WHAT IS MESOTHERAPY?
Medically Reviewed and Updated by Dr. Sony Sherpa (MBBS) - September 11, 2024
Mesotherapy is a procedure that is used to rejuvenate and tighten skin, as well as remove excess fat by injecting vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts into the skin.
Michel Pistor, a French doctor, created this treatment in 1952. It was originally used to relieve pain. In the years since then, it has gained popularity in the United States and in other parts of the world.
The procedure uses a very fine needle to deliver a series of injections into the middle layer (mesoderm) of the skin. Injections can help solve problems such as poor circulation and inflammation that cause skin damage.
Several solutions will be used depending on the need because mesotherapy doesn’t have a standard formula. The solution is composed of:
- Enzymes such as collagenase and hyaluronidase
- Herbal extracts
- Hormones such as calcitonin and thyroxin
- Prescription medicines such as vasodilators and antibiotics
- Vitamins and minerals
Why Is Mesotherapy Required?
Mesotherapy is utilized for:
- Acne Treatment
- Cellulite reduction
- Treating wrinkles and fine lines
- Fat removal, especially in body parts such as the stomach, thighs, buttocks, hips, legs, arms, and face
- Lightening of pigmented skin
- Recontouring the body
- Tightening loose skin
- Treating alopecia, a condition that causes hair loss
What to Expect During the Procedure?
A numbing agent is administered first, followed by a specialized injection into the skin surface. For satisfying outcomes, several mesotherapy sessions may be needed. A mesotherapy session can be repeated 3 to 25 times.
The procedure is usually performed using fine needles or a mesogun, a device designed for precise and consistent delivery of the solution. Initially, the injection is often given every 7 to 10 days; however, the frequency may vary depending on the type of treatment and individual needs. Over time, sessions may be spaced further apart as the desired results start to show.
If you are undergoing mesotherapy treatment, you may need to avoid using certain medications to avoid bleeding or complications after the procedure. Consult your doctor in advance for all your queries.
Preparation Before Mesotherapy
Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of mesotherapy and minimize potential risks. Before undergoing the procedure, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines provided by your healthcare provider. Below are key preparation steps:
- Medications to Avoid:
- Blood Thinners: Avoid medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for at least one week before the procedure to reduce the risk of bruising or bleeding.
- Supplements: Certain supplements, like fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo biloba, can also increase the likelihood of bruising. These should be discontinued, as advised by your doctor.
- Other Medications: If you’re on prescription blood thinners or medications for chronic conditions, consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions on how to manage them prior to the procedure.
- Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption for 24 hours before the procedure, as it can thin the blood and increase bruising.
- Smoking: Smoking impairs circulation and can slow the healing process. Refraining from smoking in the days leading up to the treatment is recommended.
- Skincare: Avoid using exfoliating or irritating skincare products, such as retinoids or harsh acids, at least 48 hours before the procedure to prevent skin irritation.
- Medical Conditions and Allergies:
- Inform your practitioner about any existing medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or diabetes, as these may impact the safety and effectiveness of mesotherapy.
- Disclose any allergies, especially to medications or the ingredients typically used in mesotherapy, to prevent allergic reactions.
Who Can Undergo Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a versatile treatment suitable for people seeking to address cosmetic concerns such as skin rejuvenation, fat reduction, cellulite, and hair loss. It can be personalized for different skin types and areas, making it appropriate for a broad range of applications. However, it is essential to consult a qualified practitioner to determine whether mesotherapy is the best option for your specific needs.
Benefits of Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy offers several cosmetic and therapeutic benefits:
- Skin Rejuvenation: Stimulates collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines.
- Fat Reduction and Body Contouring: Helps break down fat deposits, leading to localized fat reduction and improved body contours.
- Improved Blood Circulation: Enhances circulation, which promotes healthier skin and tissue repair.
- Hair Growth: Nourishes the hair follicles and the scalp, helping to treat hair loss and promote hair growth.
- Non-Surgical: Mesotherapy is minimally invasive and does not require general anesthesia or extended recovery time, unlike surgical alternatives.
Side Effects and Risks of Mesotherapy
While mesotherapy is generally considered safe, it is not without potential side effects and risks, including:
- Common Side Effects: Redness, swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the injection sites, typically resolving within a few days.
- Infection: Though rare, improper technique or post-procedure care can lead to infection.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may encounter allergic reactions to the injected substances, making it crucial to disclose any known allergies beforehand.
- Scarring or Pigmentation Changes: Rarely, mesotherapy may cause scarring or changes in skin pigmentation, particularly if the skin is prone to hyperpigmentation.
When to Avoid Mesotherapy (Contraindications)
Mesotherapy is not suitable for everyone. The procedure should be avoided in the following cases:
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid mesotherapy due to unknown risks to the fetus or infant.
- Blood Disorders: Individuals with blood clotting disorders or those on blood-thinning medications should not undergo mesotherapy.
- Active Skin Infections or Conditions: Mesotherapy should not be performed on skin that is currently infected, inflamed, or compromised by conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
- Chronic Diseases: People with uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or other severe chronic conditions should avoid this procedure unless approved by their healthcare provider.
Types of Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy can be customized to address different cosmetic concerns. Below are some of the common types:
- Needle-Free Mesotherapy:
- How It Works: This method delivers active ingredients into the skin using electrical impulses, i.e., avoiding needles. It is ideal for patients with a low pain tolerance or those seeking a non-invasive option. The electrical impulses open temporary channels in the skin, allowing the solution to penetrate and work beneath the surface.
- Hair Mesotherapy:
- Dutasteride Mesotherapy: This type of mesotherapy targets hair loss by injecting medications such as Dutasteride into the scalp. The treatment nourishes hair follicles and helps stimulate hair growth, making it effective for treating conditions like androgenetic alopecia.
- Mesolifting and Body Mesotherapy:
- Mesolifting: This procedure is used for facial rejuvenation. Mesolifting promotes collagen production, tightens the skin, and reduces aging signs on the face, neck, and décolletage by injecting vitamins, minerals, and hyaluronic acid into the skin.
- Body Mesotherapy: Used for fat reduction and body contouring, body mesotherapy targets localized fat deposits and cellulite. It differs from liposuction in that it is non-surgical, focusing on breaking down fat cells in the treatment area without removing them surgically.
- Mesobotox:
- What It Is: A combination of mesotherapy and Botox, mesobotox delivers diluted Botox via microinjections into the skin. Unlike traditional Botox injections that target specific muscles, mesobotox works on a superficial level to smooth fine lines and wrinkles without compromising a natural facial appearance.
Mesotherapy vs. Microneedling
While both mesotherapy and microneedling involve the use of needles, their purposes and methods differ:
- Mesotherapy: Involves directly injecting a blend of vitamins, enzymes, and other active ingredients into the mesoderm to target specific cosmetic concerns such as fat reduction, skin rejuvenation, or hair growth.
- Microneedling: This procedure employs tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which induce collagen production and enhances the absorption of topical products. It is typically used to improve skin texture, reduce scars, and minimize pores.
Post Procedure Care
After the procedure, you can return to your daily activities. This procedure is minimally invasive, and you may only feel a little pain. Treatment typically takes a maximum of 30 minutes. Also, slight bruising and swelling may be experienced, but these will fade away after 24 hours. A maintenance session is advised 1-2 times a year.
After mesotherapy, it is essential to avoid certain activities that may interfere with the healing process. These include:
- Refraining from strenuous exercise for 48 hours
- Avoiding hot baths, saunas, and sun exposure for a few days
- Steering clear of alcohol and smoking, which can impair healing
- Following the healthcare provider's instructions regarding skincare and any topical products
Mesotherapy might involve fewer complications if you consult a trained practitioner.
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