One of the most common problems faced by Dermatologists in our offices today is the fight against cellulite.
But what is cellulite?
In principle, it is a multifactorial meaning that appears in both sexes but with a much greater frequency in women. Heredity, sedentary lifestyle, unbalanced diet, hormonal disorders (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause), smoking and alcohol are the most common causes of cellulite. It is due to the uneven distribution of fat cells and the contraction of the subcutaneous connective tissue giving the affected area the appearance of an orange peel full of “dimples”.
FAT LOSS,
One of the best methods for fighting cellulite and unwanted local fat as well as correcting “imperfections” after liposuction is the injection of substances directly into the affected areas. The most effective substance is phosphatidylcholine, the active ingredient of which comes from soy (it has been used in the treatment of other diseases such as fatty embolism, fatty liver, etc.).
How does phosphatidcholine work?
In 1995, a Dermatologist from Brazil, Dr. Rittes developed this technique in which phosphatidocholine is injected into the surface layers of adipose tissue and causes a rupture of the fat cell membrane. This has the effect of reducing the number of fat cells in the area and therefore reducing local thickness.
How is it possible? is it painful? what symptoms does it have?
Treatment involves multiple local infiltrations of the area with phosphatidocholine. Unfortunately yes! It’s painful and that’s because of the medicine. The pain starts during the injection and can last up to a few hours. Immediately after the injection, some local erythema can be observed, then ecchymoses (bruises), local edema (swelling) and sensitivity to palpation are observed which usually last from 5-7 days. Rarely, mild diarrhea can be observed as a result of the destruction of fat cells and their elimination from the body (liver).
Are there any contraindications?
Yes, of course there are. Pregnancy and lactation, diabetes mellitus, collagen diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, dermatomyositis, etc.), severe vascular diseases, acute and chronic infections, history of allergy to B vitamins, soy, warfarin users and childhood are contraindications for starting treatment.
In which cases do you recommend phosphatidocholine treatment?
Lipolysis with phosphatidocholine is recommended for small areas. When it comes to large areas, liposuction is the treatment of choice.
Is the treatment a one time treatment or are multiple sessions required?
Multiple sessions are needed but the effectiveness of the treatment and the number of sessions are related to the response in the first session. Usually 4-8 sessions are needed.