What is i-Lipo?
i-Lipo is a new non-invasive laser powered treatments to assist with body shaping and targeted fat reduction. There are no incisions or needles, but a combination of laser power and vacuum massage. According to the manufacturer , treatments can be done in 20 minutes without pain. The laser and vacuum combination on top of the skin are said to stimulate and break down the triglycerides in the fat cells which causes the cells to immediately shrink. It is also touted to improve the appearance of cellulite.
How many treatments do you need?
The manufacturer recommends 8 treatments (two treatments a week for four weeks). Treatment times can be as short as 20 minutes. After each treatment you then perform a light cardio workout which is suppose to help get immediate results.
Does it really work?
According to i-Lipo “Based on results from a recent double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study of 34 volunteers, the FDA found that over 70% of participants experienced significant inch loss, thus validating the use of i-Lipo to target specifically chosen anatomical areas for fat reduction. The results represented more than double the percentage difference for meeting significant results as defined by the FDA.”
Source http://www.ilipo.com/us/about-i-lipo/
However, based on the i-Lipo reviews available on RealSelf this is not the case (so far), and there are mostly “not worth it” rated reviews. As more consumers try the treatment and write reviews we will be able to see a more accurate depiction as to if this is something worth trying. The RealSelf doctors remain skeptical, Top Doctor Richard H. Tholen previously stated 'If you were to be offered 'free' or very-low-cost treatments as part of a study protocol or surgeon's evaluation for consideration of purchase or lease, I see no potential side effects from low-level non-ionizing 650nm red laser light. But my advice at this point is to pay little or nothing, expect little to no response, and be prepared to waste your time (except for the exercise part).' This of course is not an encouragement to buy a Groupon deal to a medi-spa you've never heard of or that does not have a board certified plastic surgeon as the medical director, it simply means it may not be worth the investment. If you do choose to have i-Lipo it is still worth doing your due diligence in finding a quality provider versus looking for the best deal.
View more RealSelf Laser Treatment videos
Is i-Lipo a good alternative to Liposuction?
In short- not really, but because they each produce different results. i-Lipo can be used for minimal body shaping, but that translates to 2 centimeters or less of circumferential reduction while Liposuction can give much more drastic results. If you are looking for drastic body contouring you should consider investing in the more invasive Liposuction (which has a 81% Worth It Rating). However if you are looking for subtle changes and are not interested in the recovery period of Liposuction, i-Lipo may be right for you. This very question was asked in the Doctor Q&A and most of the consensus is that i-Lipo does not live up to the hype. However, as this treatment becomes more available the opinions may change. The idea of taking twenty minutes twice a week for a few weeks is certainly tempting. i-Lipo may be a good alternative to CoolSculpting, which is another minimally invasive fat procedure (with a 69% worth it rating). CoolScultping treatments take an hour and involve cold 'freezing' of the fat cells with some discomfort.
Have you tried i-Lipo? Write a review and share your experience.
i-Lipo is a new non-invasive laser powered treatments to assist with body shaping and targeted fat reduction. There are no incisions or needles, but a combination of laser power and vacuum massage. According to the manufacturer , treatments can be done in 20 minutes without pain. The laser and vacuum combination on top of the skin are said to stimulate and break down the triglycerides in the fat cells which causes the cells to immediately shrink. It is also touted to improve the appearance of cellulite.
How many treatments do you need?
The manufacturer recommends 8 treatments (two treatments a week for four weeks). Treatment times can be as short as 20 minutes. After each treatment you then perform a light cardio workout which is suppose to help get immediate results.
Does it really work?
According to i-Lipo “Based on results from a recent double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study of 34 volunteers, the FDA found that over 70% of participants experienced significant inch loss, thus validating the use of i-Lipo to target specifically chosen anatomical areas for fat reduction. The results represented more than double the percentage difference for meeting significant results as defined by the FDA.”
Source http://www.ilipo.com/us/about-i-lipo/
However, based on the i-Lipo reviews available on RealSelf this is not the case (so far), and there are mostly “not worth it” rated reviews. As more consumers try the treatment and write reviews we will be able to see a more accurate depiction as to if this is something worth trying. The RealSelf doctors remain skeptical, Top Doctor Richard H. Tholen previously stated 'If you were to be offered 'free' or very-low-cost treatments as part of a study protocol or surgeon's evaluation for consideration of purchase or lease, I see no potential side effects from low-level non-ionizing 650nm red laser light. But my advice at this point is to pay little or nothing, expect little to no response, and be prepared to waste your time (except for the exercise part).' This of course is not an encouragement to buy a Groupon deal to a medi-spa you've never heard of or that does not have a board certified plastic surgeon as the medical director, it simply means it may not be worth the investment. If you do choose to have i-Lipo it is still worth doing your due diligence in finding a quality provider versus looking for the best deal.
View more RealSelf Laser Treatment videos
Is i-Lipo a good alternative to Liposuction?
In short- not really, but because they each produce different results. i-Lipo can be used for minimal body shaping, but that translates to 2 centimeters or less of circumferential reduction while Liposuction can give much more drastic results. If you are looking for drastic body contouring you should consider investing in the more invasive Liposuction (which has a 81% Worth It Rating). However if you are looking for subtle changes and are not interested in the recovery period of Liposuction, i-Lipo may be right for you. This very question was asked in the Doctor Q&A and most of the consensus is that i-Lipo does not live up to the hype. However, as this treatment becomes more available the opinions may change. The idea of taking twenty minutes twice a week for a few weeks is certainly tempting. i-Lipo may be a good alternative to CoolSculpting, which is another minimally invasive fat procedure (with a 69% worth it rating). CoolScultping treatments take an hour and involve cold 'freezing' of the fat cells with some discomfort.
Have you tried i-Lipo? Write a review and share your experience.