In recent years, the quest for effective body contouring and skin rejuvenation has led to innovative treatments that offer remarkable results. One such treatment gaining popularity is mesotherapy, a non-invasive procedure that has been making waves in the aesthetic industry. What is mesotherapy? It’s a technique that involves injecting small amounts of specially formulated substances, including hyaluronic acid, into the skin to address various cosmetic concerns, including cellulite reduction, wrinkle smoothing, and fat reduction.
Mesotherapy has an impact on different aspects of aesthetic enhancement, offering a versatile approach to tackle common concerns. Here we delve into the mesotherapy procedure, exploring its effectiveness for fat reduction and comparing it to other body contouring methods. We’ll also examine the benefits of fat dissolving injections, their potential side effects, and what to expect before and after treatment. By the end, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of mesotherapy and its role in modern aesthetic medicine.
What is Mesotherapy Treatment?
- Mesotherapy treatment is a non-invasive, non-surgical technique that uses micro-injections of natural extracts, vitamins, and amino acids to target unwanted fat, improve skin quality, and stimulate collagen production.
- The treatment is designed to dissolve fat cells, reduce superficial wrinkles, and give the skin a more youthful appearance.
- Mesotherapy treatment is a customised treatment that can be tailored to address individual skin concerns and skin type.
How Mesotherapy Works
- Mesotherapy works by injecting a bespoke blend of natural extracts, vitamins, and amino acids into the mesoderm layer of the skin, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.
- The treatment stimulates collagen production, improves sluggish blood circulation, and helps to flush out ageing toxins.
- The solution breaks down fat deposits, enhances skin texture, and stimulates collagen production.
Benefits of Mesotherapy
- Mesotherapy can instantly improve dull, tired-looking skin and superficial wrinkles including mesotherapy for face and stomach.
- The treatment can also be used to address hyperpigmentation, treat acne, and achieve a “lit-from-within” skin glow.
- Mesotherapy can nourish, repair, and rejuvenate skin with over 50 ingredients in a typical cocktail.
The Mesotherapy Procedure
Consultation and Preparation
Before undergoing mesotherapy, patients must have a thorough physical examination to determine their suitability for the treatment. The practitioner will make a definitive diagnosis regarding the patient’s concerns and develop a personalised treatment plan. This plan includes selecting the appropriate solution containing vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts tailored to the individual’s needs .
To minimise the risk of bruising, patients should avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements such as aspirin, fish oils, ibuprofen, and alcohol for a few days prior to treatment . Additionally, it’s advisable to stop using topical products containing Tretinoin, Retinols, Retinoids, or Glycolic Acid for three days before the procedure .
What to Expect During Treatments
Mesotherapy involves injecting small amounts of specially formulated solutions into the middle layer (mesoderm) of the skin using very fine needles. Although some may worry about mesotherapy being painful, it is generally manageable and often described as a minor injection scratch. The procedure can be performed manually or with a mechanical gun to deliver multiple injections in succession.
Before the injections, a numbing cream may be applied to the treatment area to enhance comfort. The depth of the injections can vary from 1 to 4 millimetres, depending on the condition being treated. The practitioner may insert the needle at an angle or use a quick flicking motion of the wrist while injecting.
Each injection typically delivers a tiny drop of solution into the skin, with injection points spaced approximately one inch apart. The number of injections and the concentration of ingredients can vary based on the individual patient’s needs.
The treatment lasts about 20-45 minutes and involves tiny injection scratches on the skin.
Mild discomfort and slight bruising may occur, but these side effects are temporary and rare.
Pre- and Post-Treatment Care
After the mesotherapy procedure, patients should follow specific guidelines to ensure optimal results and minimise potential side effects:
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medication prior to the procedure to reduce bruising risk.
- Obtain a letter of consent from your GP if you’re on blood-thinning medication.
- Avoid hot baths, showers, and extreme activities for 48 hours after treatment.
- Refrain from wearing tight clothing that may affect blood circulation.
- Limit physical exertion for the first two days following the procedure.
- Do not apply makeup to the treated area for 10-15 hours after the session.
- Maintain a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and high-protein foods.
To reduce swelling, bruising, and redness, patients can apply cold compresses or cold gels to the treated area . It’s crucial to keep the area clean and avoid scratching or applying pressure to prevent infection.
Patients may experience some redness, swelling, itching, or mild bruising at the injection sites, which typically subsides within a week . Most individuals can resume their normal activities immediately after the treatment, making mesotherapy a convenient option for those seeking skin rejuvenation and fat reduction.
Where can Fat Dissolving Injections be used
Aqualyx Fat Reduction Injection can be used in the following areas:
- Stomach (inc. Sixpack definition)
- Love handles
- Arms
- Chin
- Flanks and waist
- Inner and outer thighs
- Underarms and armpits
- Under-bra area
It is important to know that fat dissolving injections are a body contouring and sculpting treatment, not a weight loss solution. Treatments with fat dissolving injections are only advisable for small, localised areas. Patients must be within one stone of their recommended body weight to have the treatment and be able to pinch about 3cm of fat.
Effectiveness of Fat Dissolving Injections on Fat Cells
Fat dissolving injections have gained popularity as a non-invasive treatment for eliminating unwanted fat. These injections, which contain a plant compound solution featuring deoxycholic acid, work by destabilising fat cells and causing them to liquify . The effectiveness of these injections has been the subject of various studies and patient experiences.
Clinical studies and evidence
Research has shown that fat dissolving injections, particularly those using Aqualyx, have low associated risks and complications. These injections are approved by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), and minimal side effects have been reported globally since their introduction . Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of these treatments, with results published in peer-reviewed medical journals .
One study focusing on PC-DC cocktail for lipolysis found it to be effective in reducing localised fat, especially in the face and bra roll areas of younger women (20-30 years old) . The study observed that the effects were most noticeable in facial areas, including malar, mandibular, and submental regions, as well as the arms .
Patient satisfaction rates
Patient satisfaction rates have varied depending on the treatment area and injection volume. In one study, satisfaction rates ranged from 74.4% to 86.6%, with higher rates associated with larger injection volumes . When separated for body sculpting and cellulite treatment, satisfaction rates were 81% and 44%, respectively .
Factors affecting results
Several factors influence the effectiveness of fat dissolving injections:
- Treatment area: Results may vary depending on the specific body part being treated .
- Number of sessions: Multiple treatments are often required for optimal results .
- Hydration: Drinking enough water helps with lymphatic drainage, enhancing the treatment’s effectiveness .
- Individual physiology and general health .
The amount of fat reduction can vary, with abdominal circumference reductions ranging from 0.125 to 3 inches per treatment, averaging 1.1 inches . It’s important to note that fat dissolving injections are not a weight loss treatment but rather a method to target stubborn small to medium pockets of fat that resist diet and exercise .
To maintain results, patients are advised to follow a healthy eating regime, as existing fat cells can still increase in size with a poor diet . Additionally, the treatment may cause temporary side effects such as swelling, bruising, and tenderness, which typically subside within a few days to weeks.
Comparing Mesotherapy to Other Fat Reduction Methods
Liposuction
Liposuction has long been a popular surgical option for fat removal. However, it comes with significant drawbacks. As a surgical procedure, liposuction carries risks such as bleeding, infection, and scarring. The recovery period can be uncomfortable and prolonged . In contrast, mesotherapy offers a minimally invasive alternative. It uses injections of specially formulated solutions to break down fat cell walls and dissolve fat in targeted areas . This approach, also known as injection lipolysis, leaves surrounding tissues unharmed and requires no downtime .
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting, or cryolipolysis, is a non-invasive fat reduction method that uses controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate fat cells . It’s suitable for larger body areas such as the hips, stomach, arms, back, buttocks, and thighs . While effective, CoolSculpting may require multiple sessions for optimal results, with final outcomes visible after about 12 weeks . Side effects can include bruising, numbness, and swelling, which typically subside within a few days .
Radiofrequency treatments
Radiofrequency (RF) treatments like Lipofirm Pro/Med use electrical currents to generate heat in the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving skin firmness. When combined with mesotherapy, RF treatments can enhance skin rejuvenation effects. The synergistic action of RF and mesotherapy improves epidermal homeostasis, resulting in increased firmness, even skin tone, and reduced dryness. This combination also supports optimal skin renewal and improves epidermal barrier function.
Mesotherapy stands out for its targeted approach and minimal downtime. It allows for precise treatment of specific areas, making it an attractive option for those seeking localised fat reduction and skin rejuvenation. While each method has its merits, the choice between mesotherapy and other fat reduction techniques depends on factors such as the amount of fat to be removed, desired recovery time, and specific body areas to be treated.
Conclusion
Mesotherapy and fat dissolving injections have a significant impact on the field of non-invasive body contouring and skin rejuvenation. These treatments offer a targeted approach to address stubborn fat pockets and various skin concerns, providing patients with effective results and minimal downtime. The versatility of mesotherapy, combined with its ability to be customised for individual needs, makes it an attractive option for those seeking aesthetic improvements without surgery.
As the demand for non-invasive cosmetic procedures continues to grow, mesotherapy stands out as a promising solution. To experience the benefits of fat reduction mesotherapy, consider booking a treatment with Skin Logic Aesthetics & Laser Clinic in London. With ongoing advancements in aesthetic medicine, mesotherapy is likely to play an increasingly important role in helping individuals achieve their desired body contouring and skin rejuvenation goals.
FAQs
What advantages do mesotherapy fat injections offer?
Mesotherapy is primarily utilised to combat cellulite. The solution injected into the middle layer of the skin boosts blood circulation beneath the skin, regulates lymph flow, breaks down fat, softens rigid connective tissues, and aids in the removal of cellulite.
Is it safe to use mesotherapy for fat reduction?
There is currently a lack of comprehensive scientific research confirming the safety and effectiveness of mesotherapy for fat loss. Mesotherapy is also employed for various other health concerns, including hair loss and pain management.
Are fat dissolving injections effective?
Fat Dissolving Injections have been shown to effectively reduce fat cells in the treated area. The outcomes of these treatments can be considered theoretically permanent, provided the patient maintains a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet.
