Mesotherapy is a combination of homeopathic medicines and vitamins injected into the middle layer of the skin to break down the cellulite, improving circulation to the area. The fat is dissolved and flushed out of the body. Mesotherapy is also used to treat headaches, backaches and cosmetic problems such as acne, stretch marks, scars and wrinkles. It can even preserve the health of the skin over time. The medications used in mesotherapy are approved by the FDA.
What Is Cellulite?
Cellulite is superficial fat that is trapped underneath the skin. It is caused by clumps of fat cells pushed up against the connective bands of tissue in the skin resulting in the "cottage cheese" look. It is not usually affected by exercise. Cellulite usually affects the buttock, abs and upper thighs, but can show up anywhere. Cellulite is more common in women than in men.
What Are the Risks of Mesotherapy?
There are minimal risks with mesotherpay. These risks may include
- Burning lasting 15 to 20 minutes
- Minor swelling that may last for up to 5 days
- Minor soreness lasting several days
- Minor skin discoloration
- Small risk of infection
When using a trained professional, these risks are reduced dramatically.
How Long Do the Results Last?
The results are permanent as long as there is not a large weight gain after receiving the treatments. Follow up treatments may be needed every 6 to 8 months, depending on the person. Depending on the amount of cellulite, some may actually lose inches and possibly drop dress sizes.
How Many Sessions Are Needed and How Much Does It Cost?
Most people need 15 to 20 treatments. Each treatment cost around $500 to $800, depending on where the treatments are received. Liposuction can cost up to $10,000 or more. It is best to have treatments once a week or every other week. Since this is considered a cosmetic procedure, insurance companies will not pick up the cost of the treatments. The number of sessions can vary from person to person and will be determined by the patient and the doctor depending on the amount of cellulite and the area to be treated.
How Long Before Results Are Seen?
Results will vary from one patient to another, but gradually appear over a few weeks to months. Most people will see results within about 5 treatments. After about 10 treatments, the cellulite should be about 50% gone.
What Is the Recovery Time?
There is no downtime with the mesotherapy treatments. There may be some minor discomfort on the area treated, but this usually only lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. Treatments may be done on a lunch hour and the patient can return to work immediately after receiving it. Some patients may feel heaviness in the treated area, but this may vary from one patient to another.
Mesotherapy is a low cost alternative (with no recovery time) to liposuction and to creams that do not work. It is a safe and effective treatment when treated by a professional.
