Mesotherapy is a treatment that uses injections of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts to dissolve excess fat deposits, remove fibrotic, hardened connective tissue, and improve lymphatic drainage and blood flow to the area. This procedure is intended for body sculpting of the stubborn body parts that are non-responsive to diet and exercise. As an alternative to liposuction, it allows you to melt away excess fat and tighten your skin without having to go through a surgical procedure.
The injection consists of a mixture of phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and deoxycholate (DC), which are substances that occur naturally in the human body. Phosphatidylcholine deoxycholate (PCDC) micro-injections are delivered into the targeted treatment areas. The fat cells absorb the PCDC and become slightly inflamed and then harden. The hardened fat cells break down within a few weeks and are eliminated via the body’s natural processes.
What is PCDC?
Phosphatidylcholine (PPC) is a naturally occurring substance within the body that comprises up to 60% of cell membranes, facilitates cell membrane transport, and is a component in bile that is responsible for emulsifying the fat we consume in our diet for absorption. The PPC used in most injectable fat reducing formulas is derived from the soybean lecithin. Deoxycholate, present in the body as sodium deoxycholate, is a bile salt that functions to make PPC soluble in water. It acts as a detergent and also aids in the breakdown of fat consumed in our diet.
How does it work?
First, the injected solution disrupts the fat cell membrane. This causes the cells to burst, releasing their enzymes and fatty content. Second, an inflammatory response ensues, allowing the debris to be “cleaned up” by the macrophages that have migrated to the area. This inflammation is responsible for redness and soreness, but it also allows for tissue retraction. Lastly, new collagen is deposited in the area, causing skin retraction with denser, firmer skin character. The fat and cellular debris that are removed are collected as waste and excreted through the body’s normal metabolic pathways, through the urinary and bowel systems.
Mesotherapy can be used for a variety of conditions, such as localized fat reduction, skin retraction, stretch marks, and cellulite. It also improves skin tone and elasticity, and it increases collagen production.
What body parts can be treated?
Areas that can be treated with mesotherapy include:
- Inner and outer thighs
- Buttocks
- Love handles
- Back of the arms
- Upper and lower abdomen
- Chin and jowls
- Knees
- Upper and lower back
Are treatments painful?
There may be some localized discomfort upon injection, and a minor burning sensation immediately following the treatment. Swelling will occur in the treated area, and soreness and inflammation may be experienced for several days after treatment. Localized bruising, nausea, headache, and diarrhea have also been reported. Your fat area becoming firm is a sign the treatment is working. As your body breaks down the treated fat cells, they are excreted through the body’s normal metabolic process.
When will I see results?
Typically, most people return for a second treatment in 2-4 weeks, and it usually takes 4-6 treatments to achieve the results they desire. On average, patients begin to see noticeable improvement after 2-4 sessions. For the first several weeks while the body’s inflammatory response is prominent, you may feel “bloated” in the treated area. This is expected and only temporary. Once the body begins metabolizing the fat, contour improvement occurs.
