Mesotherapy uses a questionable technique known as injection lipolysis. As its name implies, injection lipolysis breaks down fat by injecting chemical solutions directly into the subcutaneous tissue. The ingredients used for mesotherapy vary according to the practitioner, but usually contain a combination of drugs, plant extracts, vitamins and other substances.
Although mesotherapy has used for many years in Europe, no credible scientific evidence exists to support its effectiveness. It has not received approval by the Food and Drug Administration, and several medical organizations have issued warnings about its use. One major concern is the lack of control over the ingredients used in the formulations. They are not regulated.
Mesotherapy Treatment Claims
Mesotherapy practitioners claim the procedure can help eliminate and re-sculpt undesired areas of fat almost anywhere on the body.
The Mesotherapy Procedure
Made with a very tiny needle, mesotherapy injections are described as feeling like mild pinches. To make the procedure more comfortable, a topical anesthetic is sometimes applied to the skin 30 minutes before the injections are given. Minor bruising is common, but you can return to your normal daily routine immediately. Practitioners recommend 10 treatment sessions spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart for results.
If this method of fat reduction has been recommended to you by a physician, be sure to ask why another, more proven method wouldn’t be a better choice. Also, be sure you know exactly what is in the formulation that will be injected into your body.