Even with the knowledge of possible side effects, it is startling to discover that your fat reduction treatment resulted in fat growth instead. In a very small percentage of patients, certain treatments for body sculpting such as CoolSculpting can result in a condition known as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia. This is exactly what it sounds like; fat spreading unexpectedly. This unfortunate side effect can be effectively eliminated by a skilled surgeon with minimal downtime.
Our highly trained, award-winning plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills, along with our star-quality team of medical professionals and administrators, are ready to offer you the best possible medical aesthetic experience in the industry. At Plastic Surgery Institute in Beverly Hills paradoxical adipose hyperplasia correction is performed by Dr. Andrew Ordon, Dr. Ritu Chopra, and Dr. Nathaniel Villanueva, who have the experience, finesse, and, most importantly, the human compassion for outstanding and satisfying results.
Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH) is a rare complication that can occur after non-invasive fat reduction treatments such as CoolSculpting used to remove fat from the body.
In PAH, instead of the targeted fat cells being eliminated, they actually increase in size and number, resulting in an enlargement of the treated area. PAH can occur weeks or even months after the initial treatment. The precise cause of PAH is not completely understood, but many believe it is related to a genetic predisposition or an inflammatory response. PAH is typically treated with liposuction, abdominoplasty, or a combination of procedures in order to remove the excess fat cells.
PAH is an extremely rare side effect of CoolSculpting treatment that is estimated to affect around 0.5% or less of patients. Instead of the expected results of the treatment, the opposite occurs. Fat cells multiply, become larger, and sometimes become firm or tender. This reaction is not fully understood but is easily reversible with proper treatment.
PAH is most commonly treated with the simple removal of the enlarged area of fat cells. This may involve liposuction, surgical removal, or both depending on the extent of the hyperplasia.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a minimally-invasive procedure used to remove excess fat cells from almost anywhere in the body, and it can also be used to treat PAH. During the liposuction procedure, small incisions are made in the skin and a thin, hollow tube is inserted into the affected area, which is used to break up and suction out the excess fat cells. This method is often used when the patient has plenty of skin elasticity and skin removal is not necessary.
Liposuction with Renuvion
Liposuction with Renuvion is a combination procedure used to treat PAH. This method combines standard liposuction with the use of Renuvion, a helium plasma device that delivers controlled heat energy to the underlying tissue. This energy works to tighten and tone the skin while also reducing the excess fat cells that have accumulated in the affected area. The Renuvion device is inserted through the same liposuction incisions and is also non-surgical and minimally invasive.
Liposuction with Tummy Tuck
If the presence of PAH is more significant, liposuction along with a surgical abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, may be necessary. During the procedure, small incisions are made to perform the liposuction, and then the abdominal muscles are tightened and excess skin is removed through a separate incision. Recovery time for this procedure varies, but patients should expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising for a few weeks after the surgery.
Correcting PAH can restore the normal appearance of the treated area to help patients feel more confident. Additionally, in cases where a tummy tuck is combined with liposuction to correct PAH, patients may also experience an improvement in abdominal muscle tone and a reduction in excess skin, resulting in a flatter and more toned appearance in the abdomen. Experiencing paradoxical adipose hyperplasia can be a frustrating, challenging, and emotional time. The good news is this condition is completely treatable. With PAH correction treatments, you can achieve the originally intended results of your procedure. You’ll be able to:
One of the main requirements for treatment is to wait until the tissue and fat deposits in the affected area have softened, which usually occurs around six to nine months after the initial procedure. Once this takes place, virtually anyone who is experiencing this rare side effect from CoolSculpting is a good candidate for correction.
Our main priority is to ensure each of our Beverly Hills paradoxical adipose hyperplasia correction patients receives the highest quality care and compassion along with a stunning aesthetic result. We understand that seeking correction for PAH means you’ve likely been through a time of stress and discomfort. Our goal is to reverse this condition and start you on the path to restoration and get you back to achieving your aesthetic goals. At a consultation for treatment of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia correction Beverly Hills aesthetic experts will discuss your medical history, expectations for your correction procedure, and any requirements to prepare for it.
Liposuction is typically performed under local anesthesia and can be done as an outpatient procedure. If you will be receiving an abdominoplasty, you will likely be under general anesthesia. PAH correction takes anywhere from one to three hours, depending on the method used.
Prior to undergoing PAH correction Beverly Hills patients will receive detailed recovery guidelines based on their treatment plan. Depending on which method is used, you can expect recovery to last anywhere from two to eight weeks. Immediately after the procedure, patients may experience some bruising, swelling, and discomfort, but these typically resolve within a few weeks. Addressing PAH via liposuction or surgery should be permanent, with no maintenance required.
Beverly Hills knows their cosmetic surgeons, and the Plastic Surgery Institute is one of the top practices in the area, offering world-renowned care and results. Our board-certified plastic surgeons and skilled staff have been featured in Life&Style Magazine, New Beauty, and many more. We have the unmatched expertise you’re looking for, which is critical to ensure a positive outcome both aesthetically and for your health and well-being.
We can help you find restoration and healing for your body and mind. Contact us today at 310.248.6250 or request a consultation online.
This condition is extremely rare, and studies have shown that it only occurs in approximately 0.005% to 0.55% of the patient population.
In many cases, this condition is not painful, but some may experience discomfort or tenderness in the affected area. The enlarged area may also feel firm or lumpy to the touch.
When liposuction or surgery are used to correct PAH, they are performed under anesthesia or sedation. Some patients may experience some discomfort during the healing process after treatment, but this can be eased with OTC painkillers.
Yes, since the methods typically used to correct PAH are safe and effective cosmetic procedures, their use in addressing PAH is low-risk and reliable.
In most cases, corrective procedures for PAH are permanent.
If liposuction is used, there is typically minimal scarring since only tiny incisions are made for device access. In the case of a tummy tuck, there will be a surgical scar, but our skilled surgeons work to make scarring as discreet and minor as possible.
This depends on which method is used and whether you will need sedation or anesthesia.
The cost of this treatment will vary depending on which method is used and how extensive of a correction is required.
In many cases, some combination of the original product manufacturer or your insurance provider will cover most or all of the cost. Our helpful office staff are happy to walk patients through the entire process.
No matter what brought you here, a visit with our doctors will bring out the best in you. Call us today to schedule your initial consultation, either in person or online.
465 North Roxbury Drive, Suite 1007, Beverly Hills, CA 90210