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Gary R. Culbertson, MD, FACS
- Iris Surgery Center
18 Miller Road
Sumter, SC 29150 - Tel: Click for phone number
- Fax: 803-773-6009
- Send E-mail
- www.garyculbertson.com
Answered Questions
Q:
Is Zerona the only evidence-based medical device?
I read a post from Dr. Culbertson who said Zerona does not have any science and it is a waste of a patient's time. I had Zerona performed. As a physician, I selected a procedure that underwent a Level 1 clinical study, and surprisingly it was the only device having undergone this quality of study. If I can find the placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind study, then why can't other plastic surgeons?
A:
It is one thing to exclaim, it is another to disclose. Your failure to identify your reference makes me question your intention. Hopefully, as a physician you realize it is important to disclose and identify conflicts of interest such as, a financial interest in Zerona.
Best,
Gary R. Culbertson, MD, FACS
Q:
Do you typically perform liposuction on someone who is obese, but losing weight?
I have Fibromyalgia and I have excess fat on my arms and hips. It would help reduce some of my pain, specifically on my arms, if I could have them reduced. Also, my hips have considerable pain as my love handles burn at night as I sleep on them. I am obese but losing some weight. Could liposuction be performed on me at this point?
A:
Liposuction is not for Fibromyalgia. It could make it worse.
Many studies have shown that exercise and weight loss programs really are beneficial in the treatment of this disorder. Consult with the physician who takes care of your Fibromyalgia first. Then, set a goal of a certain weight loss.
Patients who first lose weight prior to a body contouring or liposuction procedure tend to maintain a better long term result.
If your Fibromyalgia physician thinks your are stable with the disorder and you have met your goal weight, seek out a member of ASAPS for a consultation to address your concerns.
Best,
Gary R. Culbertson,,MD,FACS
Q:
What is your opinion of the Zerona treatment and does it work?
What is your opinion of the Zerona treatment and does it work? Thank you.
A:
My personal opinion of Zerona, based upon data presented at our national meetings, is that it is not worth your time or expense.
Best,
Gary R. Culbertson, MD, FACS
Q:
Can you explain the difference between SmartLipo and traditional Liposuction?
I'm a healthy 48 year old male with "love handles" and belly fat. I have never been overweight and stay in the range of 175 to 180 pounds. I exercise and watch my diet. Would liposuction be the procedure necessary to get rid of the love handles and belly fat? What is the difference between SmartLipo and traditional liposuction? Thank you.
A:
Yes, since you have tried diet and exercise without resolution of these love handles, liposuction should help. We have found patients that lose some weight before a liposuction procedure tend to do much better long term than those who do not. I believe it is a motivational issue to keep their weight stable.
Laser assisted liposuction is an adjuvant to liposuction. There are many such assistants, including water assisted, ultrasound assisted, radio frequency assisted, etc., to name but a few. They all make claims to improve the liposuction experience/technique. Consult with a member of ASAPS to see which method would be best in your case and for your concerns.
Best,
Gary R. Culbertson, MD, FACS
Q:
Is it safe to have Rhinoplasty following Botox injections?
I am scheduled to have reconstructive rhinoplasty, but have received Botox injections covering the usual areas including my nose to treat "bunny lines." Is it safe or advisable to have surgery on my nose following the Botox?
A:
The administration of the Botox should not affect your Rhinoplasty procedure.
Best,
Gary R. Culbertson, MD, FACS