Lipomassage™
Other Associated Terms: Endermologie®, Endermology, Cellulite Treatment.
Overview
Endermologie®, is a patented cellulite treatment that was originated in France in the 1980’s. It was first practiced in the United States in 1996 and has subsequently been approved by the FDA for cellulite treatment. The procedure is relatively non-invasive and uses an Endermologie® machine to provide vacuuming and rolling actions to break up cellulite deposits.
The premise of the procedure is that as the fat layer beneath the skin decreases, lymphatic drainage and blood flow will increase. This will eliminate excess fat cells and fluids. The procedures can last 30 minutes to an hour and usually several sessions will be required in a week, for a period of several weeks, for best results. The procedure is quite popular since it’s minimally invasive and there is little pain involved.
Benefits
Cellulite is an unsightly condition that can affect one’s self-confidence and self-esteem levels. Endermologie® (Lipomassage™) offers a controlled, non-surgical technique to address this issue. There is no anesthesia required, thus eliminating complications associated with its use. It can also be used in conjunction with a previous liposuction, in order to speed up healing and further enhance the liposuction results. Overall, it is a relaxing procedure that stimulates blood flow and reduces the appearance of unsightly cellulite.
Patient Characteristics
Cellulite is a condition that is common amongst many women and can be found on the buttocks, thighs and abdomen. It has the appearance of uneven, lumpy skin and is due to toxins and fat that is trapped above connective tissue bands in the skin. The trapped toxins and fat can compress and harden, which interferes with blood circulation, and forms cellulite as a result.
Usually found in women, cellulite very rarely develops in males. Not linked to obesity, it can occur in women of any body size since its actual cause is a result of interactions between body fat, hormone levels, aging, smoking, diet and genetics.
Ideal candidates will be those who are in good health and who understand the procedure and its limitations. Cellulite treatments are designed to improve the appearance as opposed to achieving perfection. Those women who wish to enhance their appearance by smoothing the texture of their skin in a virtually painless and quick manner are good candidates for Lipomassage™. Boosting self-image and self-esteem associated with appearance are all good reasons for Lipomassage™.
Procedure
The procedure will be different, depending on the type of machine used. However, in general, the patient will first put on a special “body suit” that will keep the rollers of the machine from pinching and assist them in moving smoothly over the body surface.
Using dual massage rollers and suction, the tissues are manipulated which breaks down cellulite deposits. Problem areas will be concentrated on, however, other areas will be addressed in order to promote circulation with fluid and toxin removal. The treatment sessions will usually be recommended for two times a week, on a weekly schedule, and will take approximately 35 minutes each.
Recovery
Lipomassage™ is relatively pain free and no downtime is anticipated. There may be some soreness or bruising (as one would expect in a vigorous massage) but this should quickly abate.
Risks Associated with Lipomassage™
Although Lipomassage™ has been effective for a large number of patients, there is always the possibility that it may not work, in some instances. It may also take multiple sessions for noticeable results – which can add to the expense. Because of this, you may find that you have spent significant funds for a few procedures before discovering that the treatments will not be effective.
Procedure Costs
The thing to consider when estimating costs for Lipomassage™ is that more than one treatment will usually be needed in order to produce or maintain results. It should also be noted that results can vary and cannot be guaranteed. With this in mind, the reported average cost for one treatment is around $165, which covers the physician’s fee.
When obtaining total cost estimates, make sure all other miscellaneous items are included - such as facility fees and the possibility of multiple sessions. The area (city/state) where the procedure is performed, will also affect costs along with the experience level of the doctor. Since medical insurance usually will not cover procedure costs, you may wish to inquire about financing from your doctor.
Things to Discuss with Your Doctor During Your Consultation
When researching whether or not Lipomassage™ is right for you, you should have a consultation with your doctor. This is necessary in order to understand the procedure and to develop realistic expectations regarding procedure results. Part of this process is the viewing of multiple before and after photos. You should determine the experience of your doctor, as well (how many of these procedures has he or she performed in the last year?).
Other questions may include; what are the risks involved with Lipomassage™ and what percentage of the patients have experienced complications? How is the procedure performed and how long does it take? What results can you expect and how long do the results last? What is involved in any recovery associated with the procedure? How much is the total cost for treatments (including all miscellaneous expenses)?
Another consideration is the licensing of the practitioner. Since LPG is the patent and trademark owner of Endermologie™, you will want to verify that the practitioner is using a genuine LPG system. Before agreeing to treatment, you should be able to observe the LPG logo on the treatment equipment.
Also, ask to see the practitioner’s LPG certification (“Level 1” or “Level 2”). This will assure that the practitioner has received the proper training. You can also check with LPG (now known as “Techo Derm”), for the authenticity of the practitioner, at (888) 892-4588.
Alternatives to Lipomassage™
There are other methods of dealing with cellulite formation. These can involve various topical creams and other procedures. For example, Mesotherapy, which involves the injection of various medications beneath the skin surface. This procedure is not approved by the FDA and most doctors warn against its use, since the injected mixtures can vary in their ingredients, therefore results can be unpredictable.