Phosphatidylcholine in fat dissolving injections is derived from soy beans. As fat dissolving injections used for cosmetic purposes, it penetrates the fat cells and is broken down into 2 primary components. One acts as an emulsifier and the other triggers the activation of an enzyme action which then breaks down the fat permanently. These fat cells do not return. Depending on the area treated and individual response, the client may require 1 to 4 treatments with at least 2 months interval between treatments to achieve the desired effect. Once the fat is dissolved, the overlying skin tends to tighten over the treated area. If there is weight gain after treatment, the treated area tends not to increase in size as much and the overall body shape tends to be better.

Clinically, phosphatidylcholine is also used for intravenous treatment of fat embolism, lowering cholesterol levels and as a liver protective substance.
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Where can fat dissolving injections be used?
Fat dissolving injections are most commonly used around the abdomen, love handles and lower back. It can also be used around thighs, buttocks, arms, facial jowls, double chins and to treat lipomas.
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How much weight will I lose after each treatment?
This procedure is not a weight loss program. It is more a sculpting tool to improve the shape of the body. Weight loss is usually minimal but the shape and circumference of the injected area will alter.
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Are fat dissolving injections painful?
These injections are done with minimal discomfort and they are very well tolerated. Local anesthetic may be applied to the treatment area if desired. The gauge of the needles used is similar to the one used by diabetics who inject themselves with insulin on a daily basis. For clients who have experienced anti-wrinkle injections, these are very comparable in the discomfort score. Fat dissolving injections are commonly done using a multi-injector which makes the process rather fast even for large areas of treatment. The size of the needle is a small fraction of the ones used for taking blood.
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What are the side effects and down time for fat dissolving injections?
Redness, swelling, soreness and bruising are common side effects which may last on average between 3 and 7 days and rarely, up to a couple of weeks. Other uncommon side effects may include nausea, diarrhoea, transient lumps, sensitivity of the injected areas and very rarely, pigmentation especially in naturally darker skin individuals. Like all injections which break the skin barrier, there is a theoretical risk of infection but utmost care is taken to keep the procedure as sterile as possible.

Most clients treated in non facial areas are happy to return to work the following day but it is probably a good idea to do this just prior to the weekend or if you have a rostered day off the following day. Clients having treatment around the face and neck area may want to have a few days off work as swelling in these areas are more difficult to conceal.
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Are fat dissolving injections safe?
Phosphatidylcholine has been used as fat dissolving injections since 2003 and the available clinical date on safety so far has been very promising. It has been used in various other medical applications including intravenous treatment for lowering cholesterol for many more years. So far, there is not a single reported case of anaphylaxis. However we are still waiting for more long term data on cosmetic use of phosphatidylcholine.
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What does the procedure involve?
Firstly the area to be injected will be marked and measured. Photographs will be taken and it's important for clients to wear the same underwear for their before and after photographs if areas around the abdomen, hips or thighs are injected. The area to be injected will be prepared with local anaesthetic if the client wishes but most consider the procedure minimally uncomfortable without local anaesthetic. Antiseptic lotion will be applied before the client receives a series of microinjections about 1.5cm apart in the marked area. In moderate to large areas this is usually done using a 5 needle multi-injector. The procedure is usually done lying down. After the procedure the client is advised to stay behind to be monitored for around half an hour to an hour. Massaging may reduce lumps and arnica (natural remedy available over the counter) may be applied to reduce bruising. Adequate hydration is important after the procedure.
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What can I do to prepare myself for this procedure?
To prevent bruising, it is best to stay away from anti-inflammatories e.g. Aspirin, Nurofen or Voltaren a few days prior to the procedure. Alcohol is also not a good idea on the day and should be kept to a minimum the day before. A good sleep the night before and minimising stress helps with the perception of pain. Remaining calm and relaxed means the procedure will be done usually with relative comfort.

We would also recommend using arnica (a natural remedy against bruising) before and after the procedure. You may also want to prepare the area to be injected with a local anaesthetic called EMLA which is available over the counter. This is best applied under glad wrap and left on for an hour or so prior to the procedure. This is usually not necessary unless you have a very low pain threshold.
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When would I see results?
Results generally take around 4 to 8 weeks to show.
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Am I a suitable candidate for fat dissolving injections?
Fat dissolving injections are most suitable for people looking for localized fat loss. It works best for soft “jelly-like” fat and is especially effective for people who are already exercising and watching their diet but there are areas of fat which is not budging.

Fat dissolving injection is best seen as a sculpting tool rather than something which is used for massive weight loss. Results are usually disappointing for clients who are significantly overweight or obese. It does not replace exercise or a proper diet as a means of weight loss. Fat dissolving injections should not be performed on pregnant or breastfeeding women, clients with liver, kidney or autoimmune diseases.
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How much do fat dissolving injections cost?
Fat dissolving injections cost between $300 and $700 depending on the size of the treated area. In general a maximum safe dosage of 2500mg may be used in one sitting and that will treat an area equivalent to an A4 sized sheet of paper.
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Why should I choose to have my fat dissolving injections at Le Temple?
At Le Temple, your treatment is performed by a cosmetic physician. Your cosmetic physician is also trained according the standards of the international Network Lipolysis and is an active participant in this global network which increases the safety of these treatments. Only the safest substance produced according the the Network standards is used for your treatment. We take a balanced, multidisciplinary approach to improving your body shape. Therefore, we will be able to offer you sound dietary advice as well as make appropriate recommendations regarding your exercise regime including performance enhancing supplementations.
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Links:

http://www. network-lipolysis.com

http://www.asal-meso.com/html/news_list.htm