Raj Kumar asked:


Cellulite removal is one of the fastest growing industries in the medical world today. With 90% of women as prospective clients, it is not surprising that many are trying to ride the wave, and trying to make some profit from the despised condition called cellulite. Lipotherapy or lipodissolve is one of the products trying to ride this wave. It has been marketed as an effective way of removing cellulite, but for a consumer, does it work and is it safe?

We work hard for our money, and we seek treatments to improve ourselves, especially those that involve looking good. We expect to see immediate results, and we also want to be assured that the procedure or treatment that is going to be done is safe, and has minimal risk, and is worth our every dollar.

Lipotherapy is one of the treatments being made available to remove cellulite. It allegedly works by injecting either of two substances, namely phosphatidylcholine (PPC) or Sodium Deoxycholate, for multiple sessions to dissolve the fat causing the cellulite.

FDA Approval

The problem is that Lipotherapy is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Association (FDA) of the United States.  First and foremost, when looking for a treatment, it should be approved by the FDA.    Secondly, even experts stress that lipotherapy should ideally be only used for small areas of skin, and is necessary only if there is excessive fat or skin or both. 

Lack of Medical Trials

There has been a lack of information, and scientific trials to prove that lipotherapy is in fact safe.  The processes involved in lipotherapy have yet to be thoroughly studied by scientists and medical practitioners.  However, the current trend points to its drawbacks and the complications that come with it.  So much so, that the procedure has been banned in Brazil.

Lipotherapy vs Mesotherapy

But why is lipotherapy being questioned as unsafe and untested, when mesotherapy which involves a similar process has been approved by the FDA for years. How can they be differentiated from each other?

Lipotherapy can be differentiated from mesotherapy in that, mesotherapy has multiple applications in the medical world. This is because mesotherapy can be used not only for cellulite treatments, but also for muscoskeletal problems, neurological problems, and other cosmetic problems, not necessarily connected with cellulite removal. Lipotherapy on the other hand is confined to the mass killing of fat cells, and nothing else. What it does is kill the fat cells under the skin without any mode of selection as to which cells are good or bad. There is no differentiation of targeted cells at all. This is different from trying to decrease the fat cells size which has proven to be safer.

Not Recommended

In the end lipotherapy is not recommended for cellulite removal. With the host of choices out there, there is no need to insist on lipotherapy if in the end it will endanger your health, especially as it is not FDA approved. Experts suggest that one should always find a physician who is certified, and not just any other physician who offer their services. After all, it is your safety and well being that is important, more than anything else.

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Edith

Khalid Mahmud, M.D.,FACP asked:


The American Society of Aesthetic Lipodissolve [ASAL] objects to the inclusion of “Lipodissolve” in the recent warning against injection therapy (MESOTHERAPY) for localized fat reduction issued by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery [ASAPS]. The procedure, Lipodissolve was introduced by the founders of ASAL in 2001 as distinct from “Mesotherapy”. The ASAL took care to include ingredients which were safe and whose mechanism of action was understood. The ASAL diligently limited training only to physicians and their nurses to perform the procedure. The ASAL and its original cohort, “Network Lypolysis”, thus trained more than 300 physician in Europe, and so far, more than 200 physicians in the United States.

ASAPS is incorrect in stating that there are no data relative to the effectiveness and safety of the procedure. As it relates to Lipodissolve, more than 50,000 treatment sessions have been reported in European and American peer reviewed journals demonstrating: a] objective evidence of improvement, based on actual measurements and pictures, in approximately 90% of the patients, and b] a paucity of serious side effects.1-4,6,7 Serious side effects reported with liposuction such as death, fluid overload, epinephrine and lidocaine toxicity, thrombosis, fat embolism and complications of general anesthesia have not been reported with Lipodissolve therapy.5

The main ingredient in the Lipodissolve formula is phosphatidylcholine [PC], a lipid. It is dissolved in a bile salt [deoxycholate], which is how it exists in bile where it helps to breakdown the ingested fat cells and digest fat on a daily basis. When injected in to the unwanted superficial body fat, it similarly breaks down fat cells and “digests fat”, as it does naturally in proximal duodenum. In the subcutaneous area the dead fat cells are then gradually removed by the body’s physiologic repair mechanisms, the same way as after any trauma or even after liposuction which leaves dead fat cells in the area to be removed by similar physiologic processes. PC along with other phospholipids are significant dietary source of essential fatty acids. Mammalian cell membranes are primarily composed of PC and other phospholipids mixed with cholesterol esters and salts to maintain fluidity. In other words it is not some foreign or toxic substance.

ASAPS’s statement that this “procedure is not FDA approved” is misleading. FDA approves drugs and devices, not procedures. ASAL maintains that there is no FDA approval requirement relative to phosphatidylcholine for two reasons. One, it is a “supplement” and as such has been used for years for liver health, cholesterol and other possible benefits. Supplements do not require FDA approval and can be administered by injection,(as are vitamins and minerals as in Meyer’s cocktail, intravenous nutrition or hyper-alimentation consisting of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, lipids, and others. Second, in Lipodissolve, the ingredients are mixed by a compounding pharmacist upon a physician’s order for specific patients, which does not require FDA approval [FDA Modernization Act Section 503a Compounding Pharmacy].

Lipodissolve is not a surgical procedure. Accordingly, ASAL has compiled an advisory board that includes highly credentialed physicians with diverse but relevant backgrounds in the fields of dermatology, aesthetic surgery and internal medicine. These individuals are experienced clinicians, speakers, writers, researchers and teachers, and provide advice regarding the procedure and its evolution. They conduct training workshops for other physicians in the U.S. So far the North American advisers have performed more than 2,000 Lipodissolve procedures with satisfactory results in more than 90% of the patients – without any serious side effects. The ASAL has an on going monitoring process to record these events.

References:

1. Hasengschwandtner,F. Phosphatidylcholine treatment to induce lypolysis. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2005; 4:308-313

2. Duncan, ID, Hasengschwandtner,F. Lipodissolve for Subcutaneous Fat Reduction and Skin Retraction. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2005-September/October; 25(5):530-43

3. Heinrich, K-G. Efficacy of Injections of Phosphatidylcholine into Fat Deposits, A non-surgical alternative to liposuction in body contouring. Presented as a scientific publication at the convention “Operative Dermatology” at Frankfurt, October 28-31, 2004

4. Palmer, M, Curran, J, Bowler, P. Clinical experience and safety using phosphatidylcholine injections for the localized reduction of subcutaneous fat: a multicentre, retrospective UK study. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2006; 5:218-25

5. Platt, MS, et.al. Deaths associated with liposuction: case reports and review of the

literature. Journal Forensic Science. 2002, Jan; 47(1):205-7

6. Duncan,DI,Chubaty,R,Clinical Safety Data and Standards of Practice for Injection Lipolysis: A Retrospective Aesthetic Surgery J, 2006;26:000.

7. Hasengschwandtner,F, Furtmueller,F, Spanbaner,M,Silye,R.Detailed Documentation of Lipolysis Treatment: Blood Values,Histology, and Ultrasound Findings.Aesthetic Surgery J 2007, 27:204-211



Courtney

Raj Kumar asked:


Cellulite treatment is very much popular as more and more people are getting rid of this skin condition. Cellulite is a disorder with skin. It is commonly situated in the highs, buttocks, hips. It has a cottage cheese like appearance and has multiple dimples on skin. However, it isn’t related to being overweight but it is genetic. Cellulite treatments need not necessarily be surgical one. The results of the cellulite treatment would produce great improvements in the skin tone as well as appearance. There are various treatments available in the market today which would help getting rid of the ugly looking cellulite.

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is an effective cellulite treatment. The cellulite affected area develops and increased lymphatic flow and blood flow, decreased amount of fibrosis of connective tissues also reduction of the fat deposits. The result would be smoother skin and reduction of cellulite too. His treatment uses a mixture of substances including herbs, vitamins and some other homeopathic medications. The treatment has been designed for everyone. It makes use of thin needles that are injected in the formulations. While treating the cellulite affected areas, one of the formulations is also used for dissolving fats. This treatment is completely painless and you can perform all normal activities soon after the treatment.

Lipodissolve

Lipodissolve is another popular Arkansas cellulite treatment. This treatment too is a non surgical treatment. It involves injection of the phosphatidylcholine to the smaller fat deposits. Phosphatidylcholine is natural enzyme. The compound is injected in the fats via multiple microinjections. This treatment is done in order to dissolve the fats that are present in the body through the normal wastes. Undergoing this treatment is completely painless and is effective too. It would take about 30 to 60 minutes for the treatment. After the treatment, you can return back to the daily normal activities once again easily.

SmartLipo

SmartLipo is also popularly known as laser liposuction for treating cellulite condition. It is one of the latest popular treatments for getting rid of the ugly looking cellulite. The treatment involves usage of the laser. It would dissolve the fats and then tighten the surrounding skin area. One can undergo this treatment in the office itself as no general anesthetic is required. A tiny tube having laser is inserted in the skin. The energy of the laser would rapture and drive away the fat cells. It is removed with the waste system. The skin would tighten and would shrink a bit gradually in a couple of weeks.

Consulting physician

If cellulite appears on your skin then you might want to consult your physician prior to undergoing any treatment. You obviously wouldn’t want cellulite on your skin. Cellulite is a mostly found in women. However, even men can get caught with cellulite. Cellulite is not attractive to look t and could appear on various body parts. However, it favors body parts like highs, hips, and buttocks. Seek a doctor and he would help choosing the right Arkansas cellulite treatment to get rid of the ugly cellulite.

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Top Cellulite Reduction Cream.



Heather

Alison Stevens asked:


Liposuction is considered a relatively safe procedure; however, there are many reasons why a person may seek a liposuction alternative rather than undergoing cosmetic surgery. If you’re not comfortable with the idea of surgery, if you are on medication or have a medical condition that would prevent you from having cosmetic surgery, or if you think the cost of liposuction could be too great, then there are liposuction alternatives for you to consider.

Medical and cosmetic research and technology are constantly providing new methods of non-invasive body sculpting without the need for surgery. Many of these alternatives produce favorable results without the potential side-effects of liposuction.

Firming Creams

There are a number of creams on the market claiming to improve the firmness and texture of the skin. Many are aimed at reducing cellulite and stretch marks. Creams containing aminophylline are sometimes claimed by their users to reduce fat deposits but there is no scientific evidence to back this, and the claim is not made by the marketers of the products.

Lipodissolve

This is one of the latest techniques in non-surgical liposuction. Developed in Europe for cosmetic purposes, it is now being used in some parts of Europe as a liposuction alternative. Lipodissolve involves injecting a combination of medications and enzymes directly into the fat, which causes the fat to be dissolved and expelled through the body’s urine. The European developers of the technique have concluded that lipodissolve is a safe method for eliminating localized fat deposits.

Mesotherapy

This method, also known as liposculpting, can provide excellent results for those seeking a non-invasive, non-surgical liposuction alternative. Mesotherapy involves small injections of a combination of natural plant extracts, medicines and amino acids into the problem areas to dissolve the fat. The fat is then eliminated from the body with other wastes. The procedure is relatively painless and does not require an anesthetic. There is no recovery time associated with mesotherapy.

Diet and exercise

Improving the diet and getting more excercise are still the best and safest ways to lose weight and change the body’s appearance. Remember that liposuction is not a weight loss method – it is a procedure to shape the body. As an alternative to any of the above procedures and treatment, learn to accept your body shape the way it is and learn to dress in a manner that downplays your body size.

Any of the above methods may be suitable liposuction alternatives; however, it is always advisable to seek professional advice before starting any treatment.



Neil

Nicolos Rayez asked:


You’ve heard of liposuction. Who hasn’t? The term has been around since the 1970’s and was popularized by many of the great celebrities of the 80’s. But now, as the first decade of the 2000’s has begun to see it’s close, there have risen many great liposuction alternatives that offer much less invasive surgeries at a more affordable cost.

Are these recommended procedures? By popular opinion (even by most health care professionals, nothing can quite measure up to old fashion sweat, healthy nutrition, and good self-image, but as far as “body contouring” goes, these are less painful, quicker in recovery time, and a lot less of an invasive ways to go if you’re looking for liposuction alternatives.

Liposuction Alternative 1: Lipodissolve

If you’re a tad squeamish about being under the knife for liposuction, you might want to take a look into Lipodissolve. There is a more in-depth discussions about this particular liposuction alternative found on other pages around Liposuction-Alternatives.info.

A quick run-down, however, is that Lipodissolve is a drug cocktail that is injected into a specific “problem area.” The fat in this area would then begin to melt away fat cells that are expelled through the body. This is a very thorough liposuction alternative, but should be carefully considered before proceeded upon.

Liposuction Alternative 2: Mesotherapy

Much like the Lipodissolve treatments, mesotherapy is an injected mixture of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are meant to break down fat and tighten skin. This alternative to liposuction is a great way to eliminate the areas that have a fair amount of cellulite.

Much like Lipodissolve, mesotherapy destroys the fat cells in the layer of skin with the most fat cells. These fat cells will typically explode and die, reducing the unsightly cellulite in those trouble spots. As far as non-invasive liposuction alternatives, mesotherapy is a very popular choice among many seeking a better body.

Liposuction Alternative 3: SmartLipo

Early in the pioneer days; indeed, long before that, they use to use the fat from pigs, and other cattle to create soap, candles, and various cooking agents. Have you ever cut cold butter? What about with a warm knife? Ever notice how butter, when it’s hot, will actually melt off of a corn cob, or a plate?

SmartLipo is a type of liposuction that actually uses lasers to heat up fatty areas. When these heat up, the fat will actually melt away. There is minimal downtime (1 – 3 days) where you are asked to lower your strenuous activities exponentially. Although more invasive than the previous 2 choices, SmartLipo is a great liposuction alternative, because the fat cells never return.

Liposuction Alternative 4: Diet and Exercise

Most looking for liposuction options tend to shy away from these two because they are not instantanious like liposuction or any of the liposuction alternatives. Although diet and exercise take a little longer before the results show up, these two tend to be what professionals advise at first.

Even if you were to get liposuction or one of the alternatives, it’s a good chance that you’re going to end up having to eat right and stay active to keep the weight off. The body still gains weight, even when fat cells are gone from specific areas, so make sure this is a key thought when considering liposuction alternatives.

Liposuction Alternative 5: Acceptance

The last alternative, and the conclusion of this article, is accepting yourself for what you look like. Despite the image that is portrayed on the television screen, you must consider yourself as an individual who has genetic limits and boundaries. Although you should strive for health in body and in mind, never attempt to take the easy road just because your self-image is tainted by what others might think.

Liposuction is not a weight loss tool, and is never advised to be such. It is merely an option for those looking to hone their body in ways that diet and exercise don’t seem to allow. Always way the consequences, results, and benefits of your actions before you act. Ask your friends what they think. Really take into consideration if liposuction, or any of these liposuction alternatives are right for you.



Norma