Mesotherapy is a nonsurgical, permanent method for fat removal, body contouring and is also used for hair loss and skin ageing. It was first developed in France in 1952 to treat vascular and lymphatic disorders. However, it was discovered that depending on the different substances injected, mesotherapy might also be useful in treating chronic pain, hair loss (alopecia), bone and joint disorders and psoriasis. More recently, with the discovery that body fat can be reduced with the injection of certain substances, mesotherapy is widely being used to help with weight loss, cellulite reduction, body sculpting, wrinkle removal and facial rejuvenation.

What are the side effects of mesotherapy?

Because mesotherapy is administered directly to the desired area, it is believed that side effects are limited or reduced. Reported side effects of mesotherapy include:

• Immediate or delayed allergic reaction to the injected drugs/solutions
• Lecithin is known to cause inflammation and swelling
• Skin infections
• Pigmentation at the injection site
• Bruising at the injection site
• Ulceration, scarring and deformity at the injection site
• Panniculitis.

Currently, it is unknown what happens to the broken down fat cells once they leave the targeted area and what effects the various substances injected may have on the body’s organs and tissues. Further research into the safety of this technique is needed.

Mesotherapy — yes or no?

Although mesotherapy has been used for decades in Europe there is very little scientific or clinical evidence to support this technique. There also appears to be no standardisation within the practice in terms of what substances are used, quantities used and amount and frequency of injections.

The purported advantages of mesotherapy are its non-surgical approach, minimal or no pain experienced, fewer complications and less downtime. In terms of cost, the total cost of several mesotherapy sessions is similar to a liposuction procedure.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, liposuction is the only method that has been proven to safely and effectively remove fat.