosmetic Blepharoplasty Blepharoplasty can be performed on either the upper or lower eyelid, or on both, for cosmetic purposes. For a lower eyelid that needs fat rather than skin removed, a transconjunctival blepharoplasty is performed. During transconjunctival blepharoplasty, an incision is made inside the lower eyelid, so there are no visible scars, and the fat is removed. This procedure has no effect on vision, but results in a person's looking younger and more refreshed. It is important for a patient to have realistic expectations before undergoing cosmetic blepharoplasty. Although the procedure can enhance appearance and improve self-confidence, it does not radically alter the face. Candidates for Blepharoplasty The best candidates for blepharoplasty are those who are in good overall health, do not smoke, do not have any serious eye conditions, and have healthy facial tissue and muscle. People with eye disease, including glaucoma or retinal detachment, thyroid disorders, diabetes, cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure are not good candidates for blepharoplasty. The Blepharoplasty Procedure Blepharoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure requiring local anesthesia and sedation. General anesthesia may be used for anxious patients. Patients can choose to have this procedure on their upper or lower eyelids, or both. The procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on whether both the upper and lower eyelids are operated on. If the upper eyelid is being operated on, an incision is typically made along its natural crease. Once the incision is made, fat deposits are repositioned or removed, muscles and tissue are tightened, and excess skin is removed. For the lower eyelid, an incision is usually made just below the lash line so that excess skin can be removed. After the procedure, the incisions are closed with sutures, tissue glue or surgical tape, and usually loosely covered with gauze so the area can heal. Recovery After Blepharoplasty After blepharoplasty, patients may be advised to apply lubricating drops/ointment and cold compresses to aid in healing and minimize side effects. Most patients return to work within a few days to a week, but should avoid exercise and strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks. Stitches are usually removed after 3 or 4 days. Most swelling and other side effects typically subside within 2 weeks. Contact lenses and eye makeup may not be worn for 2 weeks after surgery. Patients are typically advised to wear dark sunglasses outside or in bright light for 2 weeks to protect their eyes from sun and wind. Risks of Blepharoplasty Although there may be swelling and bruising around the surgical site, they will subside on their own, and the eyelids will improve in appearance for up to a year. Uncommon side effects include infection, reaction to anesthesia, and double or blurred vision. Eyes may be irritated and dry due to a temporary change in tear distribution. Side effects such as uneven healing and permanent scarring are rare but, if they occur, may require surgical correction. The scars from blepharoplasty are well-concealed, and usually fade with time until they are virtually undetectable. Although the eyelids are still subject to aging, blepharoplasty produces long-lasting results.

Over time, gravity and sun exposure take their toll on the face and neck. Deep creases that run from each side of the nose to the corners of the mouth appear; the jawline slackens; and the neck develops loose folds and fat deposits. Rhytidectomy (facelift) counteracts these signs of aging by tightening muscle, removing fat, and trimming excess skin. Rhytidectomy improves the look of the lower and middle areas of the face, and the neck. It is most effective for correcting the following: Mid-face sagging Deep creases under the eyes Nasolabial folds Jowls Sagging fat Loose skin and fat under the chin and jaw Although rhytidectomy removes or reduces signs of aging, over time, they will gradually reappear. Rhytidectomy does not improve the look of the brow, eyelids and nose, and some parts of the mid-face. A patient who wants to improve those areas might combine rhytidectomy with a brow lift or eyelid surgery, and/or with injectable soft-tissue fillers, facial implants and skin resurfacing. Candidates for Rhytidectomy The best candidates for rhytidectomy want to correct one or more of the signs of aging indicated above; have some facial sagging, but still have elasticity in their skin; are generally healthy; do not smoke; and have realistic expectations about what rhytidectomy can do. It is very important that the surgeon ascertains whether the patient is only interested in rhytidectomy because of pressure from someone else. Types of Rhytidectomy Rhytidectomy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in an office-based facility, surgery center or hospital. Patients may have a choice of IV sedation or general anesthesia. The procedure takes about 2 hours. The way a facelift is performed depends on the surgeon, the patient's facial structure, and the extent of correction desired. Traditional Rhytidectomy A traditional rhytidectomy is a "full" facelift that rejuvenates the face, jowls and neck, and includes sculpting and redistributing of fat; lifting and repositioning of muscle and deeper tissues; and trimming and re-draping of skin. The incision begins at the temples and travels down to the front of the ear, around the earlobe and behind the ear to the lower scalp at the hairline. Sometimes, another incision is made under the chin. Limited-Incision Rhytidectomy A limited-incision rhytidectomy improves the area around the eyes and mouth by reducing nasolabial folds and other deep creases. Short incisions are made at the temples and around the ear, and possibly in the lower eyelids and/or under the upper lip. In both methods, incisions are closed with stitches or tissue glue. Scars are hidden in the hairline and natural contours of the face. Recovery from Rhytidectomy After rhytidectomy, the surgeon wraps the incisions in bandages, and may insert drainage tubes; if so, they are taken out the next day. If surgical clips are holding some incisions closed, they are removed, along with any stitches, 1 week after the procedure. Post-rhytidectomy, swelling, numbness, bruising and a feeling of tightness or tension in the face and neck may be felt. The face may look uneven or distorted, and facial muscles may feel stiff. Most of these side effects resolve within 3 to 6 weeks, and sensation typically returns to normal within a few months. Scars become less red, raised, lumpy and itchy over time. Many patients return to work by the third week. Camouflage cosmetics can be used to minimize the appearance of bruising. Results of Rhytidectomy Results of rhytidectomy are not permanent, and some patients choose to undergo another in 5 or 10 years. In some sense, however, effects are permanent; years later, the face continues to look better than if rhytidectomy had not been performed. Risks Associated with Rhytidectomy Possible complications of rhytidectomy include bleeding, infection, bruising, swelling or discoloration, allergic reaction to the anesthesia, skin blistering (usually only in smokers), nerve injury, and temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the face.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines. Applications for BOTOX Cosmetic Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following: Forehead furrows Frown lines Crow's feet Skin bands on the neck According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been "extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies." BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals. Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following: Pain Infection Inflammation Tenderness Swelling Redness Bleeding Bruising Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections.

Intense pulse light or IPL is a laser treatment that is used to treat skin conditions and remove signs of photoaging like uneven texture, spots, and wrinkles. As one of the most popular non-invasive treatment options out there, it’s no wonder that more and more patients keep coming back for more. How Many IPL Treatments Will I Need? Depending on your skin type and your concerns, we usually recommend that patients undergo a series of five treatments that are spaced about four weeks apart. In some instances, we may recommend some additional sessions but we will go over all of that in detail during your initial consultation. How Long Does Each Session Take? On average, each session takes about 20-30 minutes but that can vary from patient to patient. Is IPL Right For Me? The best way for you to determine whether or not IPL is right for you is by scheduling a consultation with our office. During your consultation we will go over your skin concerns and discuss the different treatment options that you have available to you including IPL. Does IPL Work On All Skin Types? Lighter skinned people who don’t use self-tanning products or who do not have a history of excessive tanning respond better to IPL than other patients. However, we will be able to give you a more definitive answer during your consultation. How Does IPL Work? IPL works in a similar way that laser works. But how? Like with laser, IPL uses energy that is absorbed into the targeted cells in the skin that have pigmentation. Specifically, when the light energy comes in contact with the skin, it turns into heat energy which causes damage to specific areas of the skin like sun spots or age spots. Once these areas are heated up, the skin responds by creating newer healthier skin in the process. What Can IPL Treat? One of the many unique benefits of IPL is that it can be used to treat a variety of different skin concerns including: Rosacea Facial flushing Red chests and necks Brown spots Sun damage Enlarged pores Spider veins What Is Recovery Like? Typically, patients can go right back to their normal activities including wearing makeup and exercising. We do, however, encourage patients to avoid any sun exposure because it may cause unwanted pigmentation. Are There Side Effects of IPL? Usually there are no side effects of IPL but some patients may appear to have a sunburn for a few hours after treatment. Other rare side effects of IPL include blistering, unwanted changes in pigmentation, scarring, swelling, and infection. Is IPL Expensive Depending on the provider that you end up going with, it will determine how expensive it is going to be. Overall, IPL is more affordable than other treatments. To learn more about IPL and whether or not it’s a good treatment for you, schedule a consultation appointment at our office today and we will get you taken care of.

Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin to make skin smoother, reduce scarring and remove blemishes. Ranging from mild to strong, there are three types of chemical peels: alphahydroxy acid (AHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol. The strength of each peel is tailored to the patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures, such as facelifts, for additional improvement to skin. Chemical peels may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons. Chemical peels are performed in a plastic surgeon's or dermatologist's office, or an outpatient surgical center. Anesthesia is not required because TCA and phenol have anesthetic properties, and AHA produces only a slight stinging. Chemical Peel Procedure During a TCA or phenol peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution is applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Petroleum jelly or a waterproof adhesive tape may be put on the skin following a phenol peel. During an AHA peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution applied; there is no need for post-peel ointment or covering. Side Effects of Chemical Peels A phenol or TCA peel can result in tingling or throbbing, reddened skin, a crust or scab, and significant swelling that lasts, depending on the strength of the peel used, about a week. With a phenol peel, eyes may be swollen shut at first, and the patient may be put on a liquid diet and advised to keep talking to a minimum. Any tape used is removed after a day or two. AHA peels can cause temporary stinging, redness and irritation, as well as flaking or crusting. After a chemical peel, it is essential that the skin be protected from the sun.

CoolSculpting® treatment is a breakthrough, non-invasive procedure that uses patented cooling technology to eliminate fat without surgery. This clinically proven technique is designed to selectively reduce the fat in problem areas that has proven resistant to reduction through diet and exercise. CoolSculpting gently cools targeted cells in the body to induce a natural, controlled elimination of these unwanted fat cells. Based on the scientific principle that fat cells are more sensitive to cold than the overlying skin and surrounding tissues, CoolSculpting reduces the temperature of fat cells in the treated area. This is intended to promote fat cell elimination through a natural biological process known as apoptosis, without causing scar tissue or damage to the skin, nerves or surrounding tissues. The CoolSculpting Procedure When treatment begins, the doctor will position the CoolSculpting device on the area and it will draw the bulge up between two cooling panels. The sensation is a firm pull and pressure-enough of a pull to ensure the selected tissue will be cooled efficiently. During the first few minutes of the cooling, you will feel pressure and intense cold. This soon dissipates and patients experience no pain. Many people read, work on a laptop or take a nap during their treatment. Treatment is usually complete in about one hour. Results of CoolSculpting Treatment Patients generally start to see results as soon as three weeks following treatment, with the most dramatic results occurring over a period of two to four months. The body will still flush out fat cells and continues doing so for up to six months after treatment. CoolSculpting is not intended as a weight-reduction program for obese individuals. The best candidates for the CoolSculpting procedure are people near their ideal body weight who eat well and exercise regularly yet have pockets of fat that are unresponsive. It is appropriate for those who are seeking spot reduction for specific areas of fat but are not interested in a surgical procedure. Recovery of CoolSculpting Treatment The procedure is completely non-surgical, so most people can resume their regular activities immediately. Patients frequently return to work after the session is finished.