LipoMelt is a procedure which helps dissolve fat. The procedure has been around for at least 3 decades and widely used in Europe. The procedure has been modified and used in North America for about 3-4 years. It basically involves a series of miniscule injections of chemicals which dissolve localized areas of fat deposits.
In addition to the injections, we utilize our radio frequency device to heat up the treatment area prior to the injections. Our ‘Accent’ device has been approved by the FDA and tightens loose and lax skin as well as reduces cellulite. These results are accomplished by heating the area via the use of bipolar and unipolar radio frequencies. The heat that is caused by the device stimulates the reorganization of collagen fibers which, over time, causes the skin to tighten.
LipoMelt is a procedure which involves micro-injections of a formulation consisting of two naturally occurring chemicals, phosphatidylcholine and deoxycholate, into the fatty areas. These chemicals act like detergents and have the ability to dissolve fat. Both these substance are normally secreted and stored in the gall bladder and help in the digestion of fat.
Generally a brief exam of the body is done and all possible areas are photographed and marked. Because the results are gradual, most physicians tend to record size of the lesions and obtain pre and post procedure photographs.
Generally 2-3 large areas are treated in one session. The swelling and tenderness does increase with the volume of injection and this is a limiting factor for therapy. One has to be aware that numerous cosmetic centers have been known to use dilute products with poor results.
Even though LipoMelt is a minor procedure, it should always be performed by a trained and certified physician or registered nurse. Improper use and use by non professionals can lead to complications.
Generally, proper and safe injection of the solution does not affect the skin or muscles.
Who is a candidate for LipoMelt?
Generally LipoMelt is a minor procedure and unlike surgery is used to remove small amounts of fat in localized areas. The physician will examine you prior to the patient and determine if you are the right candidate. Unlike liposuction, LipoMelt is only meant to remove small pockets of fat in the body.
What happens to the fat after LipoMelt?
The LipoMelt breaks down the fat which is later cleaned up by the body’s scavenging cells. This scavenging process takes a few weeks and cleans up the treated area. The removal of fat is permanent and the surrounding areas become flat and compact. Often LipoMelt has been used to correct the unevenness seen after liposuction and lipoplasty.
Is LipoMelt Effective?
The results of LipoMelt are variable and the results are dependent on the size of the area treated. The majority of individuals show a loss of at least 2-6 cm per treatment. The highest fat loss typically occurs in the waist/belly and the lowest fat loss occurs in the legs.
Is LipoMelt treatment permanent?
Unfortunately not so. If the individual gains weight the fat will return. The best results are obtained when physical activity and dietary changes are continued after LipoMelt.
How many treatments are required?
This strictly depends on the area and size of the fat deposits, in most cases, 1-4 sessions may be required. Each session lasts about 30-45 minutes. At least 4-6 weeks are allowed in between each session to allow for the full effect of the therapy. The procedure is strictly elective and should be done in a relaxed atmosphere.
What are side effects of LipoMelt?
The procedure is associated with mild pain during the injection. After the procedure, some individuals may complain of a mild bruising, swelling, tenderness and a burning sensation in the area of injection. The mild soreness and bruising usually dissipates in over 4-7 days.
When will I see results?
The results of LipoMelt are gradual and take a few months to become obvious. Results of smaller areas become more noticeable in a few weeks but most individuals require a few months. A loss of 2-3 inches of fat usually requires at least 2-4 sessions of therapy and results may take a few months.
When can one return to normal activity?
The majority of individuals can return to normal activity within 1-2 days. For those with facial bruising, the cosmetic features may appear unattractive until the bruising subsides in such cases, a week to 10 days should be allowed to recover. However, most individuals can return to work within 3-4 days.
Is LipoMelt safe?
Yes, it is considered very safe. It is a mixture of naturally occurring substances that are found in the body. The mixture that is injected is primarily a combination of naturally occurring chemical (phosphatidylcholine also known as soy lecithin) and vitamins. These supplements are essential for numerous functions of our body. To date, no major side effects or complications have been observed with LipoMelt.
What is difference between LipoMelt and mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a slower process and requires the use of stronger chemicals. The procedure requires numerous sessions and is much more expensive than LipoMelt. LipoMelt contains a standardized mixture of naturally occurring chemicals, requires smaller injections, fewer sessions and the response is much more rapid.
Is the procedure covered by medical insurance?
No, the entire procedure is considered cosmetic and not covered.
