Lipolysis

Injectable lipolysis (intralipotherapy) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical method of removing localized body fat, involving the injection of special preparations directly into problematic areas. The injections allow for precise administration and even distribution of the active substance, resulting in better outcomes. The most commonly used active ingredient is phosphatidylcholine, which acts on fat cells. The active ingredients administered during injectable lipolysis dissolve the cell membranes of fat cells, leading to their degradation, and are then transported to the liver and naturally excreted from the body through the kidneys.

During injectable lipolysis, a large amount of the preparation cannot be administered at once. Therefore, the procedure is carried out in stages. The amount of preparation used during the procedure depends on the amount of fatty tissue in the treated area and the patient's expectations. The necessary amount of preparation for the procedure is determined by the doctor during the pre-treatment consultation.

The procedure is performed using thin needles, minimizing patient discomfort. It is carried out in outpatient settings and usually takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.

Injectable lipolysis is a procedure that allows effectively getting rid of locally accumulated body fat from selected areas of the body. The procedure is most commonly performed on body parts such as:

• double chin (jawline contouring),
• arms in the triceps area,
• fat folds on the abdomen,
• thighs or hips.

However, injectable lipolysis can also be carried out in the following areas:

• fat pads in the armpit area,
• fatty neck (known as buffalo hump),
• back folds (love handles),
• hips,
• upper thighs,
• buttock area,
• inner side of the knees,
• lipomas.

Injectable lipolysis is a very precise procedure, allowing the doctor to focus on problematic areas. This procedure is characterized by high effectiveness and a short recovery period, enabling patients to quickly return to their daily activities. It is worth noting that intralipotherapy is one of the slimming and body contouring procedures that allow for the reduction of fat deposits in selected areas that are difficult to sculpt through diet and exercise. Therefore, it should not be seen as a weight loss method but rather as support in achieving the desired results in weight loss.

• Fat tissue reduction - decrease in the amount of accumulated fat in treated areas.
• Body circumference reduction - an average reduction of 2-4 cm in the area subjected to lipolysis.
• Silhouette modeling - improvement of body proportions and contour shaping.
• Cellulite reduction - smoothing of skin texture and reduction of the "orange peel" effect.
• Skin firming - improvement of elasticity by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.
• Improvement of skin structure - evening out the surface, increasing its tension and elasticity.
• Fatty deposit reduction - gradual reduction or complete elimination of benign fatty lumps.

Advantages and benefits of injection lipolysis:

• Permanent effects - once fat cells are removed, they do not regenerate.
• Gradual fat elimination - effects visible after a few weeks, full reduction achieved after a few months.
• Acceleration of fat metabolism - support for natural lipolysis processes in the body.
• Non-surgical alternative to liposuction - less invasive method of fat reduction.
• Painlessness and short recovery time - the patient can quickly return to daily activities.
• Precise action - the treatment allows for fat reduction in specific, problematic areas.

The cost of injection lipolysis treatment depends on several factors, such as the body area being treated, the number of sessions required, and the quantity and type of solution used. Prices start at 500 PLN for a single session for treatment on the chin. The final cost of injection lipolysis is determined by the number of ampoules used during the treatment. It is worth remembering that to achieve optimal results, a series of treatments is recommended.

Below is an approximate number of vials and treatments needed to reduce fat tissue in various body areas. It is important to remember that the exact dosage and number of sessions are determined individually by a specialist, depending on the amount of fat tissue and the body's response.

Thanks to injectable lipolysis, effective reduction of fat tissue in hard-to-reach areas is possible. The recommended number of treatments depends on individual needs and the body's response, so it is best to consult with a doctor to determine the optimal therapy.

The effects of the procedure are gradually visible, usually after about 3-4 weeks significant reduction in fat tissue can be observed. It should be emphasized, however, that to achieve satisfactory results, it is necessary to undergo a series of 3 to 6 sessions of injection lipolysis at intervals of 3-6 weeks. If the amount of fat tissue is small, even 2 sessions may be sufficient to achieve the expected results. Most patients are satisfied with the effects after 2-3 sessions. Completing a series of sessions can result in a loss of up to 4-5 cm in circumference at the injection site.

Injection lipolysis is an effective method for reducing body fat, but not everyone can benefit from it. There are specific contraindications that may exclude the procedure:

• Active skin infections and inflammatory conditions – such as herpes, eczema, acne, boils, open wounds, or other skin changes at the treatment site.
• Use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs – certain substances can disrupt the regeneration process and increase the risk of complications.
• Blood clotting disorders – taking anticoagulant drugs (e.g. aspirin, heparin) can lead to excessive bruising and bleeding.
• Allergy to the ingredients of the preparation – individuals allergic to phosphatidylcholine, sodium deoxycholate, or other substances used in injection lipolysis should not undergo the procedure.
• Diabetes (especially uncontrolled) – may hinder healing and increase the risk of infection.
• Liver and kidney diseases – these organs are responsible for metabolizing fat, and their failure can lead to serious side effects.
• Autoimmune diseases – such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis – may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
• Tendency to develop keloids and hypertrophic scars – individuals prone to excessive scarring may experience unsightly changes at the injection sites.
• Severe obesity (BMI >30) – injection lipolysis is not a treatment for obesity, but a way to reduce localized fat deposits.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding – substances in the preparations may pass into the child's body and pose a risk.
• Cancer (active or previous) – increases the risk of complications, requiring prior medical consultation.
• Epilepsy – individuals with epilepsy may be more susceptible to neurological reactions after the procedure.
• Active infectious diseases – such as viral hepatitis, HIV, tuberculosis – can weaken the body and increase the risk of complications.

To achieve the best results and avoid adverse effects, it is advisable to consult a cosmetic medicine doctor before undergoing injection lipolysis.

To achieve optimal results and minimize the risk of complications, after an injection lipolysis procedure, it is important to follow several key principles. Through proper care and regenerative practices, the body will more quickly eliminate released fat, and the skin will become firmer and tighter.

Immediately after the procedure:

• Avoid touching and massaging the injection sites – in the first few hours after the procedure, the skin may be red and swollen, so it is important not to irritate it.
• Apply cool compresses – if swelling or slight discomfort occurs, you can apply cold compresses to alleviate the discomfort.
• Drink plenty of water – hydrating the body supports the process of eliminating released fat and toxins. It is recommended to drink at least 2-3 liters of water per day.

In the first few days after the procedure:

• Avoid intense physical activity – for about 3-5 days, it is recommended to avoid strenuous exercises that may exacerbate swelling.
• Avoid saunas and hot baths – heat can exacerbate swelling and prolong the healing process.
• Avoid alcohol and fatty foods – alcohol and a high-calorie diet can slow down the fat elimination process and weaken the effects of the procedure.
• Follow a light diet that supports metabolism – foods rich in fiber, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats are recommended to support fat elimination from the body.
• Avoid sun exposure – UV radiation can irritate the skin and lead to discoloration at the injection sites.

In the following weeks:

• Regularly perform lymphatic massages or drainage – they support the natural elimination of fat and accelerate the effects of the procedure.
• Consider additional skin-tightening treatments – to improve skin firmness, treatments such as radiofrequency, endermology, or carboxytherapy are worth considering.
• Avoid smoking cigarettes – nicotine weakens microcirculation and slows down skin regeneration, which can affect the final outcome of the procedure.

The effects of injection lipolysis are visible gradually – initial changes can be observed after 2-3 weeks, and full results usually appear after 4-8 weeks. Adhering to post-procedural recommendations not only helps increase the effectiveness of the procedure but also helps maintain the achieved results for longer.