The Risks of Unapproved Fat-Dissolving Injections: Ethical Solutions from Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery

Understanding the dangers of fat-dissolving injections

In the quest for achieving the ideal physique, many individuals are turning to cosmetic procedures such as fat-dissolving injections to sculpt and contour specific areas. However, the recent warning issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sheds light on the potential hazards associated with unauthorized fat-dissolving injections. The FDA has received reports of severe side effects, including scarring, infections, and skin deformities, from individuals using unapproved injections. We aim to explore the risks posed by these non-FDA-approved treatments and emphasize the safe and ethical methods employed by Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery to ensure clients’ well-being and desired results.

Understanding Fat-Dissolving Injections

According to the Food and Drug Administration, fat-dissolving injections, also known as lipolysis injections, are nonsurgical procedures designed to break down fat cells beneath the skin. While FDA-approved injections, such as KYBELLA®, have undergone rigorous evaluation for safety and effectiveness, unauthorized products with names like Aqualyx, Lipodissolve, Lipo Lab, and Kabelline pose significant risks. Common ingredients found in the non-FDA-approved fat-dissolving injectables including phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and sodium deoxycholate (DC) have been linked to adverse reactions.

Here at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery, we emphasize safe and ethical procedures with our valued patients. Our patient’s well-being and safety is our main priority, while also delivering the highest quality results.

Risks and Adverse Reactions:Fat Dissolving Injectable result [Photo by Kaur et al., 2022, Am J Dermatopathol; NBC News author Berkeley Lovelace Jr.]

Reports to the FDA have detailed adverse reactions from consumers, including permanent scars, serious infections, skin deformities, cysts, and painful knots. Some individuals received injections from unlicensed personnel at clinics or med spas, while others purchased the unapproved products online, attempting self-administration. The potential dangers escalate when considering improper injection techniques, which can lead to scarring, skin infections, and severe complications.

When it comes to injectables, prioritizing your safety and well-being is paramount – it’s crucial to go to licensed professionals, like those at Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery in Washington, DC, for expert care and optimal results.

[Photo by Kaur et al., 2022, Am J Dermatopathol; NBC News author Berkeley Lovelace Jr.]

FDA-Approved Alternatives

According to NBC News, KYBELLA®, a prescription drug approved by the FDA, stands as the sole fat-dissolving injectable authorized for reducing chin fat in adults. The FDA stresses that this  should only be administered by healthcare professionals. Bruno|Brown Plastic Surgery aligns with FDA recommendations, emphasizing the importance of FDA-approved injections administered by trained and licensed professionals.

KYBELLA® stands out as the inaugural FDA-approved injectable crafted for addressing localized fat deposits, notably fullness beneath the chin. Our skilled practitioners at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery also recommend this innovative treatment as it offers a more meticulous and precise approach compared to alternative techniques. Prior to initiating the treatment, our experienced doctors conduct a thorough examination of the targeted areas to assess suitability, ensuring a tailored cosmetic approach that aligns with your specific aesthetic objectives.

We also administer PRP therapy which can be combined with collagen inducing treatments like micro-needlinglaser skin resurfacing, and/or other injectables such as Juvederm and Botox to best target a patient’s unique issues and thus achieve the final goal of younger looking skin. PRP can also be used to help improve thinning hair through a series of injections in the scalp.

Dermal fillers can restore your facial volume and create smoother skin. Fillers are a non-invasive alternative to surgical procedures, such as a facelift. Dermal fillers are available in many different formulas, and the exact approach we will use depends on your facial rejuvenation goals.

We use a range of Juvederm products, including:

  • SKINVIVE™
  • Volbella®
  • Vollure™
  • Voluma™
  • Volux™
  • Volux™ XC

For injectable procedures, it is imperative to consult with a certified and licensed professional to ensure the utmost care and the highest quality result.

Safe Practices at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery

At Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery, client safety and ethical practices are our top priority. Our expert surgeons prioritize comprehensive consultations to understand clients’ desires and tailor procedures accordingly. Unlike the risks associated with unapproved injections, our team ensures the correct number and location of injections, proper needle placement, and a safe administration technique.

As the FDA warns against the dangers of unauthorized fat-dissolving injections, it is crucial to prioritize safety and choose reputable practices. Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery remains committed to providing clients with FDA-approved procedures, ensuring optimal results without compromising health. In the pursuit of aesthetic enhancements, let’s prioritize well-being, choosing the path of safety, and ethical practices.

Looking to learn more about Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery’s injectable procedures? Contact us today!

Facelift vs. Fillers: Which is the Best Choice for a Youthful Appearance?

Are you looking for a solution to combat the signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin? Two popular cosmetic procedures are facelifts and fillers.

How do you decide which option is right for you? We’ll compare and contrast facelifts vs. fillers to help you make an informed decision.

Facelift: The Ultimate Solution for Deep Wrinkles and Sagging Skin

A facelift procedure is a surgery that combines surgical and non-invasive techniques to give you that snatched, supple face you had when you were young. Facelifts were the third most popular cosmetic procedure in 2020, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A facelift often combines a variety of different techniques and procedures into one. To get the perfect youthful skin you once had, you will have to have a consultation to figure out the perfect facelift surgery for you.

Facelift Benefits:
Facelift results can make you appear 12 years younger! Here are just some of the benefits:Before and after Facelift

  • Targets lose or sagging skin
  • Erases fold lines
  • Gets rid of fat that has fallen
  • Chisels your jawline
  • Can help with double chins

Facelift Risks:
Like every surgical procedure, facelifts can cause complications. This is why we recommend board-certified plastic surgeons. Facelift risks include but are not limited to:

  • Hematoma
  • Scarring
  • Facial hair loss
  • Skin loss
  • Nerve injury

Before you proceed, all risks should be covered in your consultation with your surgeon.

Fillers: The Non-Surgical Solution for Mild to Moderate Signs of Aging

Fillers are the non-invasive alternative to the surgical facelift procedure. Fillers are small injections to create smoother skin and a fuller appearance.

Benefits of Fillers:Dr. Bruno giving facial fillers
Fillers have a smooth and youthful effect on your skin. Some of the benefits of dermal fillers include:

  • Fuller wrinkles
  • Smooth lines on the skin
  • Restore volume to your face

Risks of Fillers:
Filler injections can have risks that you need to consider; some of these include:

  • Asymmetry
  • Eruption of acne
  • Bruising, scarring, wounds
  • Infection
  • Lumps
  • Skin irritation

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Facelifts vs. Fillers

Both facelifts and fillers are effective ways to get that gorgeous youthful skin back to its prime. There are several factors to consider when deciding between a facelift and fillers, including:

  • A facelift will last longer than fillers. Face fillers are injections, similar to Botox; you will have to continue to go back to the doctor to continue to maintain that look.
  • Facelift is a surgical procedure. A facelift takes about 3 to 5 hours with a recovery time of 2 to 3 weeks. While fillers take 20 to 30 minutes and there is no recovery time.
  • Face fillers do not target the elasticity of the skin. In a facelift, you get the added benefit of getting rid of excess fat and sagging skin, which fillers do not address.

If you’re considering a facelift or fillers, schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discover your best anti-aging solution today.

Pucker Up For Valentine’s Day With 20% Off Filler

Valentines Day Filler SpecialBook Now and Get 20% Off Per Syringe of Filler

You deserve to treat yourself. As a gift to you, we are running a sweet deal. All of our filler is 20% off during the month of February.

Book your appointment here and pucker up just in time for Valentine’s day!

*Filler discount is limited to 5 purchases per customer. This deal is limited quantity while supplies last. Patients must schedule an appointment by February 28th.

THIS OFFER HAS EXPIRED.

Special Offer: $75 Off Juvéderm

Lip Filler DC

THIS OFFER HAS EXPIRED.

Only while supplies last, don’t delay!

For a limited time, get $75 off any Juvéderm treatment at Bruno | Brown.

Click here to sign up and redeem your special offer code. 

Limited time offer, while supplies last. Only one per customer. Valid for new and existing Brilliant Distinctions members. Special offer code must be presented to redeem offer. Offer must be redeemed by November 2020.

To view the full terms and conditions, please click here.

 

Washington, DC: Have you heard of the nonsurgical nose job?

Filler isn’t just for fuller lips and the reduction of fine lines, it can also be used for a non-surgical nose job.

Nonsurgical Nose Job Washington DCYou may have seen it on Instagram, but what exactly is a nonsurgical nose job?

A nonsurgical nose job, sometimes referred to as ‘liquid rhinoplasty,’ is when filler is injected into the nose to recreate bone structure, perfect the slope of the nose, or reduce the appearance of bumps and an uneven structure.

It is a relatively new procedure that focuses on the small changes that can be achieved with dermal fillers. A few small injections of a hyaluronic filler can have a big effect on the appearance of one’s nose.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, one of the most common issues treated with the nonsurgical rhinoplasty is a pronounced bump along the nasal bridge.

Carefully placed filler injections can plump up the area around the bump, which gives the illusion of a straight nose. A nonsurgical nose job can also smooth small indentations, create a straighter looking nasal bridge, and lift a drooping nose tip. By making slight tweaks to the nose with filler injections, the overall appearance and facial symmetry can be improved.

Dissolvable and reversible, a nonsurgical nose job is great for those not ready to commit to rhinoplasty surgery. The ideal patient is looking for mild to moderate improvements in the shape or appearance of their nose. The benefits of a nonsurgical nose job are temporary, typically lasting from 12 to 18 months. No anesthesia is necessary; for the patient’s comfort, the doctors at Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery will use a topical numbing cream.

Some benefits of a nonsurgical nose job in Washington, DC:

  • No downtime
  • Bruising and swelling are minimal
  • Procedure takes less than an hour
  • Results are immediate
  • Changes are reversible
  • Benefits last approximately 12 months
  • Dramatic results

If you’re interested in discussing your nonsurgical nose job in Washington, DC, contact us today for your consultation!