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Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia Treatment

Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH) is a rare phenomenon that may occur following cryolipolysis or CoolSculpting®. All cosmetic procedures, even non-invasive ones, carry a small risk of complications. The results of cryolipolysis are well documented to be very effective at spot-reducing fatty deposits and provide a safe alternative to liposuction. In a very small number of patients, the procedure does not work and may result in excess fatty deposits, or PAH.

What Is Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH)?

Understanding PAH first requires understanding how cryolipolysis works. Special applicators are applied to the target area(s), which cool your tissue to the exact point that destroys fat cells without damaging other tissues. The destroyed fat cells are then removed from your system through the body’s natural processes. The result of this fat removal is a slimmer and toned target area.

With Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia, the body unexpectedly produces excess fatty tissues instead of eliminating them. While it takes three to six months for PAH to develop, it is identifiable by its presentation. It is an expanded area of fatty tissue which is firm to the touch and often in the same shape as the applicator used to perform the cryolipolysis.

Why Does PAH Occur?

While there is no known cause of PAH, some theories are being tested to see if an answer can be found. It could be that certain fat cells are resistant to the cold temperatures, and because they survive, they cause the body to react in a way that creates more of the resistant cells. The body may overcompensate cell reproduction, resulting in excess fatty deposits. A second possibility is the body’s reaction to the suction component of cryolipolysis, where the negative pressure encourages certain types of fat cells to grow.

There are no known identifiable risk factors, and although the overall risk of PAH is understood to be low, PAH can affect any area treated by cryolipolysis.

What Treatments Are Available for Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia?

Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia is treatable. While it does not respond well to non-invasive methods, a highly trained, expert plastic surgeon has the tools necessary to reduce or eliminate the appearance of PAH and restore the area. Depending on the degree of fat cell regrowth, options include liposuction, a combination of radiofrequency ultrasound and liposuction, or in the most severe cases, a full surgical revision where the excess tissue is removed, and excess skin is tightened.

Treatment for PAH in Nevada

Dr. Erez Dayan is an elite plastic and reconstructive surgeon and is known for his research papers and advocacy of the highest caliber of plastic and reconstructive techniques available. His firm belief in using the least invasive methods to provide the desired outcomes means he will select the treatments best suited to your unique needs.

Since every PAH case is unique, an in-depth consultation combined with his extensive education and experience allows him to identify the techniques that can help correct and minimize the effects of PAH. With his attentive and caring approach, you will always understand why he chooses the treatment plan he believes will work best, and you will always understand the goals and expected outcomes of any procedures.

If you developed PAH following cryolipolysis, it is understandably frustrating and disheartening when a procedure does not go as planned and unexpected side effects occur. Rest assured the appearance of PAH can be improved and that we are here to help you. Contact our Reno, Nevada, office today for your PAH treatment consultation.

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