Electrolipolysis

Written by: Top Doctors^®

Published: 01/12/2012

Edited by: Top Doctors^®

Electrolipolysis is a technique that is usually used in combination with mesotherapy and consists of the application of a micro-current. This method offers very good results to eliminate discreet cellulite - holsters, thighs, hips and belly - and to obtain a considerable reduction of body volume.

The method

The current that is applied in the body is called microcurrent-current variable of low frequency and intensity-and a minimum duration of pulses-nanoseconds. Electroliposes is a method that depending on the application electrode, can be included within the field of cosmetic surgery or within the conventional aesthetic. Electrolipolysis is also called celluloliposis.

Electrolipolysis in aesthetic medicine

Electrolipolysis in aesthetic medicine consists of the application of very fine needles, similar to those used in acupuncture, which are inserted into the hypertrophied fat tissue. Through these needles a low intensity, low frequency current is generated which generates contractions in the fibrils of the subcutaneous connective tissue. These contractions make the fat cells or adipocytes become more permeable and eliminate the fats they contain inside. Later this fat will be eliminated through the urine so it is very important that the patient ingests water during the treatment to help the removal of these fatty deposits. Electrolipolysis significantly increases cell turnover and activity, improves local circulation and promotes the production of certain hormones that are related to the removal of toxins and waste elements. With this treatment the tissues are also toned and nourished by improving their elasticity and texture. This system has to be performed by an aesthetic doctor.

Conventional aesthetic electrolipolysis

Electrolipolysis in conventional aesthetics replaces the electrode through which current is applied. In this case, instead of using needles as in aesthetic medicine, superposed plates are used which transmit the same current but in a superficial form. The result is also very effective. The current stimulates the skin in a subtle and pleasant way massaging the patient pleasantly. Aesthetic electrolipolysis achieves a localized temperature increase that results in a metabolic and electrolytic stimulation. As a consequence there is a change of polarity in the cells that leads to energy consumption and hydrolysis of fats. In aesthetic electrolipolysis, unlike in aesthetic medicine, the fatty wastes generated are not eliminated through the urine but are deposited in the treated area so it is vital that the treatment is complemented by drainage methods that direct these wastes to the body's organic filters. Other complementary techniques for aesthetic electrolipolysis would be presotherapy, endermology or energy gymnastics.

Application and number of sessions

The technique itself is very simple and does not require previous application schemes. The current application electrodes are applied in the area to be treated by creating a magnetic field in which there is an active and a passive plate. The greater the number of plates, the greater the effect achieved and therefore the greater the combustion of fats. It is important that the plates do not contact one another. The intensity of the current will depend on the patient's own sensitivity. Treatment is almost always started with a medium-low intensity to increase it as the sessions are succeeded in order for the body to become accustomed. Each session lasts 45 to 60 minutes. For example, in the case of aesthetic electrolipolysis, the physician usually uses four pairs of 10 to 12 cm needles implanted in the hypodermis at a depth of one to five cm. In this case the intervention is performed in a medical consultation after a previous analysis of the area to be treated. The technique is not painful so it does not need local anesthesia.

Expected results

On average, about 6 or 10 sessions are required with a weekly frequency. The result begins to be observed from the fourth session. It is necessary during and at the end of the treatment a healthy eating habits and the practice of some sport at least twice a week. The results depend to a large extent on the age of cellulite and the quality of the tissues. As for volume, the mean is a loss of 2 cm to 5 cm the contour of the hips and 3 to 4 cm in the thighs. In terms of weight, it is normal to lose an average of 4 to 5 kilos. Once the sessions are over, the treatment continues to take effect as the cells seem to remember the process to which they have been subjected. This point is important because the patient undergoing electrolipolysis does not put on weight after finishing it but it gets the body to balance as a whole.

Contradictions

Electrolipolysis is not indicated in adolescents, pregnant women or people with overweight. Nor should this technique be used in patients who have epilepsy, have pacemakers or have heart disease. It should also be avoided in cases of phlebitis, thrombosis or embolism and on areas of inflamed skin or with grains.