While I was at Cosmetic Boot Camp in Colorado Springs two weeks ago, I learned about several new technologies that will bring solutions to a lot of people in some pretty unique ways.MiraDry system for sweaty armpits: This is a non-invasive, FDA-approved new technology that actually microwaves the sweat glands under the armpits. This procedure uses precisely controlled electromagnetic energy similar to a microwave (5800 MHz). The energy is delivered directly to the dermal-fat interface. Energy is concentrated along this tissue plane and creates a focal energy zone.MORE: Don’t Sweat It: We Tested the Best Deodorants This heat zone results in thermolysis and destruction of the sweat glands. This is used to treat hyperhydrosis (excessive sweating) and once the sweat glands are eliminated, they will not come back. There are no surgical incisions and two procedures are recommended three months apart to maximize results.The side effects include localized soreness, temporary swelling, and occasional short term altered sensation with numbness and tingling which resolves. Patients can go back to work or resume normal activities immediately. This procedure costs approximately $2,000 per treatment session.Liposonix system to melt fat: This new, non-invasive FDA approved system targets fat. This procedure uses advanced high-intensity ultrasound to remove fat below the skin in one hour long treatment. I had this procedure done on my abdomen at the conference. It was tolerable without any analgesics and it did hurt toward the end of the passes.QUIZ: How Do You Feel About Your Body?The machine is passed over your treatment area five times. The other underlying body organs remain intact and it causes no harm to other tissue, nor does it bump up fat levels in your bloodstream. The fat cells are permanently destroyed, but surrounding fat cells can grow if you gain weight. Most patients loose one inch in one hour. There is no downtime, and side effects include temporary redness, bruising, discomfort and swelling. I had a little swelling and discomfort. The results are noted two to three months later, so I am waiting. This procedure costs between $2,500-$5,000 depending on what areas are treated.LaViv injectable filler (azficel-T) for smoothing wrinkles: This was FDA-cleared in mid 2011. LaViv works by harvesting the patient’s own skin cells and then growing them out in sterile cell culture so they can be re-injected back into the patient’s wrinkles and folds, as well as where they need volume. The skin cells are taken via a superficial skin biopsy from behind the ear. The cells are shipped to a lab on ice and grown out over three to four months. They are then injected into the patient over three treatments within a twelve week period.Results appear to last longer than a year. Side effects include redness, bruising, swelling and pain. The cost of the cell culture/laboratory processing is $4,000 and each syringe injected is approximately $650. Most patients have at least six syringes injected.COLUMN: Home Cosmetic Surgery (Yes, It Exists!)LaViv is great for patients that have a true hyaluronic acid allergy or for patients that truly want to use their own cells for filler for decreasing fine lines, wrinkles and improving sagging in their faces.WATCH: Dr. Downie demonstrates the latest technologies on “Today”
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