The Process
| Consultation: | 45minutes for a new patient, 15 mins for existing |
| Procedure: | 15 mins |
| Recovery: | 2-5 days of swelling, heat, tenderness and redness in the treated areas |
| Duration of results: | permanent fat reduction provided the patient maintains their body weight and lifestyle |
| Cost: | $300 per body area, $125 for beneath the chin |
What is Lipodissolve?
Lipodissolve is a non-surgical alternative to liposuction to remove localised fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. It is not used for weight loss but rather for body sculpting. The main ingredient in Lipodissolve is phosphatidylcholine (PPC) PPC is a natural product found in our body and its main role is to emulsify and breakdown fat and cholesterol which is then removed by the liver, kidneys and bowels. The PPC that is used is derived from soybeans. It has been used for reducing fat deposits for about 10 year. In the medical setting, it is used to dissolve cholesterol plaques in heart disease and to dissolve fat embolism.
What areas are treated?
Fat deposits above the knees and the face and neck can be treated. The most common areas that are treated are; abdominal bulges, love handles, back fat, saddle bags, thighs (inner and outer), buttocks, arms, double chins, cheeks and jowls. Injected more superficially, Lipodissolve can also help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
What does the treatment involve?
Before your treatment, you will be assessed, measured and photographed. An anaesthetic cream is applied to the areas to be treated. The areas to be treated is cleansed with a disinfectant and PPC is then injected into the problem areas. Generally, 3-4 treatments 2-4 weeks apart are needed to see results. After treatment, there is swelling, tenderness, redness, bruising and temporary lumps to the treated areas. You should drink plenty of fluids and massage the treated areas after your treatment. Other side effects are mild nausea, diarrhoea, fever, infection (rare) and allergic reaction to PPC (rare). There is no reported anaphylactic reaction to PPC
What happens to the treated areas after Lipodissolve?
The skin over the treated areas tightens after the fat has been removed (variable – providing there is no excess loose skin) and the appearance of cellulite improves. The fat cells are permanently removed and the results can be maintained for 2 years after treatment if client maintains their ideal body weight. In a small percentage (5%) of patients, there is very little result from Lipodissolve treatment
Am I a candidate for Lipodissolve?
Patients who have severe liver or kidney problems, auto-immune diseases, are pregnant or breast-feeding, have high blood pressure and who are allergic to any components in the treatment are not suitable for Lipodissolve treatments. Dr Marr may ask for some baseline blood tests to be performed if needed. Lipodissolve is not for weight reduction but rather for body sculpting in patients with normal weight range and who undertakes regular exercise. Patients who have an unrealistic expectation are not candidate for this procedure
Pre-procedure planning – what you should do
Please wear loose and dark clothing. You should make sure you have something to eat before the procedure. Please do not take aspirin, anti-inflammatory tablets, garlic, ginger, gingko, vitamin E, fish oil for 5-7 days before procedure as these can increase severity of bruising.
Post procedure care – what you should do
There is a possibility of bruising – this can last from 7-14 days. Tenderness, redness and temporary lumps can occur. There is a small incidence of infection. After the procedure, you should not use any cosmetic products or creams to the treated areas for 3-4 days. After this time, regular massage is recommended. If there is any signs of infection, you should contact Dr Marr immediately. There is also a chance of dysesthesia (numb sensation) to the treated areas which can last for a few weeks. Tiny lumps can form in the treated areas and if these persist after 6 weeks, an injection of steroid into the lumps can be administered to treat this. There is also a rare complication of skin necrosis – if you notice any pale or black discolouration of the treated areas, you should contact Dr Marr immediately
How much does it cost per area?
Only one area can be treated each session initially. Example of one area include the abdominal bulges around the umbilicus. Treatment starts from $300 per area.
