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.