Photo Credit: Photo courtesy of Dr. Ray Lopez

At the forefront of cosmetic and reconstructive foot surgery, Dr. Raymond Lopez has developed multiple procedures to deliver the outcomes his patients desire, utilizing the latest in technology and surgical techniques. It is Dr. Lopez’s passion to offer his patients the latest techniques in minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery providing his patients beauty and confidence with every step. Haute Beauty chats with Dr. Lopez about his innovative treatment called Pump Pads™.

HB: What are Pump Pads ™?

The Pump-Pad ™ procedure is an in-office procedure to treat foot pain experienced when wearing high heels. Foot cushioning’ with dermal fillers is the latest treatment being demanded by those ladies who desire beautiful heels, made famous by shoe styles from designers such as Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik, requiring gravity-defying postures and put significant pressure on the metatarsal bones within the foot, hence the desire for something to `cushion` and make the wearing of the shoes more comfortable.

Photo Credit: Photo Courtesy of Dr. Ray Lopez

HB: How do Pump Pads™ work?

It is commonly known that wearing high heeled shoes for extended periods of time can cause a significant amount of pain in the ball of the foot. This is usually due to fat pad atrophy, or the diminishing of the pads that cushion the bottom of the foot. The Pump-Pads ™ procedure is performed to replenish atrophied fat pads with a high-density hyaluronic acid dermal filler, cushioning their step, and enabling patients to walk pain-free in the heels they love.   

Photo Credit: Photo Courtesy of Dr. Ray Lopez

HB: Who is the best candidate for this procedure?

Though fat pad atrophy can be seen in both males and females, it is more common in females who often wear high heels for an extended period of time. 

HB: How does this treatment compare to others of the same nature?

The Pump-Pad ™ procedure utilizes a high g prime dermal filler which, when injected into the areas of the fat pad, not only promotes fat pad rejuvenation, but also provides a long-lasting cushion. In some cases where a significant amount of fat pad atrophy is noted,  the dermal filler may also be augmented with nano fat grafting. 

HB: How long is the procedure & What does recovery look like?

Pup-Pad ™ treatment takes between 15-30 minutes depending on the amount of filler used and if any fat grafting is necessary. Patients can return to normal activity the same day and will notice results immediately.