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  Body Contouring for Today’s Active Lifestyle

 
Frequently Asked Questions       

 
What is LipoSelection® only by VASER®?
Why LipoSelection? Is the LipoSelection procedure different than traditional liposuction?
How is LipoSelection only by VASER different from UltraSculpt™ /other UAL?
How does LipoSelection only by VASER work?
What body areas can be treated with LipoSelection only by VASER?
How much fat can be taken?
What happens during the LipoSelection procedure?
Where is LipoSelection only by VASER performed?
What type of results can I expect?
What's the advantage of general vs. local anesthesia? Office vs. hospital procedure?
What's in the infusion fluid? Isn't lidocaine dangerous?
What is my anticipated recovery time?
What about future weight gain / fat migrating to other areas?
Will LipoSelection only by VASER eliminate my cellulite?
How can I be certain LipoSelection only by VASER is right for me?
How much does it cost? Why pay more?
May I speak with a patient(s) who has had the LipoSelection procedure?

What is HCG?
 
   
   

 

What is LipoSelection® only by VASER®?

LipoSelection only by VASER combines patented technologies with advanced surgical techniques to sculpt the body and remove unwanted fat deposits. The LipoSelection procedure uses ultrasonic energy to break up fat while leaving surrounding tissue - such as nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue - relatively intact. Patients report highly satisfactory results and low to minimal pain*.

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Why LipoSelection? Is the LipoSelection procedure different than traditional liposuction?


LipoSelection only by VASER is a new and very different way to precisely and efficiently remove unwanted fat. An alternative to the harsh techniques of traditional liposuction, LipoSelection only by VASER uses state-of-the-art ultrasound technology to reshape your body. Only the LipoSelection procedure uses the proprietary VASER System to first liquefy and then remove fat from the body, which is why it provides such smooth, predictable results. Since it is more tissue selective than traditional liposuction, patients report low to minimal pain and low to minimal swelling and bruising*.

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How is LipoSelection only by VASER different from UltraSculpt™ /other UAL?


Although the technologies used to perform both procedures employ ultrasonic energy, there are significant differences. Other ultrasound platforms utilize either hollow probes that fragment fat while simultaneously removing protective fluid (which can increase the risk of thermal damage such as burns), or smooth probes that focus all of the energy at the tip (which can damage the tissue matrix). ONLY the LipoSelection procedure utilizes patented VASER Technology to efficiently break up fat with diffused energy via small, solid grooved probes and then remove liquefied fat with massage and cannulae designed with minimal tissue trauma in mind. The VASER platform allows for up to 50% reduction of applied power compared to UAL devices. An independent peer-reviewed published study reported that patients treated with VASER Technology experienced none of the complications common to UAL as reported in medical literature (such as burns, prolonged swelling, abnormal sensation or skin cell degradation)

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How does LipoSelection only by VASER work?

High frequency sound energy emitted by the VASER System breaks up fat on contact while leaving surrounding tissues relatively intact. The fragmented fat flows into the wetting solution and is extracted through suction and massage. This process results in smooth, predictable outcomes.

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What body areas can be treated with LipoSelection only by VASER?

Doctors have experienced great success in treating all of the following areas: abdomen, thighs, knees, buttocks, hips, back, arms, male breasts, love handles, chin and neck areas.

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How much fat can be taken?

There are limits to how much fatty tissue can be safely taken from the body. One way to get a good idea for yourself is to stand and bend from the waist. The amount of "loose-hanging" fat you can easily grab above / below your waist will approximate what can be removed. Bear in mind that this procedure is not intended as a weight loss solution. The goal is to create a slimmer silhouette. You may not notice a significant amount of weight loss, but should be pleased with your slimmer new shape.

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What happens during the LipoSelection procedure?

First, the area to be sculpted is filled with a special saline solution that helps numb the site and shrink the blood vessels (to minimize blood loss and reduce bruising). This solution wets and fills the area to be treated, making fat easier to break up with the VASER System's sound energy. Then a small probe transmits sound energy (similar to that used for cataract removal in the eye) that breaks up fat on contact, while leaving other important tissues relatively intact. Finally, suction and massage of the sculpted site removes the emulsified fat quickly. Thanks to its patented technology, only the LipoSelection procedure first emulsifies and then removes fat in this manner.

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Where is LipoSelection only by VASER performed?

LipoSelection only by VASER is performed in a clean environment. Some possible options are in your doctor's office, in an outpatient surgery center or in a hospital.

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What type of results can I expect?

The ultrasonic technology used for the LipoSelection® procedure breaks up fatty tissue while leaving other important tissues relatively intact. As a result, treatment with the VASER System has been reported to result in smooth contouring and low incidence of complications* such as prolonged swelling, loss of sensation or prolonged numbing, blood clots, bruising, blister-like spots called seromas, and skin discoloration.

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What's the advantage of general vs. local anesthesia? Office vs. hospital procedure?

Some individuals find the thought of any surgery very disturbing. In a hospital, under general anesthesia, you are unaware of what is happening - you go to sleep and awaken post-operatively. This method of anesthesia may be preferable if you are having a large amount of fat removed, or having multiple sites treated.

Some individuals find general anesthesia intimidating, preferring to remain awake under local anesthesia - perhaps accompanied by IV sedation. If the treatment is not too extensive, this may be a viable option.

For still others, the convenience and familiarity of their doctor's office allows for maximum comfort, provided the surgery is not too extensive. Here, under local anesthesia (perhaps accompanied by a sedative), patients experience minimal discomfort while remaining awake but relaxed.

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What's in the infusion fluid? Isn't lidocaine dangerous?

A saline solution is injected to "loosen up" fatty tissue. This solution includes diluted amounts of a blood constrictor [Epinephrine] to reduce bleeding and bruising and an anesthetic numbing agent [Lidocaine]. The percentage of lidocaine and the amount of fluid is carefully monitored and administered to avoid toxicity issues. If this is a serious concern of yours, you should definitely discuss it with the doctor before you make your decision.

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What is my anticipated recovery time?

This varies with the extensiveness of the procedure - the amount of fat removed, the number of sites treated, and so on. It is important that you establish realistic expectations through discussion with your doctor.

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What about future weight gain / fat migrating to other areas?

This is a common misperception. Following your LipoSelection procedure, should you experience weight gain or loss, it will tend to be proportionately distributed over your entire body. Once you have fat removed, it is gone and, assuming a healthy lifestyle of proper diet and exercise, it will not return or migrate. However, because fat is necessary to a healthy body, some essential fat layers in any given site remain untreated. If you do gain a significant amount of weight, the remaining fatty tissue will expand. Normal aging changes can also be expected.

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Will LipoSelection only by VASER eliminate my cellulite?

"Cellulite" is a term used to describe a specific look of fat in skin overlying certain areas of the body (often described as "orange peel" or "cottage cheese skin"). As we age, almost all of us develop some cellulite. There is currently no curative "fix" for cellulite.

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How can I be certain LipoSelection only by VASER is right for me?

If you are frustrated by the resistance of certain body areas to diet and exercise, LipoSelection only by VASER can provide a solution. If you are healthy and seeking a fast, low-pain* solution to losing stubborn fat deposits, the LipoSelection procedure could be your answer. Although there are limits to the amount of fat that can be removed, your doctor can assist you with your decision about potential areas for sculpting, anticipated results, and the recovery process.

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How much does it cost? Why pay more?

As with other treatments, costs can vary among surgeons and depending upon the specific nature of the treatment (location of fat pocket, number of treatment sites, extensiveness of treatment, etc.). "Why pay more?" is a question only you can answer for yourself. After talking with a number of potential patients, we have found that most would readily pay a few hundred dollars more to obtain the benefits of the LipoSelection procedure.

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May I speak with a patient(s) who has had the LipoSelection procedure?

We would be happy to facilitate that for you. Many of our patients are so pleased with the results of their LipoSelection procedure that they have volunteered to talk about their experience.

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* In an independent peer-reviewed published study ["Clinical Application of VASER-assisted Lipoplasty: A Pilot Clinical Study" (2002, March); Aesthetic Surgery Journal 22 (2), 131-146], three prominent plastic surgeons who treated 77 patients
 

What is HCG?

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, more commonly known as HCG, is a hormone produced by the placenta during the early stages of pregnancy. HCG has various medical applications including use as a fertility drug and as a rapid weight loss aid.

 

Why Do I Need Medical Supervision?

HCG is not for everyone.  When you come to Boerne Women’s Care for your free consultation, our staff will conduct a personal interview.  This will review your health history, vital statistics, and personal goals.  Dr. Smith will review your information and determine if you meet the requirements for the HCG Diet.

 

The program also includes weekly weigh-ins to ensure that you are proceeding through the weight loss safely without compromising muscle mass.

 

 

How much weight will I lose with the HCG Diet?

Most HCG dieters report a loss of ½ to ¾ lbs per day. Many lose up to 1 lb. per day and a few lose more. Females should expect to lose 20 to 30 lbs. during the 40 day program. Men typically may lose 30 to 40 lbs. during the 40 day program.

 

 

What preparations are required before I can begin the HCG Diet?

Prior to treatment, Dr. Smith will request blood tests and perform a general health assessment.

 

 

Is it healthy to lose 1 to pounds a day with the HCG Diet?

HCG weight lost comes directly from fat and does not strip the body of much needed muscle, vitamins or minerals essential to maintain good health, while at the same time, releasing excessive amounts of fat-stored nutrients into the blood stream to be absorbed by the body.  For this reason, HCG dieters report a feeling and appearance of great health and marvel at the loss of negative health risks they had as an overweight individual.  

 

Why the 500 calorie diet - VLCD (very low calorie diet)?
The HCG diet will cause your hypothalamus to mobilize the fat out of the fat storage locations so that it’s available for use.  While you are only consuming 500 calories, your hypothalamus is continually releasing the fat stored in your body.  Because of this, your body is actually operating on thousands of calories a day.  The result is your body using thousands of calories of fat from your body each day; the reason HCG dieters lose 1 to 2 lbs of fat or more, per day.  

 

 

Will I be hungry on 500 calories a day?
It is common for mild hunger during the first few days, however this will pass and by the 2nd week, you will find even very tiny servings, to be completely satisfying.  This is partly due to your hypothalamus adjusting your metabolic rate, but largely due to the amount of calories circulating in your system from the fat being released.  It is common that HCG dieters feel as though they are stuffing themselves in order to reach that 500 calorie limit!

Who is a right candidate for HCG Diet Shots?
The majority of men and women can use HCG for weight loss.  Dieters must consult a physician concerning your weight loss, along with the appropriate implementation of the HCG protocol. The physician will NOT permit HCG weight loss programs for women who are pregnant or nursing.

Will I gain the weight back after the HCG diet?
After the HCG diet, you will find your appetite has changed, your eating behavior will be changed and your body will (of course), have changed.  This is the perfect opportunity to adopt that healthy lifestyle to maintain your weight. 

You will find a minimum amount of exercise will be sufficient for maintaining a very healthy body- from yoga, to 15 minutes of cardio a day, or whatever you enjoy, that gets your heart moving.  With your hypothalamus reset, your metabolism will be different and you will be able to eat moderately without feeling the need to overeat. However, it is always recommended that you maintain a regular exercise program for 30 to 45 minutes per day with two days of resistance training each week (20 to 30 minutes). This routine and a healthy diet will help ensure your health and weight.

What is the hypothalamus gland?
The hypothalamus gland moderates the thyroid, adrenals, fat storage, and more importantly, your metabolic rate.  

Is HCG safe for men?   
The HCG used for the HCG weight loss protocol is actually already found in men.  In fact, it is present in every human tissue, including males and non-pregnant women as well as pregnant. 

Is HCG a “magic” weight loss cure?

No. In fact, HCG is only effective for weight loss when combined with the right lifestyle modifications.  The HCG diet is one of the tools Boerne Women’s Care uses to help people safely lose weight fast, but is a part of a much larger picture.

 

 

Is Boerne Women’s Care a licensed medical clinic?

Yes.  Boerne Women’s Care is a fully functioning gynecology practice staffed with an MD.  We also specialize in Bio-Identical hormone therapy, adrenal therapy, and of course, weight loss.

 

Is HCG therapy covered by my insurance?

No.  Most all insurance plans do not cover weight loss therapies.

 

How much does HCG therapy cost?

Due to the wide variance in recommended testing and people’s specific goals and needs, there is no one-size-fits-all program. Boerne Women’s Care invites you to come in for a FREE consultation to address your weight loss and health goals individually, where cost will be determined based on your needs.

 

 

How do I sign up for the HCG weight loss program at Boerne Women’s Care?

Call us at 830-331-9674 to schedule a Free Consultation. You will meet with one of our program coordinators to answer any questions you have about HCG for weight loss, address your goals, and set up an individualized program.

 

 

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