This is the promise several cosmetic companies have been promoting. The problem is, patients looking for a dramatic appearance change have lofty expectations from nonsurgical options that can’t possibly deliver results comparable to surgical fat removal.

Treatments like mesotherapy, endermologie and lipodissolve present innovative-sounding methods of fat reduction, but they are not proven technologies. Most of these new nonsurgical treatments are also not FDA approved. With no long-term results to count on — and potential risks — there seems to be plenty of reasons not to invest in a nonsurgical approach.

Here’s a snapshot of some of the nonsurgical treatments available today:

Mesotherapy — injection of a special medicated solution removes fat cells
Endermologie — a motorized device is applied to skin to break down fat cells, temporarily reducing the appearance of cellulite
Lipozap — uses an anti-cellulite device, infrared head and radio frequency waves to break down fat cells
Lipodissolve — a chemical injection process is used to help fat cells dissolve
Thermage — a heated laser is claimed to tighten collagen, “melting” unwanted fat

With so many unanswered questions involved in nonsurgical liposuction, why not choose a proven method of fat removal? Surgical liposuction is a widely-recognized, FDA-approved method for permanent fat reduction that has helped countless people reach their body goals. Liposuction can be used on the arms, thighs, buttocks, stomach, face and other areas to extract stubborn fat cells. While nonsurgical techniques may claim to be “instantly slimming,” remember that the results can be disappointing. To learn more about the effectiveness of liposuction, check out the Before and After photos of liposuction patients and read Patient Testimonials about the procedure.

When you are ready to discuss your body contouring options, schedule a complimentary consultation with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery today.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Better technology — and new procedures — in the areas of facial rejuvenation and body rejuvenation allow cosmetic surgeons to increase safety while minimizing risks and to provide patients with the results they desire.

Know Your Risks
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Although extremely rare, complications can occur. Weighing the benefits against the risks and costs is a personal decision that takes time and careful thought. Remember — choosing a highly skilled surgeon, and following pre- and post-op instructions, can greatly minimize these risks.

Seek Life-Changing Results
There is one school of thought that believes elective surgery for physical enhancement is unnecessary and worth no amount of risk. Then there’s another school of thought that views the confidence and satisfaction achieved through cosmetic rejuvenation as priceless. Just ask some of my patients if they believe cosmetic surgery changed their lives. From having more energy due a positive self-image to smiling more and taking more social opportunities, the list of benefits goes on and on.

Have Realistic Expectations
Cosmetic surgery is not a cure-all. I do a thorough physical and psychological evaluation on all of my patients to ensure they are moving forward for the right reasons — and with realistic expectations. If you are weighing the benefits and risks to determine if cosmetic enhancement is right for you, do the research, examine your goals and visit with an experienced surgeon for more information.

For more information, visit the Mayo Clinic’s Cosmetic Surgery page: What to Know Beforehand.