But the newest anti-obesity medication, semaglutide, still shooting up in popularity more than two years after being approved, is injecting hope into the helplessly overweight.

What is Semaglutide

Sold under the brand names, Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy, Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 RAs,  which mimic the body’s GLP-1 hormone that is naturally released in the gut. Used to treat type-2 diabetes for 15 years,  the GLP-1 hormone prompts the body to produce more insulin, which works to control blood glucose levels.

When given in higher dosages, GLP-1 also interacts with the parts of the brain that suppress appetite and signal hunger satiation. When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, Semaglutide has not only shown to have promising results for the morbidly obese, obese, and overweight,  but it has been shown to reduce the risk of some types of cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

As the medical community begins to accept obesity as a chronic metabolic disease instead of blaming the condition on a person’s lack of willpower or sedentary lifestyle, semaglutide has been shown to be effective in the age-old struggle with losing weight.  But semaglutide, though recognized as a scientific breakthrough by many,  is not a cure for obesity nor is it right for everyone.

With no one-size-fits-all solution, obesity is a heterogenous, chronic, and complex condition that normally requires a lifelong commitment to manage.

Semaglutide for Weight Loss

As of the date of publication, Semaglutide has only been approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. But as interest in semaglutide for weight loss continues to grow, and demand for Wegovy is outweighing supply, health care professionals have been prescribing other brands of semaglutide, such as Ozempic, for off-label use. Off-label is when a drug is used for a purpose other than the original reason it is TGA-approved.

But with so many people using semaglutide off-label for rapid weight loss, demand has become so high, that there is a shortage for people who need it as a diabetes medicine, the drug’s original purpose. 

Semaglutide Effectiveness for Weight Loss Among Non-Diabetics 

Though there have been other medications that work to suppress appetite, semaglutide performs on a whole new level.

In a study of obese adults, participants who only incorporated lifestyle changes lost about 2.4% of their weight, whereas 1/2 of the participants using semaglutide in conjunction with the exact same lifestyle changes  lost 15% of their body weight, with ⅓ losing as much as 20%. Since then, studies have continued to show similar results. It has also been revealed, however, that some participants regained the weight lost when semaglutide use stopped.

When it comes down to it, weight management will always involve a lifestyle intervention such as diet and exercise. That has not changed. But having anti-obesity medications available for many who struggled and failed with attempts to drop weight for years is extremely promising.

Possible Side Effects of Semaglutide

The side effects of semaglutide are generally mild.

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Gas
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pain
• Bloating 

For patients just starting semaglutide, GI issues are the most common complaint. Side effects can be reduced by beginning with a lower dose and then slowly increasing the dosage. 

Serious symptoms, though rare, include allergic reactions, thyroid cancer, and low blood sugar.

Who Should Take Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

The TGA recommends Wegovy for weight loss if you meet one of the following criteria:

• BMI of 27 kg/m2 or higher, and at least one condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
• BMI of 30 kg/m2 or greater

Who Should NOT Take Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

• Anyone with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2;
• gallbladder disease;
• pancreatitis;
• Or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)

Before considering semaglutide, consult your primary care physician as they know your personal and family medical history and can guide you in the best treatment for your condition.

Unexpected semaglutide popularity began to rise in the last year thanks to a social media frenzy. The increase in demand for the drug for weight loss has caused a worldwide shortage, leaving those who need it waiting in the wings. 

How Semaglutide Works

Semaglutide acts on appetite centers in the brain, increasing the feeling of fullness and slowing down the emptying of †he stomach’s contents.

It affects the secretion of insulin and glucagon, which is why it is so effective in diabetes.

Semaglutide has been reported to reduce the risk of heart disease. Other medications in the past have reduced weight but increased the risk of heart attack, which made them dangerous.

Semaglutide Injection Best Practices

• Read and follow enclosed instructions carefully before each use and ask your doctor if you have any questions.
• Semaglutide injections are given as a shot under the skin on the upper stomach, thighs, or upper arm.
• Alternate injection site each time you give yourself a shot.
• Always check the liquid in the pen. It should be clear and colorless. Do not use it if it is cloudy, discolored, or has particles in it.
• Use a new needle each time you inject your medicine.
• Never share medicine pens with others under any circumstances. Sharing needles or pens can transmit infection.
• Use this medicine on the same day each week with or without meals.

Dosing

The dose will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s directions and do not change unless your doctor tells you to do so.

Missed Dose

If you accidentally miss a dose, just take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up doses.

If you miss a dose for more than 2 weeks, ask your doctor about how to restart your treatment.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

Store the opened Ozempic® pen in the refrigerator for 56 days or the opened Wegovy pen in the refrigerator for 28 days. Throw away the pen after 56 days for Ozempic® or 28 days for Wegovy®, even if it still has medicine in it.

Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container so the needles cannot poke through.

How Much Does Semaglutide Cost?

With an average cost in Australia at $130 a month, one of the greatest barriers to semaglutide for weight loss is the cost.  

Obesity is more common in lower income groups, so those who would benefit the most may be the least able to afford it. This lack of equity must be wrestled with if this medication becomes widely used for obesity management. 

Downsides of Semaglutide

Societal pressure to be skinny is a powerful incentive to lose weight, especially in a world where obesity is stigmatized. The potential for semaglutide to be used by people who are not obese is a risk worth noting. Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of over 30, and overweight is BMI of 25-30. Because it suppresses appetite, it might enable people with certain eating disorders or those with lower BMIs. 

Another downside is the drug’s impact on socialization.  Because patients feel full after just a few bites, meals with friends and family can be awkward.

Less common Constipation hair loss Rare Bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of the skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site change in taste loss of taste Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. There is a problem

Less common Constipation hair loss Rare Bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of the skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site change in taste loss of taste Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. There is a problem

Why Doctors Prescribe Semaglutide for Weight Loss 

Obesity management should always start with lifestyle interventions such as reducing caloric intake and increasing physical activity.  

But when these efforts have failed in the past, options have been limited. While the most effective option, bariatric surgery, is generally well-tolerated and effective, it is a lifelong change.

Celebrity Semaglutide Weight Loss

Ozempic is the newest craze taking over Hollywood for chronic weight management. While stars like Kyle Richards have denied using the Type II diabetes medication, others have spoken out about their decision to use the drug to shed weight quickly.

Tracy Morgan

During an August 2023 appearance on the Today Show, Tracy Morgan admitted taking Ozempic injections.

“It cuts my appetite in half,” reported Morgan, “now I only eat half a bag of Doritos.”

As for his gym routine, the actor added, “I get up at seven every morning, and I’m in the gym at 10.”

Amy Schumer 

Schumer admitted that she lost weight using Ozempik, but had to stop taking the drug because it made her feel sick. 

Shumer slammed celebrities who lie about using the weight-loss drug.

“Everyone has been lying saying, ‘Oh smaller portions.’ Like shut the f—k up.”

Sharon Osbourne

Though the former reality star did not specify which medication she used, Sharon Osborn said it helped her lose 30 pounds in just four months but that she got “very sick” and had to stop. 

Chelsea Handler

Chelsea Handler was also on the weight-loss drug, but has since stopped because it made her nauseous.  

“I’m not on (semaglutide) anymore,” she clarified. “I’m an irresponsible drug user… it’s not right for me.”

Elon Musk

Elon Musk admitted to using semaglutide for weight management. When asked about his secret, the billionaire tweeted, “Fasting” and “Wegovy.”

The post Semaglutide For Weight Loss: Injecting Hope for the Obese, and Extremely Overweight appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.

While there was once a time when the only options to eliminate rolls of fat were more invasive procedures such as tummy tucks and liposuction, today’s newer treatments can be performed in an office setting with no drugs or serious downtime. But with several new options available, it’s important to understand the difference between them. The two most popular non-surgical fat reduction treatments are TruSculpt® iD and CoolSculpting.

What is the Difference Between TruSculpt® iD and CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting and TruSculpt® iD share a lot of the same features. Both are non-invasive procedures, which means they don’t require needles, knives, hospital stays, or anaesthesia.  With both procedures,  the results are permanent; meaning, once the fat cells are eliminated from the body, they are gone forever.

One of the best things about these new non-surgical procedures is that they allow you to target fatty areas without visible downtime. That means you can get back to the office, your family, and the gym right away. 

But even though the ultimate results are similar, each treatment takes a very different approach to the process. CoolSculpting, as the name implies, uses extreme cold to destroy fat cells. TruSculpt® iD, on the other hand, relies on heat to eliminate excess fat cells. 

Freezing Fat With CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is a branded form of cryolipolysis, a non-surgical procedure that helps eliminate excess fat cells underneath the skin. CoolSculpting, developed by Harvard University researchers, destroys fat cells by freezing them. After the cells are frozen, the body eliminates the fat cells naturally.

The results of CoolSculpting are long term, and though results begin to become visible as soon as three weeks after treatment, the most dramatic changes occur after two months. In some cases,  the transformation can take as long as six months.

How CoolSculpting Works

Using a vacuum applicator, CoolSculpting works by freezing the fat in the target area.  While the procedure is being performed, patients report feeling some discomfort, similar to a tingling sensation. There can also be some minor side effects, such as redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, achiness, and skin sensitivity. These side effects are normal, and not all patients experience them. In rare cases,  patients can have felt a deeper discomfort.  Most side effects subside after the procedure.

The CoolSculpting procedure typically takes 35 to 60 minutes, depending on the number and size of the area(s) being treated. More than one device can be used simultaneously on different areas, a process called dual sculpting.  

Who is a Good Candidate for CoolSculpting?

Men and women who are healthy and near their target weigh are good candidates for CoolSculpting.  However, the treatment is not recommended for people who are obese, extremely overweight, or pregnant; or have had recent surgeries, diseases of the lymphatic system, or a history of eating disorders.

Treatment Time: 35 minutes to an hour.

Treatments needed: 2 to 4 treatments per area

Down time: No downtime; patients may return to their normal daily activities immediately following their treatment.

Side effects: Potential side effects include mild tingling, tenderness, numbing, bruising, redness.

When Will I See  Results?:  It takes approximately 3 weeks after treatment for results to be seen. For most patients, changes can be seen as soon as 3 days after treatment. 8-12 weeks after the treatment, more dramatic changes appear.

Number of Fat Freezing Sessions Required to Achieve Optimal Results: The number of sessions varies according to the patient’s goals, how much weight they have to lose, and the number of targeted areas, however the average person needs between 1-2 sessions a week.

Disadvantages of CoolSculpting

Though CoolSculpting destroys fat cells, new fat cells can still develop in other areas if the patient gains weight again. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise to maintain results.

Common Risks of Fat Freezing

• Skin Irritation
• Redness
• Pain
• Stinging
• Numbness
• Bruising

Less Common Risks of CoolSculpting Procedure

• Hyperpigmentation
• Prolonged pain or discomfort beyond two weeks
• Dryness of the mouth
• Reduced tongue and lip movement 
• Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH)
• Fat cells grow larger grow instead of shrinking

Melting Unwanted Fat with TruSculpt iD® Fat Reduction Treatment

TruSculpt iD® is a safe and effective technology that is clinically proven to permanently destroy fat cells in stubborn areas that cause pockets of fat on the stomach, fatty inner and outer thighs, and flabby upper arms as well as a double chin. 

How TruSculpt iD® Works

TruSculpt iD® delivers radio-frequency energy by heating the fat layer below the skin. As the treatment progresses and a higher temperature is sustained, it creates a warming sensation, similar to a hot stone massage. Not only does this sensation indicate that fat cells are melting but that extra collagen is being produced which helps tone and tighten the skin.

TruSculpt iD®  treatment does not require any downtime and can be effective on all skin types, on multiple areas, and usually takes less than one hour.

Results of TruSculpt iD®  treatment will start to be visible between 2 weeks and  3 months as the body processes and eliminates the dead  fat cells.

The number of treatments varies depending on the size and number of targeted areas since each patient’s body type is different, has different goals, and has their own individual challenges.

Related Blog Post: TruSculpt® vs. Liposuction Surgery: Which One is Right for Me?

Who is a Good Candidate for TruSculpt iD®

A TGA-approved body contouring procedure, TruSculpt iD® is beneficial for both men and women who are healthy and near their target weight, but still have problem areas that won’t go away despite all their dieting and activity efforts. TruSculpt iD® is not recommended, however,  for obese and extremely overweight patients;  pregnant women; or people with pacemakers, internal defibrillators, or metallic implants.

Related Blog Post: Non-Invasive Fat-Reduction and Body Contouring Without Knives or Needles: TruSculpt iD® for Men

Treatment Time for TruSculpt iD®

Treatment generally takes between 15 minutes to an hour depending on the number of treatment area(s).

Side Effects of TruSculpt iD®

One of the benefits of TruSculpt iD® is that there are few, if any, side effects related to the procedure. Some minor side effects include:

• Redness
• Sweating
• Mild tenderness in the treated areas

Is TruSculpt® iD Fat Reduction Treatment Painful?

Using a Monopolar Radio Frequency device, pulses of energy heat and shrink fat cells. Adjustable to conform to each patient’s needs, the level of heat can be altered so each client feels comfortable and experiences little to no pain.

How Long Does It Take To See Noticeable Results of TruSculpt® iD?

Most patients notice results 6-12 weeks after their last treatment–that’s the amount of time the body needs time to clear away the destroyed fat.

Advantages of TruSculpt® iD:

• Treatment session in as little as 15 minutes 
• No anaesthetic needed
• Non-invasive and non-surgical 
• Handheld device allows treatment in hard-to-reach areas
• Zero Downtime 
• Safe and effective 
• Minor Side Effects are Rare
• 24% fat loss
• Optimal results appear in a few weeks

Disadvantages of TruSculpt® iD

Though TruSculpt® iD destroys fat cells, new ones can develop in other areas if the patient gains weight. For this reason, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Common Areas of Treatment for TruSculpt® iD  

• Abs
• Love handles (flanks)
• Hips
• Double Chin
• Neck
• Inner and outer thighs
• Back
• Upper arms
• Butt 
• Cellulite
• Bra Fat

Benefits of TruSculpt® iD over CoolSculpting

While TruSculpt® iD and CoolSculpting are both non invasive fat reduction treatments that work by using extreme temperatures to destroy unwanted stubborn fat, there are a few advantages of TruSculpt® iD over CoolSculpting.

1. Treats Hard-to-Reach Areas: While CoolSculpting is limited to certain areas of the body due to the size of the device, truSculpt® iD treats fat anywhere on the body, even the smallest areas.
2. Tightens Skin: One of the greatest differences between CoolSculpting and TruSculpt® iD  is that TruSculpt® iD improves texture and tightens the skin, targeting cellulite and loose skin that results after dramatic weight floss.
3. Less Discomfort: Fat freezing can be very uncomfortable to certain patients, whereas TruSculpt® iD  uses heat that can be easily adjusted.

Safety and Efficacy of Current Treatment Paradigms

TruSculpt® iD

The main advantages of TruSculpt iD®  are that it requires no anaesthetic, involves no downtime, and most importantly, uses no knives or needles.

The only TGA-approved treatment that offers a non-invasive treatment option for body contouring and fat reduction, TruSculpt® iD reduces fat by up to 24% in as little as one treatment, forever eliminating fat cells from hard-to-reach areas.

Radio frequency energy emits heat through the skin targeting only the fat cells without damaging the skin in any way, making the procedure completely safe. Once destroyed, the body naturally flushes out the dead fat cells through the lymphatic system.

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting has many benefits over more invasive fat reduction procedures, like liposuction. It’s non-surgical, non-invasive, and requires no recovery time. But while there are benefits to CoolSculpting, it’s important to be aware of certain risks before considering this procedure. Minor side effects, including irritation and pain have been reported and some people have also experienced a less common side effect causing fat cells to actually grow bigger in response to the treatment instead of smaller.

Related Post: Numbers Not Adding Up After Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Treatment? 

Where to Get TruSculpt iD®

Specialist Skin Solutions in Lorn – Hunter Valley, a cosmetic clinic specialising in non-surgical aesthetic procedures, has recently incorporated the Cutera TruSculpt iD® fat reduction systems.

Related Blog Post: TruSculpt in Lorn – Hunter Valley

If you’re struggling with fat on your hips, butt, back, or belly,  you’re not alone. Thanks to TruSculpt iD®, a slimmer, sexier look can be yours in just a few minutes. If you’re ready to begin your fat reduction journey towards a more beautiful you, book an appointment today! If you have questions, call us at 02-4934-1700. 

*Disclaimer: The number of  truSculpt® iD treatments required  to achieve desired results varies and results will vary as well. This article is for informational purposes only. Like any procedure, there are risks which is why it’s important to follow your provider’s directions to the letter to stay safe and to ensure you’ll have the best results.

The post Running Hot ‘n Cold: TruSculpt iD® vs. CoolSculpting appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.

Fat cell excretion begins immediately but the process can last as long as six months. After three weeks, clients may see a significant change but depending on the part of the body being treated, optimal results can take from three to six months. The difference between a client who sees progress within a few weeks versus one who has to wait a few months to see visible results is the lymphatic system. The smoother things are running in your body’s circulatory system, the quicker the excess fluid buildup will flush from the body. The lymphatic system plays a huge role in the fat cell excretion process.

There are several things you can do to help speed up the process to get your lymphatic circulation system to work harder, faster,  and smarter, including specialised massage, eating healthy, exercising regularly, and staying hydrated. The lymphatic system doesn’t pump like the heart. The body’s movements are what help the lymph fluid work its way through the arteries and tissues to flush bacteria, viruses, cancer cells, dead cells, and other toxins. Lymphatic movement doesn’t have to be 8 hours a week on the treadmill or running a marathon.  It can be as simple as boosting your water intake, incorporating breathing techniques, and adding gentle massage into your daily routine.

Related Blog Post: Numbers Not Adding Up After Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Treatment?

Drinking Plenty of Water

Water is the one resource  that’s free, obtainable, and healthy. Drinking water after truSculpt iD treatment helps lymphatic circulation to work more effectively since more water leads to more frequent trips to the bathroom and metabolic waste—which is how those fat cells get flushed out.

Tip: Avoid detox teas, diuretics, and laxatives which can disrupt the body’s hydration and electrolyte balance. They will not speed up the removal of fat cells. They’ll only cause dehydration.

Eating a Healthy Diet

There’s no shortcut to take in the diet department. Low-fat proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy grains are your best bets, nutritionally. It’s also imperative to avoid processed foods and anything high in sugar or sodium which tend to interfere with cellular function.

Exercising Regularly

Exercise plays a critical role in increasing and maintaining fat reduction and improving overall health. Physical movement raises the heart rate and increases blood flow which supports the lymph system.

Tip: The act of sweating alone does not rid the body of toxins. The  liver and kidneys are responsible for detoxification; not your skin and sweat glands.

Related Blog Post: Comparing the Top 6 Non-Surgical Fat Reduction Treatments

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

The cardiovascular system continuously pumps blood through the body, but the lymphatic system relies on the movement of smooth muscles to transport lymphatic fluid through the lymph vessels. To speed this process along, manual lymphatic drainage massage techniques, similar to deep tissue massage, performed with light pressure, releases tension and inflammation from the muscles, and assists with lymph flow.

Below are a few at-home manual lymphatic massage techniques that can help. 

Tip: After manual lymph massage therapy,  it’s important to stay hydrated.

Chest

1. Place your palm flat on the sides of the chest, slightly above the breast.
2. Using very light pressure with sweeping motions, move your hand up the chest and over the collarbone.
3. Continue up the neck until the skin covering the chest feels tight.
4. Release.

Arms

1. Starting with the left arm, beginning at the shoulder, use your palm to stretch the skin upward.
2. Using gentle pressure, move down to the upper arm and stretch the skin up toward the shoulder.
3. Continue down the arm, always moving the skin upward and stopping at the wrist.
4. Release.
5. Repeat on right arm.

Legs/Lower Body

1. Using gentle pressure, start massaging at the top of the left leg and work down toward the feet.
2. Put one hand on the inside of the opposite thigh, near the groin, and place the other hand on the buttock.
3. Gently stretch the skin, using sweeping motions, moving the hand on the inside of the thigh toward the outside of the thigh and up. 
4. Using gentle pressure, move hands further down the the lower leg and repeat, stopping when you get to the knee.
5. Place one hand on the shin and the other hand on the back of the calf and gently stretch the skin upward.
6. Continue this motion, working down toward the ankle and top of the foot.
7. Repeat on right leg.

Fingers and toes

1. Use your thumb and index finger to guide fluid from the base of the toes toward the foot and the base of the fingers toward the palm.

Related Blog Post: TruSculpt vs. Liposuction Surgery: Which One is Right for Me?

Deep Breathing

By acting like a pump that helps move fluid through the lymph nodes, deep breathing is an essential practise for promoting relaxation and mental well-being, optimal functioning of the body’s systems, and addressing health problems. Taking purposeful and intentional deep breaths also helps to improve circulation and speed up lymphatic drainage.

By placing both hands on your stomach,  inhaling through your nose, expanding your stomach while keeping your shoulders still, then exhaling, you can stimulate the lymph nodes in your neck.

Rolling

A popular wellness trend,  rolling, which uses a foam or wooden device,  encourages lymphatic drainage by stimulating fascia,  the connective tissue that separates muscle from internal organs. Fascia also holds the lymph nodes, which filter the lymphatic system; eliminate bacteria, viruses, and cancerous cells from the body;  and may also reduce cellulite by reducing fat and speeding up metabolism.

Related: What’s the Skinny on Fat Reduction? Non-Surgical Radiofrequency Lipolysis Permanently Destroys Fat Cells for Maximum Results

TruSculpt® Non-Invasive Body Contouring

TruSculpt iD®, a non-surgical, non-surgical fat reduction procedure, uses monopolar radiofrequency energy to destroy fat cells throughout the entire fat layer, from just below the skin down to the muscle. 

How TruSculpt® Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Treatment Works

Delivering radio frequency energy through the skin, the fat cells absorb the energy in the form of heat, destroying the stubborn fat without harming the skin. Once destroyed, the body naturally takes over and flushes out the fat cells through the lymphatic system.

TruSculpt iD®  treatment commonly requires 2 sessions, 4-6 weeks apart.  Maximum results are visible after approximately 10-12 weeks, however some patients begin to see improvement after as little as 4 weeks.  Trusculpt does not remove the fat, but rather causes fat cell death.  This disruption of cells allows the fat to leak and shrink and are gradually expelled naturally by the body.  

By practising the steps outlined above, clients can help the lymphatic system to expel the fat cells faster.

Where to Get TruSculpt® Treatment Near Loom – Hunter Valley

At Specialist Skin Solutions, a clinic of medical-grade cosmetic devices and treatments, we have incorporated the Cutera truSculpt® iD system. A revolutionary, non-invasive body sculpting treatment that eliminates fat cells in the hardest-to-reach areas, truSculpt®  allows you to personalise your treatment to achieve the results you desire.  

TruSculpt®, a safe and effective technology, permanently eliminates fat cells in stubborn areas like the abdomen and flanks, upper back, inner and outer thighs, chin, & upper arms.  With truSculpt iD®, you can get the body contouring you want, even in areas that have been resistant to diet and exercise.

Our goal is to be a soft place for our clients to land. When you step inside, we provide you with a sense of calm and peace. All you have to do is sit back on one of our comfortable treatment tables and a trained professional will get to work.  In less than an hour (depending on the size of the treatment area), you will be out the door and back to your daily life. Then after  just a few short months, as the fat flushes out of your body through the lymphatic system, you will notice visible results. The beautifully defined body you’ve always wanted without hours of exercise and weeks of counting carbs can be yours.

Related Blog Post: TruSculpt in Lorn – Hunter Valley

Specialist Skin Solutions,  a cosmetic clinic specialising in non-surgical aesthetic procedures, including the latest dermal therapies, is proud to offer truSculpt® iD, the latest in state-of-the-art  fat melting, body chiseling techniques.

Because the number of  treatments varies from person to person, we create an individualised treatment plan during your initial consultation, discuss our pricing structure, and explain what you can expect during and after the procedure.

If you’re ready to begin your journey towards a slimmer, sexier, and more beautiful you, book an appointment today! If you have specific questions, call us at 02-4934-1700.  

*Disclaimer: Number of  treatments required  to achieve optimal results varies for each client. Always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider before opting for any procedure. This blog post is meant strictly for informational purposes only. Results vary. As there are risks with any procedure, be sure to follow directions from your healthcare provider to the letter.

The post How to Speed Up Your Lymphatic System Post TruSculpt Body Contouring appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.

Some of the most well-known celebrities in the world have become unrecognisable after taking extreme measures to slim down. Under extremely close scrutiny, some are praised for the healthy lifestyle changes that lead to dramatic reductions. Oftentimes, however, social media tends to focus on the dramatic, extreme, and borderline dangerous methods.  

Though some A-lister weight-loss secrets might always stay just that—a secret, here’s a look at some of the most dramatic weight loss transformations of all recent times.

Extreme Celebrity Weight Loss Transformations

First, let’s take a look at a few of the more outrageous and extreme weight-loss methods that stars have used for specific movie roles. 

Anne Hathaway Lost 11.34 kg (25 Pounds) for “ “Les Mis” Eating Oatmeal Paste

Reportedly dropping 25 pounds for her role as Fantine in “Les Miserables,” actress Anne Hathaway credits her drop in weight to a diet of  eating only two pieces of oatmeal paste a day. “I had to be obsessive about it—the idaea  was to look near death,” the actress disclosed to Vogue magazine.

While she was celebrated for her performance in the film, the star, who underwent a dangerously unhealthy diet for this weight loss, received criticism in the media.

Actor, Christian Bale Lost 22.95 kg (55-pounds) for His Role in The Machinist

Christian Bale underwent a 22.95 kg (55-pound) weight loss for his role in The Machinist, a film about a man inflicted with insomnia.

To lose the weight, Bale reportedly drank black coffee and ate one can of tuna with one apple every day. While this extreme weight loss worked,  this kind of weight loss can wreak havoc on a person’s health. In fact, “I can’t keep doing it. I really can’t,” the actor disclosed in a 2019 interview.  “My mortality is staring me in the face.”

Matthew McConaughey Lost 22.68 kg (50 pounds) Eating Tapioca Pudding

Matthew McConaughey lost 22.68 kg (50 pounds) for a role in the 2013 film, Dallas Buyers Club.  Where he played a man with HIV/AIDS in the 80s. To drop  22.68 kg (50 pounds) in just five months, McConaughey stuck to a strict diet of fish, veggies, egg whites, and tapioca pudding.

Healthy Celebrity Weight Loss Transformations

Proving that not all weight loss transformations have to come with unhealthy habits and extreme measures, there have been celebrities who have chosen to take the healthier path toward a fitter look.

Adele Dropped 44.45 kg (98 Pounds) With Healthy Lifestyle Changes

In 2020, Adele shocked the world on social media when she revealed her transformation. Reportedly dropping a whopping 98 pounds by working out regularly, eating a well-balanced diet, and getting plenty of sleep, the grammy-winning singer isn’t only A-lister who has left jaws dropping in recent years with incredible weight loss metamorphosis.

John Goodman Lost 68.04 kg (150 Pounds) With Mediterranean Diet

Roseanne star, John Goodman, lost 150 pounds by sticking to the Mediterranean diet and cutting down red meat. Goodman also credits the weight loss to focusing on portion control.

How Khloe Kardashian Really the Weight

Khloe Kardashian, who was over 90 kg (200 pounds when she gave birth to her daughter, dropped over 60-pounds after giving birth to daughter, True Thompson in 2018. revealed that she recently reached her goal weight of 68.04 kg (150 pounds.)

Despite the media blasting over-the-top posts about how  the star lost weight, Khloe is adamant that she “credits her weight loss to a healthy diet and spending many hours at the gym”. 

The 35 year-old claims that she “started going to the gym for (her) mental health.”

 “The only place to really be alone was to be on an elliptical with headphones and kinda just vibing out.” 

“When you start putting yourself first, you start feeling so much better.”

Rapper Action Bronson Lost 57.61 kg (127 Pounds) Making Healthy Changes

Most famous for his music career, Rapper, Action Bronson, who also hosted a show  “F—, That’s Delicious,” decided to change his ways after the birth of his son in 2019.

In a 2020  Men’s Health interview, the rapper disclosed “if I made something that was a big, round dish, I would eat the big, round dish. I wouldn’t just have one piece.”  He added, “There was a lot of s— like pre-diabetes, eczema, asthma, all kinds of (dumb stuff) that I had given myself.”

It was the birth of his son in 2019 that prompted the rapper to begin taking health more seriously, starting a workout routine, which included boxing, medicine balls, and burpees. 
“This journey started way long ago,” Bronson told Men’s Health. “I was born heavy. I was a heavy child. This transformation was long overdue.”

Christina Aguilera Lost 22.68 kg (50 pounds) Focusing of “Self”

Singer, Christina Aguilera,  revealed that when she was not able to prioritise herself, she gained weight.

Giving herself time for herself and her son, Agueilera told Us Weekly in 2013. that “being able to breathe and have time away from the camera and getting to the nitty-gritty of all things real and personal [allowed her to come] back refreshed.”  The singer admitted that when she started to take time to focus on herself and “started eating salads, shrimp, celery, and blueberries,” she lost 50 pounds.

Rebel Wilson Lost 18.14 kg (40 pounds) Focusing on a “Year of Health”

By taking the “holistic approach” by focusing on her mental health and tackling emotional eating, in 2020, Rebel Wilson went on “The Drew Barrymore Show” and announced she had lost 40 pounds.

“I never really focused on my health, which was probably obvious. I was (eating a ton of sugar.) That was kind of my vice.”

“For the last few years, I’ve been theme-ing my years. So I had the ‘Year of Fun,’ the ‘Year of Love,’ and this year, the ‘Year of Health’ because I turned 40.”

Jessica Simpson Lost 45.36 kg (100 Pounds) After Giving Birth to Her Third Baby

After the birth of her third child,  Jessica Simpson reported that she weighed 240 pounds. But in 2019, the celeb announced that she had lost 100 pounds by focusing on exercise, walking 14,000 steps every day, working out in the gym, and getting seven hours of sleep every night.

In a 2019 Instagram post, the actress revealed, “even when it felt impossible, I chose to work harder.”

Zoe Kravitz Lost Weight With an “Extreme Cleanse”

In 2015, Zoe Kravitz played the role of someone who is bulimic and anorexic for a film called “The Road Within.” The star had to lose weight for the role, which she did with an extreme cleanse.

“I did a cleanse,” she said in an interview with Us Weekly. “I tried to do it the healthiest way possible, even though it’s not healthy to do. I ended up drinking clay, because it cleans out your body and fills you up. I was eating like a Mason jar of pureed vegetables a day and running.”

Shonda Rhimes Lost 68.04 kg (150 Pounds) and Admits She “Hated Every Single Second”

An A-lister behind successful series like “Grey’s Anatomy ” and “Scandal” reported that she “only ate when she was hungry, drank a lot of water, and hired a personal trainer for her weight -loss transformation. Dropping 150 pounds, Rhimes admitted in a 2017 newsletter that “losing weight is not a topic I like discussing because there is nothing fun or interesting or great about it.” Later disclosing that she “hated every single second of it,” Rhimes added that she “hates every single second of maintaining too.”

Sam Smith Lost 22 kg (50 pounds) With Nutritional Therapy

Admitting that they struggled with emotional eating, Grammy Award-winning Sam Smith explained that they used to eat whenever they felt lonely or felt like an outcast at school. A few years ago, Smith decided to change that habit when they met a nutritional therapist.

“I met a woman who has completely changed my life,” they wrote on Instagram. “Amelia Freer has helped me lose over a stone in two weeks and has completely transformed my relationship with food.”

Since then, they have lost 50 pounds.

Chris Pratt Lost 27.22 kg (60 Pounds) for Role in Marvel Movie Working Out 4 Hours a Day

After reaching success as Andy on “Parks and Recreation,” Chris Pratt was ready to become a movie star in 2013 when he joined the Marvel universe in “Guardians of The Galaxy.” For the role, he lost 27.22 kg (60 pounds) by increasing his calorie intake to 4,000 and drinking a lot of water.

“I was peeing all day long, every day,” the actor told Men’s Health.  

When it came to working out, Pratt focused on running, swimming, and kickboxing for three to four hours each day.

Jennifer Hudson Lost 36.29 kg (80 pounds) with Weight Watchers and Cooking Meals at Home

Rising to fame on “American Idol,” Jennifer Hudson really jumped into the spotlight when she starred in “Dreamgirls” and won an Academy Award for her role in 2007. Then four years later, Hudson made headlines with her huge weight transformation.

Dropping over 36kg (80 pounds) and going from a size 16 to a size 6, Hudson, who partnered with Weight Watchers, began to “cook all (her) meals at home.”

“When I work out, I like what I do. It’s all about self-motivation because, at the end of the day, you can have all the trainers and all the money in the world, but if you don’t have that mindset, it’s not possible.”

Since then, Hudson has managed to keep the weight off by eating fruit, yogurt, grilled chicken, and a small piece of chocolate every now and then.

Drew Carey Changed His Relationship With Food

Known for hosting “The Price is Right,” Drew Carey said he developed some bad habits while doing the show.

“I was eating a lot of garbage (and) I was drinking a lot, so I had a lot of mood swings,” Carey told Success in 2015.

Carey said he decided to focus on his health and to “change my whole belief system” when it came to eating.

“It wasn’t like, ‘Eat this for 90 days and lose 20 pounds.’ It was: ‘Eat like this for the rest of your life.'”

He also cut out alcohol from his diet.

Amy Schumer Honest About Ozempic 

“During an appearance on “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen” in June 2023, Amy Schumer said she was on Ozempic “like a year ago.”

She said she lost weight but it made her so sick that she couldn’t play ball with her then 3-year-old son, Gene.

“You’re like, ‘OK, this isn’t livable for me,’ but I immediately invested because I’m like, ‘Everyone and their mom is gonna try it,'” she said.

Schumer criticises celebrities who aren’t honest about taking weight-loss drugs.

“Everybody (is) lying, everyone’s like, ‘Oh, smaller portions,’ like shut the “F”  up, you’re on Ozempic or one of those things,” she said. “Just be real with the people.”

See our upcoming blog post that dives into some celebrities who’ve taken it, went off of it, and most of all, denied using it.

Takeaway

Celebrities are just like everybody else. They have the same sense of insecurities, body image issues, and difficulties with losing weight. The big difference between these stars and the rest of us is that their struggles happen in front of the eyes of the world with embarrassing before and after pictures popping up all over social media and those sensationalistic rags in supermarket lines. 

When it comes right down to it, we’re all human and they deserve to be given the same credit and understanding as the rest of us. When it comes to losing weight, the most important thing to remember is that beauty is only skin deep and true beauty lies within us all.

The post Extreme Measures: Dramatic Celebrity Weight Loss Transformations appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.

If you are thinking about non-invasive fat reduction, it’s important to educate yourself about all of the possible risks before booking an appointment. Like all body contouring procedures, there are some known risks. This post covers all the most common side effects of Coolsculpting and truSculpt® iD, along with some of the less common and rarer risks. 

To learn more about truSculpt® iD body sculpting treatment, click here.

Common Risks of CoolSculpting

• Skin Irritation
• Redness
• Pain
• Stinging
• Numbness
• Bruising

Rare Risks of CoolSculpting

Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH)

Though CoolSculpting is extremely safe, a side effect known as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) is possible in very rare cases. PAH is a cosmetic defect that causes a hardened area of fat, thøugh this side effect is not dangerous to the patient. 

Additional Risk of CoolSculpting

• Hyperpigmentation
• Prolonged pain or discomfort beyond two weeks,
• Dryness of the mouth
• Reduced tongue and lip movement

Downtime After CoolSculpting

With CoolSculpting there is no downtime. It is an outpatient procedure, and patients can usually return to work and normal activities can be resumed immediately following the procedure.

Is CoolSculpting Safe?

According to the TGA, CoolSculpting is a safe procedure with no known major health risks. Most of CoolSculpting side effects are cosmetic and usually disappear on their own within a few days to two weeks of treatment. Compared to other body contouring methods, CoolSculpting  carries one of the lowest risks for side effects.

Benefits of truSculpt® iD over CoolSculpting

Both truSculpt® iD and CoolSculpting are non-invasive fat removal treatments but there are a few differences between the two treatments.

1) truSculpt® iD Treats All Areas of Fat: While CoolSculpting and other contouring procedures are limited to certain areas of the body, truSculpt® iD has the capability of treating fat cells in stubborn areas, even the smallest area of fat, with success. Maximum results are visible in the treatment location after just one treatment. Depending on fat thickness, however, additional treatments may be required to remove an entire fat layer and achieve the personalised results you desire.

2) Tightens Skin: One of the differences between the two treatments is that truSculpt® iD provides skin tightening, body definition, and textural improvement to the area being treated. The skin tightening is a secondary benefit to target cellulite and loose skin that results after weight fluctuations and pregnancy.  

3) Permanently Destroys Fat Cells: truSculpt® iD doesn’t immediately eliminate the treated fat cells; it permanently destroys them. Once treated with innovative monopolar rf technology radio frequency energy, the fat cells of the body are flushed out.  

As long as the patient maintains a healthy eating and fitness regime after truSculpt® iD treatment,  results will last for the long term.  

Most people see results within 3–7 weeks and see maximum results within three months. If there’s an inch or less of fat, sufficient results will be seen after one treatment. To address more than that,  multiple treatments are suggested. 

Downtime after truSculpt® iD

Feeling like a hot stone massage, the truSculpt® iD system is safe, comfortable, and non-invasive, allowing patients to resume normal activities immediately.  

Side Effects of truSculpt® iD

One of the benefits of truSculpt® iD is that there are few if any, side effects related to the procedure. Some minor side effects include:

• Redness
• Sweating
• Mild tenderness in the treated areas

Is the Pain After truSculpt® iD?

truSculpt® iD uses innovative Monopolar of technology to target fat cells selectively. Using a handpiece that emits the radio frequency energy, the device is placed over the targeted area, while pulses of energy cause fat cells to heat up and shrink, promoting skin contraction for a slimming and smoothing effect. Easily adjusted to conform to each patient’s needs, the level of heat can be adapted, so each person feels comfortable and experiences only minimal discomfort in the treatment area.

Is truSculpt® iD  Safe?

One of the main advantages of truSculpt® iD over other body sculpting procedures is that it is a simple and comfortable procedure, requiring no anaesthetic, no downtime, and maybe most importantly, no knives or needles!

truSculpt® iD is a non-invasive,  clinically proven, highly effective, and completely safe treatment that permanently eliminates fat cells from even hard-to-reach areas. truSculpt® iD is the only TGA-approved device of its kind that offers a non-invasive treatment option for body sculpting and fat reduction.  It has been clinically proven to permanently reduce fat by up to 24% in as little as one treatment.

By delivering radio frequency energy through the skin, fat cells absorb the energy in the form of heat, effectively destroying the unsightly body fat without harming the skin at all. Once destroyed, the body naturally takes over and flushes out the old fat cells through the lymphatic system.

How Long Does It Take To See Results of truSculpt® iD?

The procedure takes just a few minutes, and patients can expect to see full results 6-12 weeks after their last treatment–that’s the amount of time the body needs time to clear away the destroyed fat.

With truSculpt® iD, patients can get the slimmer shape they desire, even in areas that have been resistant to diet and exercise, like the abs and the hips.

Advantages of truSculpt® iD:

• Treatment time in as little as 15 minutes
• No anaesthetic needed
• Non-invasive and non-surgical
• No Visible Downtime
• Safe and effective
• Minimal discomfort
• Minor Side Effects are Rare
• 24% fat reduction

Common Areas of Treatment for truSculpt® iD

Thanks to the size and number of handpieces, truSculpt® iD can address a variety of concerns and target hard-to-reach areas of the body and face including the neck, arms, inner thighs, back, and chin.

Common concerns addressed by truSculpt® iD: 

• Abdomen and flanks
• Hips
• Chin
• Neck
• Inner and outer thighs
• Back
• Upper arms
• Butt 

Where Can I Get the truSculpt® iD Procedure?

At Specialist Skin Solutions, a cosmetic clinic specialising in non-surgical, anti-ageing aesthetic procedures, including the latest laser techniques, dermal therapies, and anti-wrinkle injections, we proudly offer truSculpt® iD, the latest in state-of-the-art body fat melting devices that slims and trims without needles or knives. 

If you’re struggling with fat on your hips, butt, back, or belly,  you’re not alone. Thanks to truSculpt® iD a slimmer, sexier look can be yours in just a few minutes. We invite you to give us a call to set up a consultation.  Once we have an idea of the problem and your goals, we’ll come up with an appropriate treatment plan that works for you.

Because the procedure is non-invasive, there’s no pain, downtime or recovery period. You simply come in, sit back, and let us work our magic. Then you can get on with the rest of your day as if nothing has happened.

At Specialist Skin Solutions, we believe in transparency and education, providing every client with information, education, and treatment options before every procedure. Offering a thorough consultation prior to treatment, we’ll discuss the areas of concern and the range of treatment options suggested to produce optimal results.

Because the number of truSculpt® iD treatments varies from person to person, we’ll create an individualised treatment plan, discuss our pricing structure, and explain in detail what you can expect both during and after the procedure.

If you’re ready to be rid of excess body fat forever, book an appointment with us today! Specialist Skin Solutions is proud to have incorporated the Cutera truSculpt® iD into our clinic of medical-grade cosmetic devices.

At Specialist Skin Solutions, we’re dedicated to helping each one of our clients feel their best by bringing out their natural beauty and loving the skin they’re in at any age. We look forward to speaking with you!

If you have specific questions, call us at 02-4934-1700.  

*Disclaimer: truSculpt® iD results vary.  There are risks with any procedure.

The post Side Effects of truSculpt® iD and CoolSculpting Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Treatments appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.

Managing Weight During Pregnancy

Women who have struggled with their weight in the past, may find it hard to accept that it is natural to gain weight during pregnancy. But it is normal to feel anxious as the numbers on the scale go up. 

But all women need to gain weight for a healthy pregnancy. The extra pounds will come off after you have had your baby. However, if you gain a lot more weight than is recommended, your baby will also be bigger. That can sometimes lead to problems with delivery. A healthy diet and regular exercise are your best ways to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.

What Causes Pregnancy Weight Gain?

Most of the weight gained during pregnancy is not fat, but is related to the baby. Here is a breakdown of how 16 kilograms adds up:

• Baby: 3.5 kilograms 
• Placenta:1 to 1.5 kilograms 
• Amniotic fluid: 1 to 1.5 kilograms 
• Breast tissue: 1 to 1.5 kilograms 
• Blood supply: 2 kilograms
• Fat stores: 2.5 to 4 kilograms 
• Uterus growth: 1 to 2.5 kilograms

Some women are already overweight when they get pregnant, while others gain weight too quickly during their pregnancy. Regardless, pregnant women should not diet or try to lose weight during pregnancy. But eating a balanced diet is a great way to stay healthy for yourself and your baby.

Healthy food choices to maintain a healthy weight:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables 
• Breads, crackers, and cereals made with whole grains.
• 4 servings of dairy products every day. 

Foods to avoid to gain too much weight:

• Foods and drinks with added sugar or artificial sweeteners
• Food and drinks that list sugar or corn syrup as one of the first ingredients are not good choices
• Sweetened juice and soft drinks
• Junk-food snacks, such as chips, candy, cake, cookies, and ice cream.

While it’s perfectly natural for expectant moms to gain weight during pregnancy, dropping the kilos during the postpartum period can be tough.  With successive pregnancies, the percentage of body fat grows, especially in the hips, butt, thighs and abs, and losing the weight can get even more challenging. Factors like the stress of caring for a newborn, sleep deprivation, poor dietary habits, lack of exercise, and normal ageing during the postpartum period can not only cause fat to accumulate but it can also lead to tired-looking skin.

While losing weight is certainly doable with a sensible diet and regular exercise, certain areas of the body are more resistant to fat reduction even with the most rigorous fitness and nutritional programmes. Extreme dieting can lead to malnutri†ion and musculoskeletal issues. This becomes exponentially challenging when one is breastfeeding.

Fat Reduction Options for Postpartum Pooch

Pregnancy can be a magical experience, resulting in a beautiful bond between mother and child unlike any experience in a woman’s life. While this incomparable connection and love continues far beyond the birth, many women discover that their otherwise wonderful pregnancy has left them with a lot more fat and much more kilos than their pre pregnancy weight. Carrying, delivering, and breastfeeding can all take a toll on a woman’s body, and women are often left with a “pooch” in their lower abs that no amount of diet or exercise can remedy.

No matter how much diet and exercise a patient tries, this extra skin and fat can affect a new mum’s entire figure and damage her self-esteem. If a woman that is breastfeeding isn’t looking or feeling her best, it could impact the baby’s health. There is good news, however. Even the most stubborn pockets of fat and sagging skin can be treated cosmetically with a body sculpting treatment. There are several techniques designed to return a body to its pre-pregnancy weight, from clinically proven, non-surgical treatments that permanently eliminate fat cells to surgical procedures that can remove an entire fat layer in just one treatment.

Though all of these treatments will improve body definition and selectively target fat, it is important to remember that while they will get rid of fatty tissue, the remaining fat cells can still increase in size with additional weight gain. That’s why it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle diet and continue with physical activity.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) 

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that provides long-lasting results by targeting skin and muscle laxity by removing excess fat, trimming extra skin, and repairing separated abdominal muscles. Whether to choose this option depends on how much weight you’ve lost and whether you have a lot of excess skin that won’t go away no matter how hard you try.

Pros

• Smooths the entire abdomen by trimming excess skin, reducing fat deposits, and tightening lax muscles
• Specifically targets the lower abdomen with a single incision along the bikini line
• Results are immediate after just one treatment

Cons

• Requires anesthesia which can involve risks and complications such as excessive bleeding, swelling, and infection
• Scar runs from hip to hip bone under the bikini line that typically fades over time
• Extensive downtime. Recovery involves at least one to two weeks off from work and refraining from exercise and heavy lifting for four to six weeks
• Painful, usually requires pain medication

Liposuction

Liposuction is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries, with over 200,000 procedures performed every year. Liposuction uses hollow tubes inserted through small incisions in the abdominal area to loosen unwanted fat before suctioning it out. Candidates for liposuction should be within 30 pounds of their ideal weight with firm and elastic skin. This is performed under general anesthesia to guarantee a painless procedure with long-lasting results.

Pros

• Removes larger amounts of fat deposits than non-surgical procedures like TruSculpt
• Targets specific trouble areas like the abdomen, thighs, arms, chest, back, and neck
• Uses small incisions in the treatment location
• Permanently removes fat

Cons

• Not intended for patients with skin laxity
• Incisions result in scarring 
• Recovery may involve one week off from work and four weeks refraining from exercise
• Risk of bruising, bleeding, and infection

TruSculpt iD®

Fat reduction treatment of fat in a specific area of the body is now possible without the risks involved with other contouring procedures like abdominoplasty and liposuction surgery.  TruSculpt iD® is a non-invasive body sculpting treatment that utilises  monopolar radiofrequency energy to heat fat tissues. Patients experience not only a reduction in fat but also tighter skin after the treatment.  

TruSculpt iD® heats fat cells, permanently destroying them,  and flushes them out of the body, resulting in a firmer and sleeker silhouette. By damaging the fat cells while leaving the healthy tissue alone, the damaged fat cells exit the body naturally. This procedure provides long-lasting results in the abdomen and flanks, with little risks, zero downtime, and no mild to no pain.  

Pros

• Sessions are quick and easy
• Comfortable skin temperature -feels like a hot stone massage
• Patients can be in and out in less than one hour depending on the number of treatment areas and fat thickness.
• Optimal results are visible after one to two treatments.
• Minimal to no downtime – normal activities can be resumed immediately
• Minimal risks and side effects
• Non-surgical, non-invasive procedure; no knives, needles, or scarring
• Minimal discomfort
• Treats hard-to-reach areas
• 24% gradual reduction of stubborn fat over 12 weeks

Cons

• Provides only subtle results;  more ideal for those within or very close to their goal weight than those with a lot of weight to lose
• Results may take up to 12 weeks to show.
• Additional treatments might be needed

Pregnancy can be the most wonderful time in a new mother’s life, but carrying a baby for 9 months can wreak havoc on a woman’s body. Though surgical contouring procedures that have been around for decades are always an option, it is now possible to return to your ideal body image with non-surgical treatments like TruSculpt iD that use of technology to selectively target stubborn fat pockets and achieve maximum results without any downtime or scars, with minimal discomfort, so normal activities can be resumed immediately.

Though there are pros and cons with each procedure, TruSculpt allows you to get right back to the best job of all—being a mum!

*Disclaimer: The number of treatments required to achieve maximum results may vary. Always seek medical advice and clearance before opting for any procedure, especially while breastfeeding. This article is meant strictly for informational purposes only. truSculpt® iD results vary. There are risks with any procedure. Follow your provider’s directions to the letter to stay safe and to ensure you’ll have the best results.

The post Mommy Makeover: Non-Surgical Fat Reduction Options for Postpartum Body Transformation  appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.

Lipolysis: lipo = fat cells + lysis = cell death.

Radiofrequency Lipolysis

Radiofrequency lipolysis is one of the newest non-surgical fat reduction techniques in the cosmetic procedure field. Using radio frequency to heat body fat, radiofrequency lipolysis uses a flat instruments placed just above the skin which emit radiofrequency energy to heat tissue to the point of apoptosis, or cell death. With no direct contact with the skin, the applicator heats from a distance of one centimetre away so fat cells are preferentially heated without impacting any other cells in the skin. 

This method requires no anaesthesia or incisions, which reduces the side effects and risks. Another promising feature of radiofrequency-based fat procedures is that in addition to permanently eliminating fat cells, they also stimulate the production of collagen, essential for skin tightening and rejuvenating, giving the skin an overall healthier look. One of the newest, most effective, and popular non-invasive radiofrequency fat procedures is TruSculpt.

People who want to reduce a localised fat bulge that has persisted despite diet and exercise may benefit from radiofrequency lipolysis. The goal of radiofrequency lipolysis is to reduce the volume of fat in a targeted fatty area. More than one area can be treated at a time. To achieve maximum desired results, most clients require three to four treatments. 

How Radiofrequency Lipolysis Works 

The patient is asked to recline in a chair. Once comfortable, the procedure begins with the provider placing the instrument about one centimetre from the surface of the skin. The fat cells are targeted and heated without damaging any other cells. 

The death of the fat cells is induced by minute-long exposure to temperatures between 43C and 45C degrees. The body naturally flushes these cells out by way of the lymphatic system over a period of 4 to 6 weeks. 

Side Effects of Radiofrequency Lipolysis

Though rare, some radiofrequency lipolysis clients have reported mild erythema, abnormal redness of skin or mucous membranes caused by capillary congestion. Often mistaken for psoriasis because it has similar characteristics, red splotches on the hands or feet are classic examples of this mild condition. These side effects are quite mild and short-lasting.

Does radiofrequency lipolysis require anaesthesia?

This procedure is done without anaesthesia.

How Many Sessions of Radiofrequency Lipolysis are Required?

A majority of clients undergo between four and six sessions to treat one area. These treatments, which let from 15 minutes to up to one hour, depending on the treatment, should be spaced apart by roughly one week, a much shorter wait period compared with other fat reduction procedures.

Recovery From Radiofrequency Lipolysis

One of the most significant advantages of radiofrequency lipolysis is the fact that the recovery time is basically non-existent. Patients can expect to walk out of a session with no activity restrictions or downtime, thus the treatment can be performed at any time of the day. 

How Long Does it Take to See Results From Radiofrequency Lipolysis?

Though there is no visible downtime, it does take about five to six weeks for maximum results to be evident. Multiple sessions will likely be done before you see results. Repetition of the procedure will accelerate the process and help the patient realise fuller and more effective results.

What Types of Radiofrequency Lipolysis Treatments Are Available? 

There are a variety of non invasive body contouring treatments on the market, with some that work by freezing the fat in the treatment areas and others that therapeutically heat it to increase body definition. Some treatments work by liquifying the cells inside the fat while others destroy the entire fat cell altogether. Below are three common contouring procedures, all of which involve some kind of therapeutic temperature change to create maximum

Zerona

This technology, which has been approved since 2010, uses a precise technique, called low-level laser therapy, which singles out the content inside the fat cells and liquefies them. The fat cells themselves remain but become hollow; all the material removed is later flushed from the system naturally.

Zerona is a cold laser treatment but does not drop to temperatures as low as CoolSculpting, which at points can be so cold it is uncomfortable. The best areas to treat with this technology are the abdomen, thighs, back, arms, neck, knees, and love handles.

SculpSure

SculpSure is also a noninvasive fat-reduction procedure that uses lasers to target fat cells and heat them until the structure collapses. As with other noninvasive procedures, the SculpSure machine may cause minor discomfort but in general, will not cause significant pain. . Sessions last 25 to 30 minutes and can result in a 24% reduction of fat in the treated area.

TruSculpt 

One of the most effective and popular radiofrequency lipolysis products on the market is TruSculpt, a noninvasive, TGA-approved procedure using therapeutic heat that can be safely used on the abdomen and flanks, love handles, arms, neck, inner and outer thighs, and back. TruSculpt treatment will prompt a 24% reduction of fat in the treatment area after just one treatment and sessions are only 15 minutes long. The main difference, aside from the shorter session times, is that TruSculpt uses radiofrequency energy emitted through hand-held devices to heat up and destroy fat cells, not just cause them to empty their contents. Programmed cell death means the fat will never return to the treatment location.

Benefits of TruSculpt Treatment

• Risks are minimal 
• Treats unwanted fat cells permanently
• Minimal discomfort
• Works on localed fatty areas
• Targets fat cells without disrupting other skin cells or structures
• No anaesthesia required
• 15 minute treatment time – faster than other contouring procedures
• Comfortable skin temperature
• No visible downtime
• Normal activities may be resumed immediately
• Ok to exercise immediately following treatment
• Works on all skin types
• Maximum results in just a few weeks
• Can be performed on one or multiple areas

Are Results From TruSculpt Treatments Permanent?

One of the most significant benefits of TruSculpt is that the results are permanent in the treatment location. That means the fat cells eliminated in a specific area will never grow back, giving you the personalised results you desire. Of course if a patient gains significant weight following the procedure, fat can come back in other areas of the body. The one problem is that new fat looks for active cells to attach themselves to, so significant weight gain could result in uneven, bumpy areas. The best way to avoid this is to eat a healthy diet, get plenty of exercise, and maintain a healthy weight after the procedure. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for TruSculpt?

The best candidates for this treatment are those who have tried diet and exercise but have localised fatty areas on the body that resist those efforts. This includes patients who need a little help pushing past a plateau and getting rid of stubborn spots. This treatment is also a great option for patients who are concerned about loose, sagging skin, particularly after the fat has been removed. Good candidates for TruSculpt include: 

• Patients in Good Health
• Patients That Are Able to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
• People Who Eat a Healthy Diet
• People That Are Realistic About the Outcome

Who is NOT a Good Candidate for Radiofrequency Lipolysis?

• People with loose skin or poor tone may not be suitable candidates for the procedure.
• Patients in Poor Health
• Patients Who Cannot Maintain a Healthy Weight
• People Who Have Unrealistic Ideas About the Results

How Can I Tell Which Treatment Is Best for Me?

With so many options now available, it can be difficult to decide which is the best for you. Fortunately, this is not a decision you have to make alone. If you’re interested in non-invasive fat reduction but aren’t sure which procedure is best for you or if you simply have concerns that you’d like to discuss, the best thing to do is book a consultation with our office.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re just a few spots away from achieving your ideal body using a tailored treatment that will help you achieve the personalised results you’ve always dreamed of, Specialist Skin Solutions is proud to have incorporated the Cutera truSculpt® iD into our clinic of medical grade cosmetic devices. When you book an appointment, we’ll design a treatment plan for you that draws on innovative TGA-approved medical solutions and gives you the fit, healthy, youthful-looking appearance you’ve been working toward. Call Specialist Skin Solutions to schedule a consultation today.

Disclaimer: Though results can be seen about 4-6 weeks after your first treatment, additional treatments may be required.  

The post What’s the Skinny on Fat Reduction? Non-Surgical Radiofrequency Lipolysis Permanently Destroys Fat Cells for Maximum Results appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.

They say two is better than one, but when it comes to chins, no one wants to double down.  If you’re ready to ditch your double chin, truSculpt®iD,  a non-surgical procedure that eliminates fat and contours the jawline, can give you that chiseled chin you’ve been longing for once and for all. 

There are many factors that contribute to a double chin, not the least of which is age. As you grow older, the collagen production in your skin naturally begins to decline. Since collagen is responsible for the tone and elasticity of your skin, the effects are varied. From ravaging wrinkles to sagging cheeks, your skin begins to loosen, resulting in a double chin.

Until now, tackling a double chin has been an exercise in futility since the factors that lead to a double chin — genetics, gravity, and the loss of supporting fibers — are tough enemies to combat.

Tricks for Reducing Chin and Jawline Fat – Do They Work?

While it’s true that if you don’t exercise the muscles below the neck, they’ll become weak and flabby, can exercise really cure the downward drift? There have been a wide variety of silly exercises touted as cures for the double chin over the years. From facial yoga to whistling to the sky, chewing gum, and the Lion’s Yawn (above,) while these tricks might work when done over and over and over again, the reality is no one has the time, patience, or stamina to do enough to really make a difference. 

Then there’s weight loss. Sure, purging extra pounds can reduce the fat in your face, but the truth is, even if you do lose weight, it still might not eliminate your double chin.      

Then, there’s surgery. Painful, expensive, and intrusive to everyday life, going under the knife isn’t the answer for most people.

Chin up

But there’s good news! With truSculpt® iD, the latest non-surgical, non-invasive, clinically proven, and TGA-approved treatment for eliminating the dreaded double chin, a quick 15-minute procedure done out of the hospital is a simple solution to losing the double chin forever! 

That’s because with truSculpt iD, a painless procedure performed in an experienced and reputable provider’s office, fat simply melts away, leaving you with a sexy neckline, a sculpted jaw, and a chiseled chin without surgery, silly stunts, or fat-loss fads.

What is truSculpt® iD? 

truSculpt® iD uses Monopolar Radio Frequency technology to target fat cells selectively. Using a handpiece that emits the radio frequency energy, the device is placed over the targeted area, while pulses of energy cause fat cells to heat up and shrink, promoting skin contraction for a slimming and smoothing effect. Easily adjusted to conform to each patient’s needs, the level of heat can be adapted, so each person feels comfortable and experiences very little to no pain.

truSculpt® iD is a non-invasive,  clinically proven, highly effective, and completely safe treatment that permanently eliminates fat cells from even the hardest-to-reach areas. truSculpt® iDis the only TGA-approved device of its kind that offers a non-invasive treatment option for body sculpting and fat reduction.  It has been clinically proven to permanently reduce fat by up to 24% in as little as one treatment.

By delivering radio frequency energy through the skin, fat cells absorb the energy in the form of heat, effectively destroying the unsightly fat without harming the skin at all. Once destroyed, the body naturally takes over and flushes out the old fat cells through the lymphatic system.

The procedure takes just a few minutes, and you can expect to see full results 6-12 weeks after your last treatment–that’s the amount of time  your body needs time to clear away the destroyed fat. 

With truSculpt® iD, patients can get the definition they desire, even in areas that have been resistant to diet and exercise, like the chin and jaw. One of the main advantages of truSculpt® iD is that it is a simple and comfortable procedure, requiring no anesthetic, no downtime, and maybe most importantly, no knives or needles!

Common Areas of Treatment

Thanks to the size and number of handpieces,   truSculpt® iD can address a variety of concerns and target hard-to-reach areas of the face and body, including the jaw, chin, neck, arms, inner thighs, and back regardless of loose skin or skin laxity. 

Common concerns addressed by truSculpt® iD: 

• Double chin
• Belly fat
• Love handles (flanks)
• Inner and outer thigh fat
• Back fat
• Wobbly upper arms
• Butt fat

Ready to Stop Seeing Double? 

If you’re struggling with fat beneath the jaw or around the neckline, you’re not alone, but thanks to truSculpt® iD, a sexier look can be yours in just a few minutes. The number of truSculpt® iD treatments required to eliminate a double chin varies from person to person. That’s why we invite you to give us a call to set up a consultation.  Once we have an idea of the problem and your goals, we’ll come up with an appropriate treatment plan that works for you. 

Because the procedure is non-invasive, there’s no downtime or recovery period. You simply come in, sit back, and let us work our magic. Then you can get on with the rest of your day as if nothing has happened.

At Specialist Skin Solutions,  a cosmetic clinic specialising in non-surgical, anti-aging aesthetic procedures, including the latest laser techniques and dermal therapies, we proudly offer truSculpt® iD, the latest in state-of-the-art  fat melting,  chin chiseling techniques. 

We believe in transparency and education first and foremost, providing every client with information, explanations, and treatment options before performing any procedure.  Offering a thorough consultation prior to treatment, we’ll discuss the areas of concern and the range of treatment options suggested to produce optimal results.  And because the number of  truSculpt® iD treatments varies from person to person, we’ll create an individualized treatment plan, discuss our pricing structure, and explain in detail what you can expect both during and after the procedure.

So, if you’re sick of seeing double when you look in the mirror, book an appointment with us today! At Specialist Skin Solutions, we’re dedicated to helping each one of our clients feel their best by bringing out their natural beauty and loving the skin they’re in at any age. We look forward to speaking with you!

If you have specific questions, call us at 02-4934-1700.

*Disclaimer: truSculpt® iD results vary.  There are risks with any procedure.

The post Chin Up! truSculpt® iD Melts Fat, Sculpts Jawline for a Chiseled Chin with No Knives or Needles Needed appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.

In 2000, over 350,000 Americans underwent liposuction, making it the most popular cosmetic surgery that year. But last year that number dropped dramatically, to just over 200,000.

While it seems that our population is getting heavier,  the number of people undergoing liposuction is getting smaller.

One reason for the decrease in fat-removing surgical procedures is the emergence of TGA-approved devices that eliminate body fat without diet, exercise, or surgery. 

Non-invasive, non-surgical truSculpt® iD is the latest fat reduction treatment that permanently eliminates up to 24% of unwanted fat with no pain, zero downtime, and no knives or needles needed.

History of Non-surgical Fat-Removal Procedures

In 2010, the first approved device, Zerona, was cleared for non-surgical fat reduction. While this treatment was shown to be effective when combined with dietary changes, exercise, and supplements, the ability to control the exact location of the fat was minimal.

The next non-surgical fat-removing device to receive clearance, Zeltiq, was cleared a month later. This device reduced the thickness of fat by aggressively cooling it. Although Zeltiq was effective, the large treatment head only allowed spot removal from a few areas, such as the hips and abdomen.

This brings us to truSculpt® iD, the latest non-surgical, non-invasive, clinically proven, and TGA-approved treatment for eliminating fat. This quick 15-minute procedure, done out of the hospital,  is a simple solution to losing belly, back, hips, arm, or thigh fat forever! 

With truSculpt iD, a painless procedure performed by an experienced and reputable provider, fat melts away, leaving you with a smaller waistline, thinner thighs, and sexier arms without painful surgery, rigorous exercise, or endless fat-loss fads.

What is truSculpt® iD? 

TruSculpt® iD uses Monopolar Radio Frequency technology to target fat cells selectively. Using a handpiece that emits the radio frequency energy, the device is placed over the targeted area, while pulses of energy cause fat cells to heat up and shrink, promoting skin contraction for a slimming and smoothing effect. Easily adjusted to conform to each patient’s needs, the level of heat can be adapted, so each person feels comfortable and experiences very little to no pain.

TruSculpt® iD is a non-invasive,  clinically proven, highly effective, and completely safe treatment that permanently eliminates fat cells from even hard-to-reach areas. truSculpt® iD is the only TGA-approved device of its kind that offers a non-invasive treatment option for body sculpting and fat reduction.  It has been clinically proven to permanently reduce fat by up to 24% in as little as one treatment.

By delivering radio frequency energy through the skin, fat cells absorb the energy in the form of heat, effectively destroying the unsightly body fat without harming the skin at all. Once destroyed, the body naturally takes over and flushes out the old fat cells through the lymphatic system.

The procedure takes just a few minutes, and you can expect to see full results 6-12 weeks after your last treatment–that’s the amount of time your body needs time to clear away the destroyed fat.With truSculpt® iD, patients can get the slimmer shape they desire, even in areas that have been resistant to diet and exercise, like the abs and the hips. One of the main advantages of truSculpt® iD is that it is a simple and comfortable procedure, requiring no anaesthetic, no downtime, and maybe most importantly, no knives or needles!

Advantages of truSculpt® iD:

• Treatment time in as little as 15 minutes 
• No anaesthetic needed
• Non-invasive and non-surgical 
• Zero Downtime 
• Safe and effective 
• 24% fat reduction 

Common Areas of Treatment

Thanks to the size and number of handpieces,  truSculpt® iD can address a variety of concerns and target hard-to-reach areas of the body and face including the neck, arms, inner thighs, back, and chin.

Common concerns addressed by truSculpt® iD: 

• Abs
• Love handles (flanks)
• Hips
• Chin
• Neck
• Inner and outer thighs
• Back
• Upper arms
• Butt 

If you’re struggling with fat on your hips, butt, back, or belly,  you’re not alone. Thanks to truSculpt® iD a slimmer, sexier look can be yours in just a few minutes. The number of truSculpt® iD treatments required to eliminate body fat varies from person to person.

That’s why we invite you to give us a call to set up a consultation.  Once we have an idea of the problem and your goals, we’ll come up with an appropriate treatment plan that works for you.

Because the procedure is non-invasive, there’s no pain, downtime or recovery period. You simply come in, sit back, and let us work our magic. Then you can get on with the rest of your day as if nothing has happened.

At Specialist Skin Solutions, a cosmetic clinic specialising in non-surgical, anti-ageing aesthetic procedures, including the latest laser techniques and dermal therapies, we proudly offer truSculpt® iD, the latest in state-of-the-art body fat melting devices that slims and trims without needles or knives. 

At Specialist Skin Solutions, we believe in transparency and education, providing every client with information, education, and treatment options before every procedure. Offering a thorough consultation prior to treatment, we’ll discuss the areas of concern and the range of treatment options suggested to produce optimal results.  Because the number of truSculpt® iD treatments varies from person to person, we’ll create an individualised treatment plan, discuss our pricing structure, and explain in detail what you can expect both during and after the procedure.

If you’re ready to be rid of excess body fat forever, book an appointment with us today! Specialist Skin Solutions is proud to have incorporated the Cutera truSculpt® iD into our clinic of medical-grade cosmetic devices.

At Specialist Skin Solutions, we’re dedicated to helping each one of our clients feel their best by bringing out their natural beauty and loving the skin they’re in at any age. We look forward to speaking with you!

If you have specific questions, call us at 02-4934-1700.  

*Disclaimer: truSculpt® iD results vary.  There are risks with any procedure.

The post Eliminating Body Fat without Diet, Exercise, or Surgery appeared first on Specialist Skin Solutions.