Skin ExpertsSkin TreatmentsNon-invasive Body Contouring Treatments

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Uses for Non-invasive Body Contouring Treatments

Dr. Waldorf Discusses Recontouring with Soft-Tissue Fillers

Non-invasive Body Contouring Treatments

What are non-invasive body contouring treatments?

There are several non-invasive options for excess fat removal, including:

  • Low level laser therapy: Low level laser therapy emits cold laser energy into body tissues that are absorbed by fat cells, which are broken down and absorbed into the body. The procedure has been approved by the FDA.
  • Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses high-intensity, focused sound waves to disrupt fat calls, causing them to dissolve gradually over time. Ultrasound therapy for excess fat removal has been approved by the FDA.
  • Radiofrequency: Radiofrequency delivers controlled energy to excess fat areas, creating heat deep within fat cells and subsequently destroying them. Radiofrequency therapy for excess fat removal has not yet been approved by the FDA but is regularly used for body contouring in dermatology.

Are non-invasive treatments painful?

The treatments are well tolerated by most patients. On occasion, a burning sensation may be felt

When are non-invasive treatments appropriate?

Non-invasive treatments are appropriate for excess fat removal and body contouring with proper patient expectations.

Possible Risks

  • Redness in treated area lasting no more than a few hours.
  • Localized bruising that usually clears within a few hours.

Who is not a good candidate for the treatment?

Patients with unrealistic expectations regarding the outcome of the procedure are not good candidates for non-invasive treatments. Likewise, people who regard non-invasive removal of excess fat as a substitute for proper diet and exercise also are not good candidates. Patients with pacemakers, defibrillators or aneurysms are not candidates for radiofrequency treatment.

What to expect after the procedure

  • Non-invasive procedures to remove excess fat involve minimal recovery time; patients can resume their normal activities the same day.
  • Non-invasive therapies typically require multiple treatment sessions.
  • Patients will observe a visible decrease in fat bulges in two to four months.

What to exepct before the procedure

Before the procedure, an ASDS member dermatologist will review the patient’s medical history. This is the time for the doctor and patient to discuss expectations, potential risks and outcomes of the procedure. Patients should understand that there are not yet any long-term studies on these procedures and that there is no guarantee regarding their effectiveness.