Personal Injury Law

Mesotherapy and Lipodissolve: Aren't Worth the Risk

By Chrissie Cole

Belly fat can be hard and stubborn to lose and often prompts people to seek help to shed those pesky middle pounds.

When shopping for a new slimmer look, many dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons suggest avoiding lipodissolve – a shot that allegedly dissolves stubborn fat deposits.

This shot is often part of "mesotherapy" -- a shallow injection of a cocktail of substances using a fine needle into fatty areas of the skin. These substances act like detergents that have the ability to dissolve fat.

The procedure is used to promote weight loss, eliminate cellulite, treat aging and/or sagging skin and rejuvenate the neck and hands.

Mesotherapy is a general term used for a variety of minimally invasive techniques in which medications are directly injected into the skin and the layer beneath the skin for reasons ranging from cosmetic conditions to neurological problems. It is a slower process than lipodissolve which requires stronger chemicals, numerous sessions and it is more expensive.

Lipodissolve, also known as Lioptherapy, refers to the treatment of fat deposits thorough injections. Lipodissolve contains a mixture of naturally occurring chemicals, requires smaller injections, fewer sessions and the response is quicker.

“At present, there is not a single scientific study to show the procedures are effective,” Dr. Malcolm Roth, director of plastic surgery at Maimondes Medical Center in N.Y. says.

"We don't know much about this product, because it has not been clinically studied. There might be some long-range problems, but again, we don't know. If this product is as effective and safe as its proponents say, then let's have some clinical research."

“Lipodissovle is one of the most ill-advised treatment plans available today,” said And Dr. Carolyn Jacob, a board certified dermatologist in Chicago

“This is non-FDA approved use of a material called lipostabil, which can dissolve fat and other structures,” she said. “However, it can cause hard lumps, ulcerations of the skin, pain, swelling and other adverse effects.”

Despite the dangers presented by the procedure, a growing number of clinics offer lipodissolve in the United States. The procedure is banned for cosmetic purposes in other countries including Brazil.

If you do decide to have lipodissolve, look for a board certified plastic surgeon that is approved by the American Board of Medical Specialties. And most importantly, keep in mind that while liposuction is approved by the FDA, lipodissolve is not. #

Full post as published by InjuryBoard on January 22, 2009 (boomark / email).