Overview
Lipodissolve is suitable for both men and women especially for those who have stubborn localised fatty areas. It is a nonsurgical method of body contouring and can be used as an alternative to minor liposculpture surgery. Lipodissolve injections should not be regarded as a new miracle drug for weight reduction however they can be very effective for small fatty deposits that cannot be removed by diet or exercise.
Lipodissolve is best used to reduce and sculpt small specific areas of the body around the stomach, upper arms, thighs, hips, etc; but for much larger areas or fatty areas liposuction is still the best option.
Lipodissolve is one of the most commonly used medicines in Mesotherapy today. Mesotherapy is a general term describing a technique that utilizes a series of microinjections of conventional or homeopathic medicines.
Phosphatidylcholine (PPC) is a naturally occurring substance in every cell of the body. One of its many functions is that it helps maintain and control what is going in and out of the cell; it also increases HDL levels (more commonly known as the good cholesterol) within the body. Naturally occurring PPC in the body is medically proven to reduce cholesterol, increase metabolism and enhance liver and cellular functions.
Lipodissolve (Phosphatidylcholine – PPC) is a natural product produced from soya beans and is compatible and able to be used to simulate one of the body’s own PPC functions in assisting with fat metabolism.
The Procedure
When Lipodissolve is injected directly into the mesoderm (middle layer of the skin) it initiates the breakdown of fat accumulation in that specific area. This limits the risks of side effects and treats the localised areas safely and efficiently. To ensure a smooth reduction of the fat deposit, it is important to achieve the adequate and necessary concentration of Phosphatidylcholine in every part of the treated area.
After consultation with a nurse or doctor the consent is given and photos of the areas are taken. At Dr Rich’s, the enRich Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Centre only doctors inject Lipodissolve. After the skin is cleansed, small amounts of Lipodissolve (PPC) is evenly injected directly into the fatty areas to obtain a smooth result. Lipodissolve treatments usually take between 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the area(s) you are having treated.
Using different techniques, Lipodissolve is also effective in the treatment of cellulite when used in combination with other medicines and vitamins or minerals.
Recovery Process
All patients can expect symptoms such as reddening, swelling, bruising, burning and itching for around 72 hours following injection treatments. These symptoms are usually minor and after a few days, any discomfort at the treated region should have disappeared. You should, however, contact the clinic immediately if you develop extreme pain or excessive inflammation in the area treated. In most cases, patients experience little if any downtime, with most resuming normal activities immediately after treatment. In rare cases, some patients may feel light-headed and may need to rest post treatment for a period of time.
Considerations
The number of treatments may differ from person to person, depending upon body region and body size. As a rule, three to six treatments at intervals of four weeks are usually necessary for successful treatment. Research has shown that more than 80% of patients are very satisfied with the results after two to three treatments. Sunbathing, saunas and excessive over heating should avoided for the first week.
Risks and Complications
Most complications are transitory only, lasting from only a few hours to a week. In the first 72 hours, mild to moderate swelling, erythema (redness) and localised heat sensations may occur. Some patients may also experience slight to moderate itching in the first week. It is generally recommended for women to avoid therapy during their monthly cycle as the treatment can be more uncomfortable and increased bruising is common. Rarely, other complications as infections, allergic reactions, and tissue irregularities on the body or even tissue necrosis may occur.
FAQs
How does Lipodissolve work?
Lipodissolve works by causing a localised breakdown of fat, where the fat cell wall dissolves to release the fat in an emulsified form to be transported to the liver for elimination.
Is Lipodissolve safe?
Phosphatidylcholine is made from a natural enzyme. However, in rare circumstances side effects may occur. These may include temporary bruising, itching, soreness and localized pain. Long-term side effects are unknown at this stage, although clinic safety and results have been good.
Will the fat in the treated areas return?
No, the dissolved fat has not been reported to return. But new weight gain can build up new fat in the same areas. The treatment has a 95% success rate with very few risks or side effects. Exercise and diet in addition to Lipodissolve treatment has shown extended long-term results. Phosphatidylcholine injections are not a substitute to diet and exercise, or fat loss solution for highly obese persons.
