Mesotherapy Injections Can Melt Fat Away

By Kevin Smith, MD

Published on August 09, 2007

There's a new method here in the United States that can help you get rid of fat and cellulite. It's called Mesotherapy and it involves injecting small amounts of medication and/or vitamins into the mesoderm, the middle layer of the skin. Mesotherapy has been used in the treatment of acne, arthritis, joint problems, and sports injuries as well as for cosmetic purposes, such as reducing cellulite and fat. The technique was pioneered in France by Dr. Michael Pistor, and has been performed there since 1952. But only in the past few years has it begun to attract physicians and clients in the United States. There are now approximately 100 doctors in the United States performing Mesotherapy. An increasing number of men and women from a variety of ethnic backgrounds are choosing this method in hopes of reshaping their bodies.

Mesotherapy blocks patients' ability to store fat and stimulates their ability to burn it up. The doctor can target specific areas of fat by injecting phosphatidylcholine (PPC), the chief component of soy lecithin, either by itself or in a blend of commonly used medications and vitamins and supplements. This procedure is great for body sculpting procedures that focus on the abdomen, "love handles," "saddle bags," cellulite, double chin and eyelids. It removes inches and some weight. Patients still have to eat right and exercise regularly to achieve the best results. It's not a weight loss treatment but a good replacement for liposuction, especially in generally healthy people with localized areas of fat.

Mesotherapy is safe, with no anesthesia required and no shock to the body. The procedure is affordable, varying in price from $500 to $600 per session. Injections can be repeated every two weeks until the desired result is achieved. Patients see results within two to eight weeks. The number of mesotherapy treatments needed depends on the size of the area and the severity of the condition.

The side effects of mesotherapy injections are usually mild and temporary – little bruising, soreness, swelling and skin irritation. This procedure is not recommended for heart patients, diabetics, or people who are more than 100 pounds overweight.

Dr. Kevin Smith's education includes specialty training in both facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology/head and neck surgery. After completing his pre-med requirements at the University of Michigan, Dr. Smith earned his medical degree and residency at University of Texas-Houston Medical School, where he currently holds an assistant clinical faculty appointment in the Department of Otolaryngology. He performed a post-residency fellowship in facial plastic surgery at McCollough Plastic Surgery Clinic in Birmingham, Alabama.

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