Non-surgical liposuction

Editors-In-Chief: Martin I. Newman, M.D., FACS, Cleveland Clinic Florida, [mailto:Newmanm@ccf.org]; Michel C. Samson, M.D., FRCSC, FACS [mailto:SAMSONM1@ccf.org]

Overview
Non-surgical liposuction is an alternative to surgical liposuction, in which fat is reduced using various technologies which attempt to melt and liquify a person's fat cells using non-invasive methods such as ultrasonics, lasers amd injections of chemical agents. In the standard techniques used the skin normally gets tightened in order to avoid excess skin caused by fat reduction.

The first technology was developed in approximately the late 1980s, and was approved in the United States by the FDA in 2007. The subject is a rapidly evolving field, with some of the newest technologies not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration but approved by health departments in other countries.

In his book Mantalk: Tips from the Pros for Good Looks, Good Health, And Maintaining Your Competitive Edge, plastic surgeon Elliot Jacobs wrote: "These devices... appear to be safe, but further research is needed to determine if the procedure could effect cells other than fat cells. Early results indicate that this technology will be best for recontouring bulges rather than large volume fat removal... However, physicians have concerns about whether the appropriate amount of fat &mdash; neither too little nor too much &mdash; is dissolved through these injections, and what the short-term and long-term side effects may be. Claims as to the safety and efficacy of this product have so far not been substantiated by scientific clinical trials in the United States."

Injection of chemical agents, known as mesotherapy, is typically done using the compound phosphatidylcholine.

Areas of treatment
Non-surgical liposuction may be used on various areas of the human body, including the face, back, mons pubis, thighs, hips, buttocks, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck. The procedure has also been used to treat gynecomastia by reducing excess fat from enlarged male breasts.

Technologies
There are three basic technologies used: laser, ultrasound waves and "CoolLipo" laser. The laser technologies are differentiated mainly by the wavelength of light used. All of the technologies are claimed to work selectively on the fat cells without affecting the neighboring cells, and with low, or no downtime. They require no anesthesia and are claimed to have no risks or side effects. In some cases technologies are combined together for better results.