In the previous article, we looked at alternate methods of fat removal, completely removing the need for surgery. In this article, we will continue to look at the actual methods, the procedures, the possible risks and the ultimate effects.

Let us start with the most popular methods for non-surgical fat removal:



  • Low level laser light – When a low level laser light is applied to the skin, it reduces the general stability of the adipocyte cell membranes. This allows the cells to break through from the membranes, and releasing the fat that has been stored within, without causing any damage to the actual cell. The fat is actually released into the extracellular space, which is why you might be asked to indulge in some cardio based exercise, which will help get rid of the cell from the body. The exercise will accentuate the lymph flow as well as the lipid usage. This is the same reason, you would also be asked to drink plenty of water or other liquids, post the procedure.
  • Ultrasound – For years, ultrasound has been associated with pregnancy, because this is the method that is used to observe the health and growth of an unborn foetus. However, today, ultrasound is being used for a range of other purposes, including removal of unwanted body fat. Ultrasound of a thermal nature is focused on the target area, which leads to the death and coagulation of the adipocytes, while not causing any harm to the vessels and nerves. The passive heat also leads to the remodelling of the collagen. When the ultrasound energy is focused at a specific point, the heat penetrates only the point, leaving the surrounding area safe. There will be no need for any premedication, but the areas that need to be treated, will be marked beforehand. A thin layer of gel will be applied on the skin and the transducer head will be moved over this area. The same area might be worked over, multiple times. Generally, a single session could last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.
  • Cryolipolysis – When cryogenics is used to induce lipolysis, the process is known as cryolipolysis. Instead of heat, this is when extreme cold is used, because while adipose tissues can be burnt, they can also be frozen to death. Imagine a controlled frostbite – the fat cells will freeze, before anything happens to the skin and this frozen fat actually dies and gets absorbed by the skin. The fat will be sucked into a hand piece, and the area will be cooled down slowly. Multiple treatments might be required, for the results to become visible.  
  • Injection lipolysis – Also known as Mesotherapy, this is a procedure that is still not very popular, because the results have not been completely approved. Normally, the procedure will entail a series of injections, which will be made in the area where there is excess fat. The specially created chemical cocktail will attack the fat cells, leading to their destruction.

You will also need to know how long the results will last:

The results of liposuction or any other non-surgical fat removal methods are permanent, because the adult body does not create any new fat cells. Normally, when you gain weight, the existing cells expand. So, once the fat cells have been destroyed, they will not grow back. However, you will have to keep meeting your plastic surgeon, in order to ensure that nothing is going wrong with the procedure. In addition, it would be wise to eat right and exercise as regularly as possible, because it will help you keep in shape.

There are also several risks and limitations that are associated with non-surgical fat removal methods:

Fortunately, there are minimal side effects and risks associated with non-surgical fat removal methods, but there are cases, where things have gone wrong. Normally, when you meet a doctor, they will educate you about the same and will ensure that you are aware of what could go wrong.

Here are some of the things that can go wrong or are considered the most common side effects of the procedures:

  • There could be redness, numbness, a tingling feeling, itching or even slight bruising, but these should be temporary and should fade away in some time
  • In certain cases, there has been observed a temporary loss or dulling of sensation
  • There is the possibility of infection, especially when clean tools have not been used
  • If the tools are not used properly, it could lead to bleeding
  • Scars are also a possible side effect
  • There are certain people who are allergic to certain chemicals, and if they are undergoing Mesotherapy, there is a strong chance of an allergic reaction
  • Normally, when the fat cells or the adipose cells are being destroyed, the surrounding tissues are not damaged. However, in certain cases, the same could happen and there could be severe damage to the underlying structures.
  • During ultrasound, if the procedure is not done with care, there could be small or minor burns
  • If you are not happy with the results, you will need to go either for repeat or rectifying procedures

When you are going for any such procedure, it is important that you do your homework first. Talk to several doctors and medical practitioners, to gauge which would be the perfect course of treatment for you and only then finalise on one. Choose to get your treatment done from someone who has the requisite certifications and licenses.

It is also important to remember that these procedures are not meant to be seen as a weight loss treatment, rather as a method of fat reduction. These procedures are best suited for removing limited amounts of fat, from areas such as the abdomen, thighs and back. If the fat deposits are too high, then the only option out might be a surgical method, such as liposuction.

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