Ultrasound Fat Reduction

The cost of ultrasound fat reduction in Pakistan ranges between 60,000 - 1,50,000 PKR. However, this cost varies and depends on the procedure's complexity and the expertise of your surgeon. 

Diagnosis

If your doctor finds excessive fat deposits in different areas of your body such as arms, thighs, or abdomen, he may recommend you ultrasound fat reduction procedure. 

Types

There are two different types of ultrasound fat reduction procedures which are as follows:

• Ultrasound Cavitation: This method involves the use of low-frequency ultrasound waves to create tiny bubbles in your fat tissues. Resultantly, fat cells break into free fatty acids and glycerol. Your lymphatic system then naturally eliminates these by-products. 

• High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound: Also called HIFU involves high-intensity ultrasound waves to generate heat in the targeted fat tissues. The heat causes thermal coagulation and necrosis, leading to the destruction of fat cells. The body then removes your treated fat cells with its natural metabolic processes.

Procedure

The healthcare provider may follow these steps to perform ultrasound fat reduction:

• Depending on the specific technology used, your healthcare provider may ask you to remove any jewelry or metal objects from the area under treatment.

• The doctor then applies a special gel to facilitate the transmission of ultrasound waves. 

• In case of cavitation, low-frequency ultrasound waves are applied to the skin with a handheld device. The waves create tiny bubbles and break fat cells.

• Another treatment option your healthcare provider may use is high-intensity focused ultrasound waves. If that's the case, high-intensity focused ultrasound waves target fat cells. 

The procedure may take 30 minutes to more than an hour, depending on the treatment area and the technology used. Once your medical procedure is complete, you can resume your regular activities. 

Risks & Complications

The risks and complications associated with ultrasound fat reduction are as follows:

• The destruction of fat cells releases free fatty acids. High levels of fatty acids affect liver function. 

• Excessive heat or improper use of the ultrasound device may cause skin burns or blistering.

• The lack of proper hygiene and aftercare increases the risk of developing an infection. 

• You may experience temporary numbness at the treated site.

What to expect after

After ultrasound fat reduction, you may experience: 

• Lightheadedness and headache

• Lack of appetite

• Skin redness

• Oral dryness

• Nausea

Last but not least, your healthcare provider may schedule an appointment 4-5 days after surgery for lymph drainage.

The complete recovery time for an ultrasound fat reduction procedure is usually 2-3 weeks. However, patients can immediately return to normal activities after the procedure.