Carbon Dioxide Therapy (Carboxytherapy)

By Raphael Nach, MD

Published on July 12, 2007

Used to complement liposuction, this new and innovative technique can also help with skin irregularity

In 2004, a group of doctors described the addition of carbon dioxide therapy as an adjunctive treatment for conventional liposuction. For successful conventional liposuction, it is necessary to consider the competence of the surgeon as well as the physical and physiological state of the patient. A poor result is often related to the persistence of fatty tissue irregularity in the operated sites.

This complication, common to this kind of surgery, led to the research and determination that the addition of CO2 gas administered below the skin into the subcutaneous tissues would reduce and or eliminate these localized postoperative accumulations of fat. Alternative forms of treatment have been used to assist the general recuperative process, but none have been successful in eliminating these localized fatty deposits. This is why the arrival of Carboxytherapy was so received.

Carboxytherapy is an innovative, safe, effective therapy that improves the elasticity of the overlying skin. It is used for skin irregularities, skin tightening, and as a complementary treatment to liposuction (for residual fatty deposits).

The procedure works two ways. First, it kills fat cells through a process called lipolysis. Second, it causes blood vessels to dilate, which increases blood flow – and hence oxygenation – to the area. In the process it eliminates the built up fluids between the cells. The end result is fewer fat cells and firmer tissues.

Carboxytherapy can be used to treat any part of the body. It is therapeutic and highly efficient for cellulite, and is ideal for women of any age.

The procedure is safe, relatively painless, and simple to perform. No anesthesia is required, and there are no restrictions following treatment.

Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of metabolism, during which it is transported in the blood and exhaled. It is naturally produced by the cells in our bodies every day and is non-toxic.

Between 15 and 20 sessions are needed and, depending on what needs to be done, it is performed either once or twice a week. Each session lasts about 15 minutes.

Results are noticeable after the fifth treatment, and after eight to ten treatments you will notice that the skin is more firm.

The results of Carboxytherapy are affected by diet and exercise. Like all rejuvenation treatments, maintenance treatments should be carried out every 3-6 months.

Side effects are minimal and resolve very quickly, and include mild pain at the injection site, a crackling sensation of the skin, and possible bruising of the tissues. None of these leave any lasting esthetic effects.

For more information on the author, please visit http://www.drnach.com