Press Release: Introducing a Research Plan (07-2002)
Dr. Thomas A. Hagerty of the Mid Hudson Plastic Surgery in Kingston today announced that he is undertaking a research plan to determine the effects of truncal lipectomy (liposuction - targeted fat removal) on cardiac (heart disease) risk. A group of 60 patient volunteers will be studied. This research will specifically assess the effect of truncal contour (shaping of the trunk, mid-section region of the body, through fat removal) on truncal shape risk reduction and the effect of adipose (fat) reduction on improving HDL and other serum risk parameters. "In other words," Dr. Hagerty explained, "the study will attempt to determine if there is a reduction in cardiac risk as a result of liposuction in the truck/mid-section area of the body."
The reduction of HDL cholesterol levels have been recognized as a highly significant independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The cause of increased risk associated with waist circumference, truncal diameter, and associated indices is not known. Dr. Hagerty added "What is known, however, is that increased plasma triglyceride levels are associated with increased HDL consumption (the "good" cholesterol)." He continued, " It is hypothesized that central adipose (fat) deposits provide source target tissue for elevated triglycerides, which in turn reduce protective levels of HDL."
Dr. Hagerty plans to analyze the effect of truncal lipectomy (using liposuction) or abdominoplasty on various cardiovascular risk parameters. The study will include assessment of dietary and exercise parameters using a lifestyle assessment questionnaires. Measurements will be taken prior to surgery and postoperatively, at three and six months.
Dr. Hagerty is a member of the American society of plastic surgeons and is sponsoring this study in conjunction with another member of the society, Dr. Pagan, who will cosponsor the research project at another plastic surgery center. Volunteers are being sought through classified ads in local newspapers. Dr. Hagerty concluded by saying, "Because this research has the potential of obtaining extremely important results, candidates chosen for the research study will receive a 20% discount off the surgeon's regular fee for liposuction or tummy tuck. Any adult, male or female, considering liposuction for the trunk area and may be interested in participating in the study, can contact Dr. Hagerty at the Mid Hudson Plastic Surgery Center, (845) 338-0789.
The reduction of HDL cholesterol levels have been recognized as a highly significant independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The cause of increased risk associated with waist circumference, truncal diameter, and associated indices is not known. Dr. Hagerty added "What is known, however, is that increased plasma triglyceride levels are associated with increased HDL consumption (the "good" cholesterol)." He continued, " It is hypothesized that central adipose (fat) deposits provide source target tissue for elevated triglycerides, which in turn reduce protective levels of HDL."
Dr. Hagerty plans to analyze the effect of truncal lipectomy (using liposuction) or abdominoplasty on various cardiovascular risk parameters. The study will include assessment of dietary and exercise parameters using a lifestyle assessment questionnaires. Measurements will be taken prior to surgery and postoperatively, at three and six months.
Dr. Hagerty is a member of the American society of plastic surgeons and is sponsoring this study in conjunction with another member of the society, Dr. Pagan, who will cosponsor the research project at another plastic surgery center. Volunteers are being sought through classified ads in local newspapers. Dr. Hagerty concluded by saying, "Because this research has the potential of obtaining extremely important results, candidates chosen for the research study will receive a 20% discount off the surgeon's regular fee for liposuction or tummy tuck. Any adult, male or female, considering liposuction for the trunk area and may be interested in participating in the study, can contact Dr. Hagerty at the Mid Hudson Plastic Surgery Center, (845) 338-0789.
