What is Lipodissolve with UltraSculpt?
Lipodissolve with UltraSculpt 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.
What are the chemicals being injected?
The Lipodissolve formula consists of phosphatidycholine and deoxycholate (fosfa-tid-ul-koleen and de-oxy-kolate).
Phosphatidycholine (PC) 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 PC used in most
injectable fat reducing formulas is derived from the soybean lecithin.
Deoxycholate (DC), present in the body as sodium deoxycholate, is a bile
salt that functions to make the PC 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.
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 the redness
and soreness but 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 are removed through the lymphatic
system.
The UltraSculpt process is implemented in
two stages. The first stage works by directly targeting the
compacted layers of cells. The second stage involves the dispersion
of fat deposits using special vibratory and suction techniques. The
UltraSculpt device lifts, folds, presses, and stretches the skin according
to a site specific computerized sequence. Low wave ultrasound
administered through the UltraSculpt device increases the depth of
Lipodissolve penetration into the treated tissue. Ultrasound
enhances the destruction of unwanted fibers and improves the metabolism of
tissue.
Is this procedure safe?
Lipodissolve with UltraSculpt 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. PC 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 where
reported with success. As of 2005, in the U.S. and other countries, more
than 50,000 patients have been treated with successful cosmetic
improvement and no long-term side effects or complications.
Does it hurt and what are the
side-effects?
Several injections are delivered in the
treated area using a small gauge needle. Most people experience only mild
discomfort that is very tolerable. Common side-effects are a burning or
stinging sensation that frequently lasts for up to an hour after the
injections. 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 will subside after 2-3 days. Occasionally, an itching sensation
is described as the inflammation resolves, taking Benadryl 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.
How do I know if I am a candidate?
Each patient will receive a complimentary
consultation and medical evaluation by our certified practitioners.
During this meeting, a medical history questionnaire will be reviewed with
you allowing 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.
What are the areas that can be treated
and how often?
Lipodissolve with UltraSculpt is ideal for treating the
chin, 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 treatments will
depend on the body area and how much fat needs to be dissolved. Typically
patients will return every week for twelve weeks.
Is there any downtime and how soon will I
see results?
One of the advantages of Lipodissolve
with UltraSculpt 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, and 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. On the average,
patients begin to see noticeable improvement after 2-4 sessions. While
many experience results sooner, we cannot guarantee this. Often, we
inform patients that for the first several weeks while the body’s
inflammatory response is prominent, they will feel “bloated” in the
treated area. This is expected and only temporary. Once the body begins
metabolizing the fat, contour improvement occurs. |
