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Aesthetic Dermatology Liposuction
Figure 2: Smooth Contouring of Bilateral Thighs factors require the treating physician to rely more heavily on
conventional suction techniques to achieve a good end result. None of
Baseline 3 months post-Tx
these factors are a concern with the use of the rounded larger-diameter
fibres of the SlimLipo system. Additionally, competitive systems with
conventional fibres deliver more concentrated energy at the tip. This
may result in irregular heating of fat and dermis, more easily punctured
skin and a resulting increased risk of less than optimal outcome with
irregular depressions.
Data from our studies using SlimLipo to treat excess fat in the abdomen,
thighs and arms show impressive results (see Figures 2–5). Nearly 50%
of patients exhibited good improvement in their cosmetic outcomes as
Figure 3: Minimal Bruising and Quick Results early as two weeks post-treatment, and by six weeks nearly 90%
Observed in Flank Region
demonstrated excellent improvement. Given that progressive
improvement over time is typically observed, we anticipate these results
Baseline 48 hours post-Tx 6 weeks post-Tx
will show further enhancement at six and 12 months post-operatively
with further retraction and contouring of treated areas. All of the patients
shown were treated under tumescent anaesthesia alone (0.1% lidocaine
with 1:1,000,000 epinephrine) with a range of infiltrate volume of
1,300–2,200cc. Aspirate volumes ranged from 250–950cc (average
Figure 4: Flattening and Sculpting of Upper and
300cc). Only one to two incisions were made for each treatment site,
Lower Abdomen
and patients were treated by the study protocol, which required the use
of the 924nm wavelength at 17W.
Baseline 3 months post-Tx
Figures 2–4 show significant fat reduction and smooth contouring of the
skin in the abdomen and thigh regions. These patients demonstrated
insignificant bruising and minimal post-operative pain and tenderness.
Tenderness was controlled by ibuprofen alone and no narcotic pain
medications were required. Bruising was seen in only two patients and
was insignificant compared with standard suction lipoplasty.
Additionally, the amount and time of drainage through puncture sites
was minimal compared with standard liposuction. As a result of the
decreased bruising, tenderness and drainage of tumescent solution, all
Figure 5: Bar Graph Showing Percentage of Subjects patients returned to work the next day. Furthermore, swelling was
Giving Positive Assessments for SlimLipo™ Treatment
minimal, with most patients noticing an improvement in the contour of
at All Follow-up Visits
treated areas within seven days.
Subject self-assessments
100
All study subjects were given self-assessment questionnaires to fill out
regarding various aspects of their SlimLipo treatment. Subjects were
80 asked to indicate whether they agreed, were uncertain or disagreed
with the following statements:
60
• the appearance of unwanted fat is significantly improved in the
40
treatment area;
of subjects who agree
%
• my skin looks smoother after the treatment;
20
• my skin is much tighter in the treated area;
• this treatment works well to improve localised fat deposits;
0
Significantly Smoother Tighter Works well Would Would • I would choose to do this procedure again; and
improved skin skin on choose recommend
appearance localised procedure procedure
• I would recommend this treatment to a friend.
of fat fat again
The results from this survey mirrored physician observations (see Figure
2 weeks 6 weeks 3 months
5). At all time-points, 100% of subjects agreed that SlimLipo treatment
with conventional fibre delivery systems and less selective wavelengths significantly improved the appearance of fat and worked well on
has delivered impressive clinical results in our current experience. The localised fat. At two weeks post-treatment, 83% of subjects felt their skin
theoretical advantages to the combination of wavelengths and use of a was smoother and 67% felt their skin was tighter; by three months
wavelength specifically targeting adipose tissue have translated into post-treatment these numbers had increased to 100%. Perhaps one of
actual improved clinical outcomes and end-user utility. Conventional the best indicators of a successful cosmetic procedure is whether the
300–500µm-diameter fibres in competitive systems require the use of patients would recommend the procedure to family and friends. When
greater force, pose an increased risk of snagging or breaking when used asked this question at the six-week follow-up visit, 100% of patients
in fibrous areas and deliver unreliable energy once re-cleaved. These indicated they would recommend this procedure and would choose it
56 EUROPEAN DERMATOLOGY
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