Is Mesotherapy a Good Alternative to Liposuction for Removing Belly Fat? I'm Afraid of Anesthesia.

Liposuction, a surgical procedure, is typically employed for the removal of fat cells from larger areas of the body. This process entails the insertion of a thin plastic tube through small incisions in your skin and using a surgical vacuum to suction out the fat. The procedure requires anesthesia, either general or local, depending on the specific procedure and the size of the treatment area. Liposuction is renowned for its dramatic results, which are permanent. However, coupled with a recovery period that can span up to six weeks, should not be underestimated. Moreover, the financial implications are significant, with an average cost of €3,500 in 2020. On the contrary, mesotherapy is a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. It involves injecting a concoction of substances like enzymes, hormones, and natural plant extracts into the fat layer beneath the skin. These injections aim to break down fat cells and enhance the appearance of cellulite or small, localized fat deposits. The non-invasive nature of mesotherapy means that it doesn't require anesthesia, and it has a shorter recovery time compared to liposuction. Mesotherapy is also more affordable than liposuction, costing between €300 and €700 per session (2020), but multiple sessions are usually necessary to achieve the desired results. The efficacy of mesotherapy is less well-established due to insufficient research, and results are typically less dramatic, more variable, and temporary compared to liposuction. While mesotherapy may seem appealing due to its non-surgical nature and lower costs, the differences between the two procedures should be well understood. If you are mainly concerned about undergoing anesthesia, mesotherapy may be an option to consider, especially for smaller areas. However, if you wish to treat a larger area of fat, liposuction may provide more substantial and permanent results. Regardless of the method you lean towards, it is crucial to consult with a qualified medical professional, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. They can provide expert advice tailored to your specific situation and can also inform you about other non-surgical fat reduction procedures, like cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting), laser lipolysis, or radiofrequency treatments, which may be better suited to your needs.