Mesotherapy is a fat reduction procedure that was pioneered by the French in the 1950’s and introduced to America in the early 1990’s.
What is Mesotherapy?
Originally called Mesotherapie in France, mesotherapy can be used to promote weight loss, eliminate cellulite and eliminate localized fat deposits.
Mesotherapy involves the injection of lipodissolving agents into the fat layers of the skin. These agents will increase lipolysis (fat cell rupture) and adipocyte death (fat cell death). As the fat cells rupture and die, they are absorbed by the body and the fat layer shrinks.
Mesotherapy is somewhat controversial in the United States but many patients report good results after receiving mesotherapy treatments and it is recognized as a medical specialty in France.
Mesotherapy vs. Liposuction: Key Differences
While both mesotherapy and liposuction aim to remove unwanted fat, the two procedures differ significantly in approach, recovery time, and risk level.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves suctioning out fat through incisions, requiring downtime and posing surgical risks.
Mesotherapy, on the other hand, is a non-invasive alternative that uses microinjections to break down fat cells without surgery or anesthesia.
For patients seeking a safer, less expensive solution with minimal recovery, mesotherapy offers a compelling alternative for body sculpting without the commitment of surgery.
Promotion of Weight Loss with Mesotherapy
Meso-lipotherapy can be used to promote overall weight loss. It is considered by many to be a safe, less invasive alternative to cosmetic surgery procedures such as liposuction.
Mesotherapy weight loss involves the use of very short needles to penetrate the skin tissue.
It will help to promote fat burning and loss, along with possible tightening of the skin surface resulting in a younger, more youthful appearance.
Some patients may delay the need for liposuction and even body lift plastic surgery and mesotherapy carries a much lower risk as it is not actual surgery.
Elimination of Cellulite with Mesotherapy
Cellulite is the bumpy fat that often appears on the buttocks and legs of up to 90% of all women but can occur in men and in other parts of the body.
The bumpy appearance of cellulite is caused by fat tissue that protrudes through the mesh of connective tissue that supports the skin.
It most often appears in the 20’s and worsens in appearance as we age or gain weight. This is because as a person ages, the connective tissue mesh begins to weaken allowing extra fat to stick through.
Mesotherapy treatments can help to eliminate the appearance of cellulite even in patients who have moderate to severe cellulite that is very apparent.
Elimination of Localized Fat Deposits through Mesotherapy
Some people have fat deposits that are concentrated in specific areas of the body. Many times, these stubborn fat pockets are resistant to weight loss and will remain in areas such as the outer thighs or “saddle bags”, the inner thighs and lower abdomen.
Even when weight loss is complete, many women have fat that just won’t go away as they have inherited the tendency to keep it. Mesotherapy treatment may help to dissolve stubborn fat deposits in any area of the body.
Though the traditional American medical system may not fully support the use of mesotherapy cosmetic treatment, it has gained fairly widespread acceptance across Europe as a useful tool in the promotion of weight loss, elimination of cellulite and reduction of localized fat deposits.
It involves much less pain, a minimal healing time and carries a much lower risk to the patient. When choosing a mesotherapy physician, one should be sure to select a cosmetic surgeon who is fully trained in the application of mesotherapy to ensure the best results.
How Many Mesotherapy Sessions Are Needed?
The number of mesotherapy treatments required can vary based on the area being treated and the patient’s individual response to the injections.
Most patients undergo a series of 3 to 10 sessions, spaced about one to two weeks apart, to achieve optimal fat reduction and cellulite smoothing. Results typically begin to appear after the second or third treatment, with continued improvement over the following weeks.
Maintenance sessions may be recommended to sustain long-term results, particularly in areas prone to fat accumulation or cellulite development.
Is Mesotherapy Right for You?
Mesotherapy is best suited for individuals who are relatively close to their ideal body weight but struggle with localized fat deposits or persistent cellulite.
It is not intended as a primary method for significant weight loss but can be highly effective as a body contouring treatment.
Ideal candidates include those with small pockets of fat in the abdomen, thighs, arms, or chin that have not responded to diet and exercise.
During your consultation, a qualified cosmetic professional will assess your body composition and skin elasticity to determine if mesotherapy is a suitable option for your aesthetic goals.