Fat Dissolving Injections: Lipodissolve, Lipotherapy, Mesosculpting.

PROMISES

New patented treatments that involve the injection of chemicals into body fat. These treatments claim that they can permanently remove unwanted fat. Results reported are favorably compared to those from major surgery.
 

PITFALLS

Lipodissolve and other fat dissolving techniques are secret, patented, widely marketed "techniques" that are based on mesotherapy, an older unproven injection treatment. (Our thoughts on this technique is here: Promises and Pitfalls: Mesotherapy.)

The Lipodissolve and similar internet sites are heavy on marketing and light on information.  Claims include the term "microinjections", the need for a series of treatments, "proven" and exclusive body-shaping technologies.  

Proof of effectiveness is a series of enthusiastic "testimonials", diagrams and before and after photos showing minor changes in appearance. Technique and chemicals used are not specifically stated or discussed. Reference is made to treatments supervised by "board certified plastic surgeons", however, while detailed driving instructions are given to each location there is no listing of practitioners' names or credentials.

Very limited studies are published in the English language about these treatments. To our knowledge there is no drug specifically approved by the FDA for this use. Further, in order for any medical technique or technology to be accepted for general use, proof of safety and effectiveness is a minimum requirement.