Over the last year, the medical aesthetics market has continued to see significant growth. The most recent survey by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports that the number of non-surgical medical procedures continues to rise, gaining 186% in the last year, with interest in cellulite and fat reduction treatments growing in turn, proving not to be just another fad. Injections, cryolipolysis, and ultrasound are trending in the fat reduction field. With this bend in consumer interest toward non-invasive options, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the top trends and technology in body shaping procedures. Get started with our summary of new and trending body contouring treatments, alongside one tried-and-true non-invasive option that continues to be a favorite among prospective patients.
Fat Reduction Injections
Injections for fat reduction, or injection lipolysis, utilize deoxycholic acid to disrupt and atrophy fat cells. While the procedure is approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for use under the chin (submental fullness or “double chin”), it continues to be a controversial choice for some. Deoxycholic acid naturally occurs in the body and contributes to the breakdown of fat cells for proper digestion. However, in its injectable form, deoxycholic acid is much more potent, breaking down fat cells on contact for selective shaping and smoothing of unwanted fat pockets. Injection lipolysis appointments are fairly quick and optimal efficacy may be achieved in two to four monthly treatments. Some doctors in the past have expressed concerns over the risk of infection and disfigurement associated with the procedure, with some countries even curtailing the cosmetic use of certain injection lipolysis products.
Cryolipolysis
Cryolipolysis delivers extreme cold deep below skin’s surface to break down fat cells and smoothen fat pockets. Nerve, skin, and muscle tissue remain unharmed during the process because they have a lower freezing point. The FDA has approved cryolipolysis for use on the abdomen, hips, thighs, back, upper arms, buttocks, and on submental fullness. Cryolipolysis is best suited to those wishing to reduce the volume of fat pockets but needing little body shaping. Up to 25% fat reduction per treatment session may be expected, according to recent studies, with each session lasting up to one hour. The number of sessions required per treatment plan may vary by patient, but most patients appear to be satisfied with their results following two treatments.
Ultrasound
Via focused ultrasound energy (sonic waves) transmitted through the skin’s surface to targeted fat deposits, ultrasound fat reduction treatments utilize rapid pressure to damage the walls of fat cells. Fat is freed as triglycerides and subsequently metabolized by the liver and eliminated from the body, leading to a gradual decline in the size of the targeted fat pockets. Ultrasound treatments have been approved for use on the thighs or flanks, and the abdomen. Results are seen approximately three months after the last treatment session, with up to three treatments suggested for optimal results.
Air Sculpting
A new fat reduction treatment gaining popularity among celebrities and Hollywood elite this year, minimally invasive air sculpting fat reduction treatments physically remove excess fat from the body via a specially designed tool that is inserted beneath the skin’s surface. The patient remains awake throughout the procedure and only one treatment is required for optimal results if conducted properly. The procedure is likened to liposuction but does not damage the fat cells, which makes what is removed usable in potential fat transfer treatments to other areas, like the breasts, to lift and fill.
Radio Frequency Body Shaping
While not a new development in the medical aesthetics and body shaping fields, radio frequency (RF) energy has been utilized for over 70 years and continues to be a top trending treatment modality. Converting RF energy into heat deep below the skin’s surface, lipolysis is induced in targeted fat cells while preserving the health of surrounding cells for a smoother, more shapely silhouette.
Advances in Multi-Polar RF body shaping treatments, which are highly regarded as the safest option, use a complex algorithm to homogeneously deliver energy in the targeted treatment area. With technology that’s non-invasive and safe for all skin types, RF body shaping treatments may be utilized for cellulite, wrinkle, and circumferential reduction purposes alongside the elimination of focal fat deposits. By ensuring your RF-based medical aesthetics machine is up-to-date and upgraded as new advances become available, your clinic may tap into the power of the latest medical aesthetics advances and the trusted power of RF energy in establishing optimal results.
If you’re looking to add a cutting-edge RF-based body contouring treatment device to your range of medical aesthetics machines, contact a Venus Concept expert today to learn about our lineup of advanced and trusted medical devices.
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