Lipodissolve is a Phosphatidylcholine (PC)-based injection used to remove excess fat. This usually involves the patient having several sessions of treatment injections over a period of time. This is a non-surgical procedure that can be done right in the doctor’s office with no need for anesthesia.
The fat removal is done primarily in the chin, thighs or abdomen. These are not to be confused with liposuction, where the fat is “sucked” out of the body in one session. Lipodissolve injections “burn” the fat tissue gradually over several sessions.
PC injections have not yet been approved by the FDA. The only verification of safety and efficiency of these procedures is what can be seen by the results of previous patients. Since the proper scientific studies have not yet been done, we have no way of knowing how the chemicals are cleared from the body. It is also unknown as to whether the drug affects any other cells in the body besides fat cells.
Lipodissolve is not for people looking to lose weight. While it may take off some inches in certain areas, it is not a reliable way to lose actual pounds. The ideal candidate for Lipodissolve is someone who is maintaining a healthy weight but has some minor fat deposits that they just can’t seem to get rid of through proper diet or exercise.
While it is not known whether Lipodissolve is completely safe, because of lack of testing, there certainly have been many happy customers. About four out of five patients are very happy with the final results of the treatment. The injections may cause bruising, redness, burning, or swelling temporarily. However, long-term side effects have not yet been recorded. After the injections are administered, results can take up to six weeks to appear.
Lipodissolve can be costly. The injections cost anywhere from $1,500-$2,200 per shot. Since multiple injections are often necessary, the cost can add up quickly.
Since Lipodissolve is a rather new procedure, there is still much we do not know about it. You should weigh the pros and cons before considering the treatment. However, keep in mind that until further testing is done, Lipodissolve will remain a bit of a mystery.