AILESBURY COSMETIC: 'Ultrashape explained' by Dr. Patrick Treacy

PR Log (Press Release) – Jun 22, 2009 – Obesity now affects 16% of women and 20% of men in Ireland, according to government statistics. Notwithstanding this, a further 33% of women and 46% of men are overweight. The most worrying part about these statistics is that they show that obesity has almost doubled on the island of Ireland over the past decade. In view of these worrying trends, Maura Derrane decided to interview Dr. Patrick Treacy, Medical Director of the Ailesbury Clinics about the latest non-surgical and surgical options available on the Irish market to treat obesity.

Maura Derrane: Can you tell us about the new novel treatment called UltraShape® ?

UltraShape® is the first safe and surgery-free body contouring treatment to successfully remove fat cells using ultrasound technology for effective and visible results. It is suitable for removing unwanted fat from the abdomen, inner and outer thighs and flanks. UltraShape is a non-invasive procedure requiring no anaesthetic needles or down time. The treatment is performed by a doctor or nurse, taking as little as one hour. After a single treatment, an average circumference reduction of 2.5cm is observed, equivalent to one dress size.

How does UltraShape work?

The UltraShape treatment uses high energy focused ultrasound technology to remove unwanted fat. An ultrasound beam selectively targets fat cells in the chosen body region, and disrupts them without harming surrounding nerves, blood vessels or skin.

What happens to the fat cells?

During the treatment, the fat cell membranes are disrupted and dispersed into the fluid between the cells before being transported through the vascular and lymphatic systems to the liver. Once in the liver, there is no distinction between fat coming from the UltraShape treatment and the fat originating from consumed food. They are both cleared from the liver via the body’s natural mechanisms.

How many treatments of UltraShape are required?

This really depends on the amount of fat you wish to loose. You can expect to loose up to 2.5cm in body circumference per treatment. At present, we are able to treat the abdomen, inner and outer thighs (saddle bags) and flanks (love handles). Present research shows that 3 treatments give the best results.

How long does an UltraShape treatment take?

Again this really depends on the size of the area to be treated. The time also includes a consultation and preparation for treatment. As a guide, you should expect your appointment to last between 1- 2 hours.

What happens during treatment?

After your consultation, the doctor (or nurse) will measure your body circumference and mark the area(s) to be treated. A hand-held device delivering ultrasound beams gently glides over the marked area, guided by innovative tracking technology to ensure smooth and even contouring results. You can resume your daily routine as soon as the treatment is over. Many treatment centres are now using this machine in association with RF devices such as VelaSmooth® or Accent®. The majority of patients report no pain or discomfort. Some patients may experience a mild tingling and a warm sensation during the pulses.

Do patients experience any side-effects following treatment?

I am not aware of any side-effects to date. Patients may experience some redness and a mild swelling to the treated area(s), but this should subside within a few hours. Patients have stated that there has been no post-treatment pain or discomfort.

What price is UltraShape treatment?

UltraShape normally costs €1700 for 3 treatment areas. Patients receive radiofrequency to the area between treatments. We have heard that Smartlipo™ causes minimal discomfort, bruising and side effects and is very safe.

Dr. Patrick Treacy, Cosmetic Practitioner is Medical Director of The Ailesbury Clinics, Dublin and Cork. Dr.Treacy has worked in his profession in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, South Africa, Gibraltar, and Ireland. Dr. Treacy is an international guest speaker and lectures overseas on fibroblast transplants and the application of radiosurgery to cosmetic medicine. For further information log onto www.ailesburyclinic.ie