Medical Aesthetics

What Is Mesotherapy? The Process and What to Know

Medical AestheticsOp. Dr. Yasemin Aydınlı·5 min read

Mesotherapy is a medical aesthetic treatment in which ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids and hyaluronic acid are delivered directly into the skin with very fine needles. The aim is to nourish the skin, provide moisture support and contribute to a livelier, more radiant appearance. It is not a surgical procedure; it is usually applied in several sessions and its effect is not permanent.

What is mesotherapy done for?

It is most often used for skin revitalization: it is preferred to support skin that has lost moisture, looks dull, has fine lines or generally appears tired. It can be applied to areas such as the face, neck, décolleté and backs of the hands. Hair mesotherapy for hair loss is a separate treatment and uses different ingredients.

How does it differ from PRP and Salmon DNA?

These treatments are often confused; they all aim to revitalize the skin, but their ingredients differ. Classic mesotherapy uses a ready-made vitamin-mineral mixture. PRP uses platelet-rich plasma obtained from the person's own blood. Salmon DNA (polynucleotide) treatments deliver a different, reparative ingredient. Which one is suitable is determined by the condition of the skin, expectations and the examination.

How is it applied?

The application is done by delivering small doses into the superficial layer of the skin with a very fine needle. The procedure is usually short; comfort is often improved with a topical numbing cream. Several sessions at certain intervals are usually recommended; the number of sessions varies according to the skin's needs.

When is the effect seen, and is it permanent?

The effect of mesotherapy appears not in a single session but gradually as the sessions progress. The effect is not permanent; maintenance sessions may be needed over time to preserve the skin's vitality. The result varies by person, skin type and the ingredient used.

Who should be careful?

Mesotherapy may not be recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or if there is an active infection or a known allergy at the application site. For this reason it is important to assess the medical history before the application and to have the procedure performed by a physician. A realistic expectation is an important part of satisfaction.

What should be paid attention to afterwards?

After the application there may be short-lived mild redness, small bumps or bruises, which usually pass quickly. In the first hours, not rubbing the area and following the physician's advice on makeup and sun protection help recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mesotherapy permanent?

No. Its effect is temporary; maintenance sessions at certain intervals may be needed to preserve the vitality.

How many sessions are needed?

Several sessions are usually recommended; the exact number is personalized according to the condition of the skin and expectations.

Are mesotherapy and PRP the same thing?

No. Mesotherapy uses a ready-made vitamin-mineral mixture, while PRP uses plasma obtained from the person's own blood. Although the aim is similar, the ingredient is different.

Is it painful?

It is done with very fine needles and discomfort is usually reduced with a numbing cream; for most people the procedure is comfortable.

About the Author

Op. Dr. Yasemin Aydınlı is a graduate of Hacettepe University English Medical Faculty and completed her specialty training at Ankara University. She is a member of TPRECD and ISAPS and works in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery in Istanbul.

This content is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Every person is different; suitability and the process can only be determined by a personal examination and consultation.

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Op. Dr. Yasemin Aydınlı

Op. Dr. Yasemin Aydınlı

Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon

Offers personalized aesthetic solutions with a priority on naturalness and balance.

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