There has been a lot of talk about lipodissolve injections. Often publicized as a "non-surgical" form of liposuction, the jury is still out on whether or not this "fat-melting" injection is safe.

What are lipodissolve injections?

Also known as lipolysis and mesotherapy, lipodissolve consists of a chemical solution that has the ability to dissolve fat. This solution is injected into the fatty and connective tissues where pockets of unwanted fat are located.

Lipodissolve can be used in just about any area that traditional liposuction can treat.

What's all the fuss about?

Because these injections have not yet been approved by the FDA, not everyone is convinced that this method of liposuction is safe. The chemical solution that gets injected into the fat can vary from one doctor to the next. Although the injection solution consists mostly of phosphatidylcholine and deoxycholate, two naturally made chemicals, other added ingredients, such as enzymes, multivitamins, alpha lipid acid, and a variety of plant extracts, are not approved for use by themselves by the FDA.

Although several studies have been conducted, the results are still considered preliminary. One such study was conducted by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). In this study, seven people were injected with a standard lipodissolve cocktail in one half of their abdomen. These injections were given in four separate sessions spaced eight weeks apart. Magnetic resonance imaging was then used to measure the thickness of the fat. It was found that the area treated with the lipodissolve injection reduced the layer of fat by 1 cm. Six out of the seven participants reported seeing a visible difference and opted to have the other side of their abdomen treated. The most common side effects reported by the study participants were swelling, bruising, redness, and mild pain. No serious side effects were seen or reported in this particular study.

The next step in determining whether or not these injections are safe is to follow the study participants for a longer period of time, as well as study a larger group of people.

While some people may shy away from lipodissolve injections due to the solution used not being FDA approved, this does not necessarily mean that the solution is not a safe. In the last three years alone, more than 50,000 people have turned to lipodissolve injections to remove excess fat from their bodies without serious side effects.

As is the case with any type of medical treatment, what's important is that you discuss each and every issue surrounding lipodissolve injections with your doctor before you undergo such a procedure. In addition, be sure to do your research and learn all that you can about lipodissolve, along with its associated risks, side effects, costs, and which doctor would be the best to perform this medical treatment.