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Ask our Doctors

Skin Renewal Doctors all have a broad knowledge, background and passion for aesthetic medicine. Please feel free to ask them your questions and concerns.

Treatments

frequently asked
questions

Are i-Lipo Ultra treatments available at all Body Renewal branches?
What is i-Lipo?

The i-Lipo is a low-level laser (LLLT) system, also often referred to as a cold laser. This low dose of light targets the adipose (fat) cells in the treatment area, creating a cascade of chemical reactions inside the cells that open transitory pores in the cell membrane and convert the contained triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol. These molecules can then easily pass through the pores in the cell wall to be taken up and transported by the body's lymphatic system for metabolism into energy during the subsequently recommended post-treatment exercise.

How does i-Lipo Ultra LLLT work with the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program?

At Body Renewal we have recognised that the low level laser therapy LLLT body shaping device called i-Lipo helps facilitate weight loss whilst on the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program. Patients who have combined i-Lipo, a low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with their Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program package have seen great results with centimetre reduction and weight loss.

An article published in the American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery in 2010 demonstrated the following:

  • A statistically significant reduction in both serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels following a standard two-week, six treatment LLLT administration.
  • LLLT based on histological evidence has proven to reduce fat mass stored on the waist, hips, and thighs while preventing fat cell death.

The treatment causes the membrane of the fat cell to collapse allowing the triglyceride fat in form of free fatty acids and glycerol to be released and the cell returned to its lean state. These molecules can then easily pass through the pores in the cell wall to be taken up and transported by the body’s lymphatic system for metabolism into energy during the subsequent recommended post treatment exercise session.

Reduced fat mass is associated with the synthesis of beneficial hormones like adiponectin, which promotes insulin sensitivity within numerous tissues. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating the effectiveness of LLLT for potential acute and long-term medical benefits.

How would i-lipo Ultra / LLLT benefits patient on the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program?

i-Lipo LLLT may serve as a valuable addition to dietary programs such as Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program to promote insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes because a lean state is produced in the fat cell.

What benefits does a lean fat cell cell in the body have for obesity?
  • A lean state means improved insulin sensitivity which will result in less insulin needed for glucose metabolism
  • Less insulin means Less fat deposited by the Body
  • Improved synthesis of beneficial hormones like adiponectin which promotes insulin sensitivity within numerous tissues.
What causes Metabolic Syndrome?

The exact mechanisms of the complex pathways of metabolic syndrome are not yet completely known. The pathophysiology is very complex and has been only partially explained. Obesity and insulin resistance from part of a group of conditions that result in syndrome X or the Metabolic Syndrome. Most patients are:

  • Older,
  • Obese,
  • Inactive
  • Stressed
What are the risks and complications of Metabolic Syndrome and its management?

Metabolic Syndrome is a combination of the medical disorders that, when occurring together, increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Some studies have shown the prevalence in the USA to be an estimated 25% of the population and prevalence increases with age. A new, innovative approach to Metabolic Syndrome recognition and treatment is needed since to date, conventional wisdom has failed us. South Africa is also in the midst of a diabetes epidemic. Over the past 20 years, the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes in South Africa has more than doubled, and children are being diagnosed with diabetes in alarming numbers. Diabetes has rapidly emerged as a leading culprit in the epidemic of heart disease, as well as being a leading cause of amputation and blindness among adults.

How does i-Lipo ULTRA work?

The i-lipo uses LLLT which works to empty the fat contents of the target treatment area. These cells remain undamaged and can, therefore, be re-filled in the future if your calorie intake should exceed calorie use. That is why it works so well if combined with the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program.

The i-lipo Ultra vacuum massage combined with LLLT encourages a localised improvement of blood circulation to stimulate and restore healthy cell activity. Physical manipulation of tissue layers promotes increased circulation, to bring oxygen and nutrients to the cells and lymphatic drainage to remove excess toxins and excess fluid that might damage the cells. Temperature increases and the use of specific laser wavelengths initiate fibroblast activity to create brand new connective tissues fibres increasing tissue flexibility.

The vacuum massage handpiece captures tissue drawing it into the aperture and positioning it for optimal laser penetration. Vacuum and massage which encourages optimal circulatory and lymphatic flow.

What areas does the i-Lipo treat?

Abdomen, love handles, inner and outer thighs, bat wings, bra bulges, double chin, knees, ankles and male breast fat reduction.

When can one begin to see results?

Prior to each treatment, the area will be measured. Post-treatment measurements will be done to show your centimetre loss. You will see results after one treatment but for long term results, a series of 8 treatments is advised, performed twice a week for a 4 week duration.

At Body Renewal an exercise bike is available for a 30 minute cardio session directly after your i-lipo treatment to "burn off" the released fat. This is required to reach optimal treatment benefits and to maintain results.

Why would one choose i-Lipo Ultra over invasive Laser Lipolysis and traditional liposuction?
  • i-lipo Ultra low laser level technology (LLLT) offers patients a safe and effective non- invasive laser lipolysis option with no downtime.
  • The success of liposuction and laser lipolysis is highly dependent on the skills and experience of the surgeon, therefore results can vary considerably.
  • LLLT low level laser therapy such as i-Lipo has been proven to restore fat cells to a lean state without inducing cell death which improves insulin resistance

Given the choice, most people would rather choose a non-invasive procedure like i-lipo Ultra to improve their unwanted fat than choose invasive procedures like traditional liposuction and invasive laser lipolysis, which are invasive procedures with post operative side effects and downtime. Liposuction is the most commonly used technique for fat reduction; however, it is associated with severe risks such as embolism, nerve compression, skin necrosis, problems with anaesthesia, infection and seroma.

How may Lipo Ultra improve insulin resistance and the Metabolic Syndrome?

This low dose of light from the i-lipo targets the adipose (fat) cells in the treatment area, creating a cascade of chemical reactions inside the cells that open transitory pores in the cell membrane and convert the contained triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol producing a lean state in the fat cell. Reduced fat mass (a lean state) is associated with the synthesis of beneficial hormones like adiponectin, which promotes insulin sensitivity within numerous tissues.

In addition: An article published in the American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery in 2010 demonstrated the following:

  • A statistically significant reduction in both serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels following a standard two-week, six treatment LLLT administration.
  • LLLT based on histological evidence, has proven to reduce fat mass stored on the waist, hips, and thighs while preventing fat cell death.

On-going clinical trials are evaluating the effectiveness of LLLT for potential acute and long-term medical benefits.

What benefits does a lean fat cell cell in the body have for obesity?
  • A lean state means improved insulin sensitivity which will result in less insulin needed for glucose metabolism
  • Less insulin means less fat deposited by the body
  • Improved synthesis of beneficial hormones like adiponectin which promotes insulin sensitivity within numerous tissues.
What are the risks and complications of Metabolic Syndrome and its management?

Metabolic Syndrome is a combination of the medical disorders that, when occurring together, increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Some studies have shown the prevalence in the USA to be an estimated 25% of the population and prevalence increases with age. A new, innovative approach to Metabolic Syndrome recognition and treatment is needed since to date, conventional wisdom has failed us. South Africa is also in the midst of a diabetes epidemic. Over the past 20 years, the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes in South Africa has more than doubled, and children are being diagnosed with diabetes in alarming numbers. Diabetes has rapidly emerged as a leading culprit in the epidemic of heart disease, as well as being a leading cause of amputation and blindness among adults.

How many i-Lipo treatments are needed?

Although single treatments of i-lipo Ultra will produce immediate results and centimetre loss a course of combination treatment sessions is advised to produce maximum benefit. For most patients a course of eight sessions is advised, performed twice per week for a four week duration. It is advised that only a single anatomical treatment zone is treated at any one time. Additional treatments or anatomical locations can be treated after the first course of sessions has been completed. Single maintenance treatments in the future can be scheduled as per your specific needs.

Is i-Lipo safe?

Yes, i-lipo treatments are safe. You may experience a very mild warming sensation of the skin under each treatment pad towards the end of each 10 minute section of the treatment. Patients with very dark or tanned skin colour may experience slight redness in small dots where each laser aperture was located on the skin. This is temporary and can remain for several hours after the treatment. In very extreme cases this may develop into temporary hyper-pigmentation and may last for a day or two.

i-Lipo Ultra is contraindicated for the following patients?
  • Pregnant
  • Epilepsy
  • Uncontrolled Hypertension
  • Cardiac Arrhythmias or Heart Disease
  • Pacemakers
  • Recent or current history of cancer, or actively undergoing radiation or chemotherapy treatment
  • Liver/Kidney Disease
  • Photosensitivity to 650-660nm of light
  • Immuno-suppressed disorders
Can all skin types be safely treated with i-Lipo Ultra?

Yes, all Body Renewal types can be treated with i-lipo.

How does one get started?

Make an appointment with your nearest Body Renewal / Health Renewal branch near you and get ready to change your life! As Oprah Winfrey once said "Nothing tastes as good as slim feels!"

Body Renewal Tip:

At Body Renewal we have recognized that before one even starts on any body shaping program it is important that one is close to their ideal weight or BMI (Body Mass Index) as possible.

Once the initial 5 to 10 kgs has been lost on the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program, one of the liposculpture treatments such as Cryolipo fat freezing and Velashape and body shaping packages can be started to reduce difficult areas of resistant fat. At Body Renewal, with a combination of treatments, in 6 to 12 months we can take a fat body and turn it into a slim body: firm, smooth and sculpted.

Why is is important to address weight issues as soon as possible?

The importance of early management of any condition cannot be overstated. Once certain conditions set in and damage to organs occurs, complete recovery may be difficult to attain. Best results for prevention and longevity is early detection of a possible problem combined with conventional treatments, nutritional supplements and a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions

Are i-Lipo Ultra treatments available at all Body Renewal branches?
What is i-Lipo?

The i-Lipo is a low-level laser (LLLT) system, also often referred to as a cold laser. This low dose of light targets the adipose (fat) cells in the treatment area, creating a cascade of chemical reactions inside the cells that open transitory pores in the cell membrane and convert the contained triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol. These molecules can then easily pass through the pores in the cell wall to be taken up and transported by the body's lymphatic system for metabolism into energy during the subsequently recommended post-treatment exercise.

How does i-Lipo Ultra LLLT work with the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program?

At Body Renewal we have recognised that the low level laser therapy LLLT body shaping device called i-Lipo helps facilitate weight loss whilst on the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program. Patients who have combined i-Lipo, a low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with their Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program package have seen great results with centimetre reduction and weight loss.

An article published in the American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery in 2010 demonstrated the following:

  • A statistically significant reduction in both serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels following a standard two-week, six treatment LLLT administration.
  • LLLT based on histological evidence has proven to reduce fat mass stored on the waist, hips, and thighs while preventing fat cell death.

The treatment causes the membrane of the fat cell to collapse allowing the triglyceride fat in form of free fatty acids and glycerol to be released and the cell returned to its lean state. These molecules can then easily pass through the pores in the cell wall to be taken up and transported by the body’s lymphatic system for metabolism into energy during the subsequent recommended post treatment exercise session.

Reduced fat mass is associated with the synthesis of beneficial hormones like adiponectin, which promotes insulin sensitivity within numerous tissues. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating the effectiveness of LLLT for potential acute and long-term medical benefits.

How would i-lipo Ultra / LLLT benefits patient on the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program?

i-Lipo LLLT may serve as a valuable addition to dietary programs such as Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program to promote insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes because a lean state is produced in the fat cell.

What benefits does a lean fat cell cell in the body have for obesity?
  • A lean state means improved insulin sensitivity which will result in less insulin needed for glucose metabolism
  • Less insulin means Less fat deposited by the Body
  • Improved synthesis of beneficial hormones like adiponectin which promotes insulin sensitivity within numerous tissues.
What causes Metabolic Syndrome?

The exact mechanisms of the complex pathways of metabolic syndrome are not yet completely known. The pathophysiology is very complex and has been only partially explained. Obesity and insulin resistance from part of a group of conditions that result in syndrome X or the Metabolic Syndrome. Most patients are:

  • Older,
  • Obese,
  • Inactive
  • Stressed
What are the risks and complications of Metabolic Syndrome and its management?

Metabolic Syndrome is a combination of the medical disorders that, when occurring together, increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Some studies have shown the prevalence in the USA to be an estimated 25% of the population and prevalence increases with age. A new, innovative approach to Metabolic Syndrome recognition and treatment is needed since to date, conventional wisdom has failed us. South Africa is also in the midst of a diabetes epidemic. Over the past 20 years, the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes in South Africa has more than doubled, and children are being diagnosed with diabetes in alarming numbers. Diabetes has rapidly emerged as a leading culprit in the epidemic of heart disease, as well as being a leading cause of amputation and blindness among adults.

How does i-Lipo ULTRA work?

The i-lipo uses LLLT which works to empty the fat contents of the target treatment area. These cells remain undamaged and can, therefore, be re-filled in the future if your calorie intake should exceed calorie use. That is why it works so well if combined with the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program.

The i-lipo Ultra vacuum massage combined with LLLT encourages a localised improvement of blood circulation to stimulate and restore healthy cell activity. Physical manipulation of tissue layers promotes increased circulation, to bring oxygen and nutrients to the cells and lymphatic drainage to remove excess toxins and excess fluid that might damage the cells. Temperature increases and the use of specific laser wavelengths initiate fibroblast activity to create brand new connective tissues fibres increasing tissue flexibility.

The vacuum massage handpiece captures tissue drawing it into the aperture and positioning it for optimal laser penetration. Vacuum and massage which encourages optimal circulatory and lymphatic flow.

What areas does the i-Lipo treat?

Abdomen, love handles, inner and outer thighs, bat wings, bra bulges, double chin, knees, ankles and male breast fat reduction.

When can one begin to see results?

Prior to each treatment, the area will be measured. Post-treatment measurements will be done to show your centimetre loss. You will see results after one treatment but for long term results, a series of 8 treatments is advised, performed twice a week for a 4 week duration.

At Body Renewal an exercise bike is available for a 30 minute cardio session directly after your i-lipo treatment to "burn off" the released fat. This is required to reach optimal treatment benefits and to maintain results.

Why would one choose i-Lipo Ultra over invasive Laser Lipolysis and traditional liposuction?
  • i-lipo Ultra low laser level technology (LLLT) offers patients a safe and effective non- invasive laser lipolysis option with no downtime.
  • The success of liposuction and laser lipolysis is highly dependent on the skills and experience of the surgeon, therefore results can vary considerably.
  • LLLT low level laser therapy such as i-Lipo has been proven to restore fat cells to a lean state without inducing cell death which improves insulin resistance

Given the choice, most people would rather choose a non-invasive procedure like i-lipo Ultra to improve their unwanted fat than choose invasive procedures like traditional liposuction and invasive laser lipolysis, which are invasive procedures with post operative side effects and downtime. Liposuction is the most commonly used technique for fat reduction; however, it is associated with severe risks such as embolism, nerve compression, skin necrosis, problems with anaesthesia, infection and seroma.

How may Lipo Ultra improve insulin resistance and the Metabolic Syndrome?

This low dose of light from the i-lipo targets the adipose (fat) cells in the treatment area, creating a cascade of chemical reactions inside the cells that open transitory pores in the cell membrane and convert the contained triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol producing a lean state in the fat cell. Reduced fat mass (a lean state) is associated with the synthesis of beneficial hormones like adiponectin, which promotes insulin sensitivity within numerous tissues.

In addition: An article published in the American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery in 2010 demonstrated the following:

  • A statistically significant reduction in both serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels following a standard two-week, six treatment LLLT administration.
  • LLLT based on histological evidence, has proven to reduce fat mass stored on the waist, hips, and thighs while preventing fat cell death.

On-going clinical trials are evaluating the effectiveness of LLLT for potential acute and long-term medical benefits.

What benefits does a lean fat cell cell in the body have for obesity?
  • A lean state means improved insulin sensitivity which will result in less insulin needed for glucose metabolism
  • Less insulin means less fat deposited by the body
  • Improved synthesis of beneficial hormones like adiponectin which promotes insulin sensitivity within numerous tissues.
What are the risks and complications of Metabolic Syndrome and its management?

Metabolic Syndrome is a combination of the medical disorders that, when occurring together, increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Some studies have shown the prevalence in the USA to be an estimated 25% of the population and prevalence increases with age. A new, innovative approach to Metabolic Syndrome recognition and treatment is needed since to date, conventional wisdom has failed us. South Africa is also in the midst of a diabetes epidemic. Over the past 20 years, the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes in South Africa has more than doubled, and children are being diagnosed with diabetes in alarming numbers. Diabetes has rapidly emerged as a leading culprit in the epidemic of heart disease, as well as being a leading cause of amputation and blindness among adults.

How many i-Lipo treatments are needed?

Although single treatments of i-lipo Ultra will produce immediate results and centimetre loss a course of combination treatment sessions is advised to produce maximum benefit. For most patients a course of eight sessions is advised, performed twice per week for a four week duration. It is advised that only a single anatomical treatment zone is treated at any one time. Additional treatments or anatomical locations can be treated after the first course of sessions has been completed. Single maintenance treatments in the future can be scheduled as per your specific needs.

Is i-Lipo safe?

Yes, i-lipo treatments are safe. You may experience a very mild warming sensation of the skin under each treatment pad towards the end of each 10 minute section of the treatment. Patients with very dark or tanned skin colour may experience slight redness in small dots where each laser aperture was located on the skin. This is temporary and can remain for several hours after the treatment. In very extreme cases this may develop into temporary hyper-pigmentation and may last for a day or two.

i-Lipo Ultra is contraindicated for the following patients?
  • Pregnant
  • Epilepsy
  • Uncontrolled Hypertension
  • Cardiac Arrhythmias or Heart Disease
  • Pacemakers
  • Recent or current history of cancer, or actively undergoing radiation or chemotherapy treatment
  • Liver/Kidney Disease
  • Photosensitivity to 650-660nm of light
  • Immuno-suppressed disorders
Can all skin types be safely treated with i-Lipo Ultra?

Yes, all Body Renewal types can be treated with i-lipo.

How does one get started?

Make an appointment with your nearest Body Renewal / Health Renewal branch near you and get ready to change your life! As Oprah Winfrey once said "Nothing tastes as good as slim feels!"

Body Renewal Tip:

At Body Renewal we have recognized that before one even starts on any body shaping program it is important that one is close to their ideal weight or BMI (Body Mass Index) as possible.

Once the initial 5 to 10 kgs has been lost on the Body Renewal Medical Weight loss program, one of the liposculpture treatments such as Cryolipo fat freezing and Velashape and body shaping packages can be started to reduce difficult areas of resistant fat. At Body Renewal, with a combination of treatments, in 6 to 12 months we can take a fat body and turn it into a slim body: firm, smooth and sculpted.

Why is is important to address weight issues as soon as possible?

The importance of early management of any condition cannot be overstated. Once certain conditions set in and damage to organs occurs, complete recovery may be difficult to attain. Best results for prevention and longevity is early detection of a possible problem combined with conventional treatments, nutritional supplements and a healthy diet and lifestyle.