Liposuction injections, also known as injection lipolysis or lipo shots, are gaining popularity as a non-surgical method to reduce localized fat deposits. This article explores how these injections work, their potential benefits, risks, and what to consider before undergoing treatment.
How Fat-Dissolving Injections Work
Injection lipolysis involves administering a series of injections under the skin to break down fat cells in the targeted areas. The process relies on substances that disrupt fat cell membranes, leading to cell death and the subsequent removal of the fat by the body's natural processes.
Common Ingredients
Several substances are used in fat-dissolving injections, with phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and sodium deoxycholate (DC) being the most common. These ingredients, sometimes referred to as “PCDC injections,” have been used alone or in combination. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) helps the body digest and remove excess fat. Sodium deoxycholate (DC) is a bile salt that acts as a detergent to solubilize PC, and promotes fat cell digestion by disrupting their cellular structure.
FDA Approval and Unapproved Injections
It is crucial to note that many fat-dissolving injections marketed online are not FDA-approved. The FDA has received reports of adverse reactions from consumers using unapproved fat-dissolving injections sold under various brand names, including Aqualyx, Lipodissolve, Lipo Lab, and Kabelline. The only FDA-approved fat-dissolving injectable drug is Kybella, which contains deoxycholic acid and is approved for reducing fat under the chin (double chin) in adults.
Risks and Side Effects
Adverse Reactions from Unapproved Injections
Using unapproved fat-dissolving injections poses significant safety risks. The FDA has not evaluated the safety or effectiveness of these products, and consumers have reported adverse reactions such as:
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- Permanent scars
- Serious infections
- Skin deformities
- Cysts
- Deep, painful knots
Some consumers received these injections at clinics or med spas from personnel who may not have been properly licensed. Others purchased the drugs online and injected themselves, further increasing the risk of complications.
Risks from Improper Injection Techniques
Regardless of the product used, improper or unsafe injection practices can lead to scarring, skin infections, and other serious complications. The correct number and location of injections, proper needle placement, and proper administration technique are essential for safe and effective use. Consumers should not purchase ingredients for unapproved fat-dissolving injections or inject the drugs themselves. Accidental injection into the muscle causes excruciating pain because of myonecrosis.
Side Effects of Approved Injections
Even with FDA-approved injections like Kybella, side effects can occur. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, pain, redness, and areas of hardness that typically soften over time. More serious but uncommon complications include nerve injury that can result in an uneven smile and, in rare instances, difficulty swallowing.
Systemic Side Effects
Systemic side effects of injection lipolysis are more likely when higher dosages are used, such as when treating multiple regions at once. These effects, often parasympathetic reactions, can include dull headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and/or steatorrhea.
Benefits of Lipo C Injections
Lipo C injections (lipolysis or mesotherapy) offer several potential benefits:
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- Targeted Fat Reduction: Injections can be used as a spot treatment to reduce fat in specific areas.
- Non-Surgical: Lipo C injections are a minimally invasive solution that does not come with the risk of scarring or anesthesia.
- Permanent Fat Removal: Fat cells are permanently removed via the body’s natural processes.
- Convenience: Patients can typically return to their normal routine immediately after treatment.
Lipo C Injection Ingredients and Their Benefits
Lipo C injections often contain a combination of ingredients, each with specific functions:
- Choline: Essential for proper liver function, choline helps export fat and bile from the liver, detoxify the liver, and promote fat metabolism.
- Inositol: This lipotropic helps the body break down fat, maintain psychiatric equilibrium, and sustain feminine reproductive health.
- Methionine: An essential amino acid that deactivates hormones, defends the body against toxins, and aids in breaking down sugars and carbohydrates into energy.
- Vitamin B12: Essential for normal blood, brain, heart, and nervous system functions, as well as fat metabolism.
- B Complex Vitamins: These vitamins can increase energy and promote fat metabolism.
Ideal Candidates for Lipo C Injections
The best candidates for Lipo C injections are individuals who:
- Want to eliminate excess fat without surgery or anesthesia.
- Are healthy nonsmokers in good overall health.
- Have realistic expectations about the results.
- Are committed to maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Lipo C injections may not be suitable for pregnant or nursing women or individuals with chronic conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, or thyroid conditions.
The Procedure and Recovery
Consultation and Preparation
Before undergoing Lipo C injections, a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider is essential. During this consultation, the provider will review your medical history, discuss your goals, and determine if the procedure is right for you.
To prepare for the procedure, you may need to:
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- Refrain from drinking alcohol 24 hours before and after treatment.
- Stop taking blood thinners 1-2 weeks before.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to your appointment.
The Injection Process
During the procedure, the skin is cleansed, and the injection is administered near the treatment area. The process typically takes about 30 minutes, and patients can return home immediately afterward.
Recovery and Results
Lipo C injections do not require recovery or downtime. Over the next few weeks, you should see a reduction in the amount of excess fat in your body. Results can be long-lasting if you maintain a healthy diet and exercise schedule.
Alternatives to Lipo C Injections
Several other non-surgical body contouring treatments are available, including:
- Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting): Freezes unwanted fat cells to help the body break them down.
- Emsculpt: A muscle-building treatment that uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy (HIFEM) to stimulate muscle contractions.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy fat cells.
- HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound): Uses ultrasound energy to target and destroy fat cells.
- Liposuction: A surgical procedure to remove subcutaneous fat.
Liposuction vs. Injection Lipolysis
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves removing fat through suction. It is more invasive than injection lipolysis and typically requires anesthesia and downtime. In contrast, injection lipolysis is a non-surgical procedure that involves injecting substances to dissolve fat cells. It is less invasive and requires no downtime, but it may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results. Liposuction is a onetime surgical procedure, whereas injection lipolysis is a nonsurgical procedure and needs multiple sittings along with a longer lag phase for final result to be apparent.
PC-DC Combination for Injection Lipolysis
Studies have reported the efficacy of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and deoxycholate (DC), as well as their combination with other additives, for injection lipolysis. Rotunda et al. postulated that using PC solubilized in DC produced better results with fewer side effects. The resultant cocktail has synergistic action and shows lipolytic action when injected into subcutaneous fat. The effects were best appreciated over the face (malar, jawline, and submental areas) and upper arm, whereas average effect was observed on the thighs and around the knees. The results are better appreciated in primary lipolysis.
Lipotropic Injections
Lipotropic injections contain vitamins and nutrients that some people believe may support weight loss. Lipotropics are nutrients, vitamins, and other ingredients that may help boost your metabolism and slow down or remove fat deposits in your liver. Lipotropic injections are supplements people use for fat loss and aim to complement other aspects of a weight loss regimen, including exercise and a low-calorie diet.
Ingredients in Lipotropic Injections
Common ingredients in lipotropic injections include:
- Vitamin B6
- Methionine
- Inositol
- Choline
- B1 Thiamine
- B2 Riboflavin
- Carnitine
Benefits of Lipotropic Injections
Lipotropic injections may offer several benefits, including:
- Boosted metabolism
- Fat burning support
- Liver health
- Increased energy levels
Side Effects of Lipotropic Injections
Common side effects of lipotropic injections include:
- Injection site reactions (soreness, redness, or swelling)
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Allergic reactions (rare)
Lipotropic Injections vs. Ozempic
While both lipotropic injections and Ozempic have roles in weight management, they function differently. Ozempic (semaglutide) mimics a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, helping to decrease appetite and lower calorie intake. Lipotropic injections, on the other hand, aim to boost the body’s fat-burning and energy-producing capabilities.
The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle
Regardless of the type of injection or treatment chosen, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for achieving and maintaining long-term results. This includes:
- Eating a balanced diet of whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, fruits, and vegetables.
- Limiting added sugars, sodium, saturated and trans fats, and alcohol.
- Getting at least 150 minutes weekly of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise.
- Strength training for at least 2 days weekly.
- Sleeping for 7 to 9 hours each night.
Reporting Side Effects to the FDA
If you experience any adverse reactions after receiving fat-dissolving injections, it is important to seek medical care and report the side effects to the FDA’s MedWatch program.
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