Innovative approaches
Many people would like to benefit from the advantages Liposuction has to offer: long-term removal of stubborn fat cells, a more proportionate body contour, and a healthier self-image. However, with the risks involved with even the safest techniques, patients often shy away from surgical procedures involving anaesthesia and instead inquire about non-surgical alternatives. Here too there is an array of choices, and it is important for the patient to be well-informed before agreeing to any kind of procedure. Below are profiles of the two least invasive techniques on the market.
Mesotherapy:
A technique especially popular in Europe, Mesotherapy allows for the removal of pockets of fat and cellulite without the need for incisions. Several small needles are injected into the mid-layer of the skin with a cocktail of amino acids, vitamins, and other medications that work on the premise of burning fat. Mesotherapy essentially causes the blockage of alpha receptors (those that create fat) and stimulates the beta receptors (those that break down fat), encouraging overall weight loss in addition to localised treatment of cellulite. Recovery from Mesotherapy is so painless that patients can return back to their normal daily routine immediately after the procedure, which takes less than an hour. The downside of Mesotherapy is that it may take up for four sessions, spaced out over a four-week period, before the patient notices any physical changes.
Thermage™:
Although recognized as being more of a skin-tightening technique than a contouring method, Thermage™ is able to literally dissolve fat in areas with excess fatty pockets. Thermage™ is one of the few fat removal options that does not involve any kind of skin penetration. Instead, a laser is directed at the skin which emits pulses at radiofrequency which cause regeneration and tightening of collagen in the skin. An improvement in skin tone can be seen after the first session, which lasts between one and two hours. No anaesthesia is needed for this procedure, and the only risk associated with it is very mild skin burns from the laser. These can easily be treated with over-the-counter burn cream containing sulfadiazine.