Low-level Laser Therapy: A safer alternative to weight-loss drugs
Photo provided
StatePoint - Weight-loss drugs have skyrocketed in popularity because of their quick results and use among celebrities and influencers. J.P. Morgan predicts that by 2030, 30 million Americans will use them.
However, some medical providers say the drugs’ hidden health risks may not be worth their benefits.
“Weight loss is so often prescribed to improve health,” said Dr. Cesar Lara, a board-certified medical bariatric physician. “The irony is that many of today’s weight-loss medications bring forth their own set of serious risk factors.”
Hidden risks
A growing number of weight-loss drug users report side effects including nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, fatigue, depression and suicidal ideation.
And because these drugs are relatively new for weight-loss purposes, questions linger about their long-term impacts.
Lara said patients considering the drugs should know their potential side effects and alternative options.
“I would advise any patient of mine who needs or desires to lose weight to investigate safe options, like low-level lasers, and to understand the risks of taking medications that could potentially compromise their health,” Lara said.
Safer alternatives
Low-level lasers are a non-invasive, pain-free option for people seeking safer weight-loss treatment.
For example, the Emerald Laser, an FDA-cleared low-level laser for fat loss and body contouring, is additionally FDA-cleared for treating obesity, making it a good choice for those with a lot of weight to lose. The Zerona, also an FDA-cleared low-level laser for fat loss and body contouring, has over-the-counter clearance for overall body circumference reduction, providing a way to quickly target stubborn areas of fat.
Both lasers create temporary tiny pores in fatty cells to release fat, which the body’s lymphatic system naturally removes. Ultimately, the lasers shrink fat cells without damaging them.
This controlled approach helps ensure optimal results in target areas such as the waist, chest or back and requires no recovery time.
Unlike many other weight-loss treatments, lasers do not elevate plasma lipids, triglycerides or cholesterol. They also don’t cause bruising or swelling.
Fat-loss laser treatments are often available at doctors’ offices, chiropractors, spas, health centers and fitness centers. To find a location near you or to offer a laser service at your business, visit fatlosslasers.com.
When considering your weight-loss options, prioritize safe, non-invasive treatments with no side effects.
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Some forms of regenerative medicine involve using the body’s own cells, taking cells from one part of the body and using them to promote healing and rejuvenation where it is needed. This type of regenerative medicine has become a standard option in treating sports injuries, and recent advances have allowed the field to expand to aesthetics, specifically skin tightening and facial rejuvenation.
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EmFace can also be used concurrently with Botox and fillers as part of a facial rejuvenation plan.
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- Short and sweet. Each EmFace treatment takes 20 minutes, so patients can fit in appointments during a lunch break.
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- Speedy results. Data show improvements after four EmFace sessions, and optimal results are evident at 10-12 weeks after the final session.
- Safe and Effective. 20-minute treatments provide an average of 40% wrinkle reduction, 25% lift and 30% rebuilding of the facial muscles.
The noninvasive aspect makes EmFace especially appealing for the holiday season, when no one wants the inconvenience of post-procedure downtime. “Our motto is ‘Don’t Operate . . . Regenerate,” says Dr. Savarino.
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