LipoDissolve is a treatment utilizing a combination of naturally-occurring compounds administered through a series of micro-injections for the purpose of subcutaneous fat reduction. LipoDissolve injections reduce the size of localized fat deposits and cause skin retraction in body regions where treated. It is an excellent non-surgical alternative for those patients seeking minimally invasive techniques to improve body contour. It is not a treatment for weight reduction, but rather, a procedure for improving shape and reducing targeted fat.

LipoDissolve consists of phosphatidycholine and deoxycholate (fosfa-tid-ul-koleen and de-oxy-kolate). Phosphatidycholine (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 injection 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 the PPC soluble in water. It acts as a detergent and also aids in the breakdown of fat consumed in our diet. Benzyl alcohol is present in the solution as a preservative and antimicrobial. 

First, the injection solution disrupts the fat cell membrane. This causes the cell 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 the redness and soreness but also allows for tissue retraction. Lastly, new collagen is deposited in the area, causing skin retraction with denser, firming skin character. The fat and cellular debris that is removed is collected as waste and excreted through the body’s normal metabolic pathways (urine and feces).

LipoDissolve is very safe when injected in appropriate candidates by trained practitioners using a standardized solution. It is supported by clinical studies and research in South America, Europe and in the U.S. PCC was first isolated in 1959 in Russia and used for the intravenous treatment of fat embolism. Since then, many other uses have been identified with IV or oral use including improvement in cardiac disease, elevated triglycerides and cholesterol, liver conditions, bipolar depression, Alzheimer’s syndrome, hypothyroidism, and insulin resistance. In 1988, the first injections for cosmetic uses were repeated with success. As of 2005, in the U.S. and other countries, more than 50,000 patients have been treated with successful cosmetic improvement with no long-term side effects or complications.

Several injections are delivered in the treated area using a small gauge needle. Most people experience only mild discomfort that is very tolerable. A common side effect is a burning or stinging sensation that frequently lasts for up to an hour after the injection. Taking Tylenol before treatment can help minimize this. Some patients will notice bruising or discoloration that fades with time. All patients experience mild to significant localized swelling and redness in the treated area. This is normal and expected. The majority of the swelling subside after 7 to 14 days. Occasionally, an itching sensation is described as the inflammation resolves and taking Benedryl can help alleviate this. Patients will notice the formation of slightly tender lumps or nodules under the skin, which is expected as the fat is dissolved. This reaction is temporary.

Each patient will receive a complimentary consultation and medical evaluation by our certified practitioner. During this meeting, a medical history questionnaire will be reviewed with you listing any concerns to be addressed. There are some medical conditions that will prevent a patient from being treated and these will be discussed with you at the time of the evaluation. The ideal candidate is healthy and is within range of their medically ideal body weight with respect to their height. This procedure works best for those with isolated problem areas that are resistant to diet and exercise and not for those seeking to lose weight.

LipoDissove is ideal for treating the lower eye pads, chin, jowls, cheeks, abdomen, upper/lower back, upper arms, hips, thighs, knees, buttocks, and love handles. It is also utilized for treating the following conditions:

Gynecomastia, lipomas, surgical deformities, and uneven contour from liposuction. 

The frequency of your treatment will depend on the body area and how much fat needs to be dissolved. Typically, patients will return every four to six weeks for three to six treatments.

 

One of the advantages of LipoDissolve versus surgical alternatives is that it is minimally invasive and patients can typically return to normal activity immediately. While some tenderness and discomfort is to be expected, overall, the treatments are very well tolerated. Perhaps that is why some have dubbed this procedure “lunchtime lipo”. The minimal disruption in their daily schedule is why most find this procedure very appealing.