As a popular new cosmetic dermatology procedure, the treatment known as VelaShape is relatively safe and convenient for patients. VelaShape does not involve needles, harsh chemicals or anesthesia. Instead, a qualified doctor places a vacuum component on the skin, and certain kinds of energy stimulate the skin tissue to try to shrink fat cells and diminish cellulite or fat deposits. Today's television audience can see high profile demonstrations of VelaShape on celebrity clients and other news focused on this kind of treatment.
VelaShape was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2007, three years after the original VelaSmooth product was also approved. VelaShape and VelaSmooth, both made by the Syneron company, share the same basic uses and methods, and a lot of the same technology. Many patients have been treated with these two types of what Syneron calls "elos" technology: a deeply researched radio energy that has been effective for changing the body contours of some patients.
Potential Risks and Complications of VelaShape
Those who are looking for negative impacts will have to cast a relatively wide net in order to see anything about side effects or complications with either VelaSmooth or VelaShape. The doctors who administer these treatments generally find them to be convenient, pain-free choices for patients. Side effects are rarely reported. No recovery time is generally necessary with either of these options. Patients can get up after a VelaSmooth or VelaShape treatment and go back to their normal lives. This makes these treatments attractive to patients who would not sign up for more invasive elective procedures.
Reported Risks and Complications of VelaShape
Although proponents of this kind of treatment claim a very low rate of side effects, some patients have reported bruising with VelaShape. In some cases, this may be due to application by an unskilled practitioner. Those administering VelaShape should always be qualified medical staff.
In addition to some serious reports of post-VelaShape bruising, some patients have reported that after VelaShape, the skin can have a reddish color for a few hours. This condition often goes away on its own and should not cause a lot of discomfort for most patients.
The VelaShape technology features some upgrades over the initial VelaSmooth. One of these is a greater amount of the energy that is applied. As a slightly more powerful treatment, it's possible that VelaShape is more likely to have risk if used improperly. Some doctors who are skilled in treating patients with VelaShape have reported that not all medical offices have the same skill level in delivering this kind of treatment.
Although real risks and complications are rare with VelaShape, this treatment may not be right for individuals with certain conditions, including an inherent vulnerability to bruising as a result of vitamin deficiency or other factors. VelaShape may also not be good for patients who are experiencing circulation problems or other conditions. Talk to local doctors about whether VelaShape is right for an existing condition, and whether medical interactions could cause problems.
