So, What Exactly Is Ultrasonic Cavitation Treatment?
Ultrasonic cavitation, also known as ultrasonic lipolysis, is a body contouring treatment (similar to cool sculpting) used to remove stubborn fat deposits under the skin.
This treatment is a safe, non-invasive alternative to surgery, like liposuction. The procedure uses ultrasonic radio waves to break up fat cells, which are then absorbed by the lymphatic system in your body.
Ultrasonic cavitation differs from other similar treatments—such as ultrasound liposuction— in that it doesn’t require any incisions. This ultimately makes recovery is easier, but also means that results might not be as noticeable.
The ideal candidate for ultrasonic cavitation:
Is healthy overall
Does not smoke
Is realistic in their expectations of the procedure
Is only about 15 lbs away from their goal weight
Understands that the treatment targets small pockets of fat to help contour the body and is not using the procedure to lose a lot of weight.
Fortunately for those looking to sculpt their body closer to their ideal, there’s promising evidence that suggests that this is an effective treatment for body contouring.
So, How Does Ultrasonic Cavitation Work, Exactly?
Ultrasonic cavitation uses ultrasound technology to break up fat cells.
Ultrasound waves are directed deep into the layers of the skin, which causes a disruptive vibration. Fat cells are then broken apart from each other— dislodged from the body’s dermal layers.
After a few days, the fat cells are then absorbed by the lymphatic system and release as waste from the body.
So, What Happens During an Ultrasonic Cavitation Session?
The procedure for ultrasonic cavitation is simple and straightforward.
On the day of your appointment, the doctor or nurse practitioner may ask you to undress in private and don a paper gown, but this is dependent on what area of the body that’s being treated.
Then, whoever is doing the procedure will likely sterilize the designated area of your treatment with alcohol. After that—by using an ultrasound device— they’ll slowly go over the fatty area that’s being targeted.
It’s possible that you’ll feel a warm sensation during the process and hear a buzzing from the ultrasound machine. Ultrasonic cavitation sessions usually take anywhere between 40 minutes to an hour long.
What Areas Are Targeted for Ultrasonic Cavitation?
Some studies suggest that this procedure is most effective at the fat reduction in “fibrotic” areas of your body, which include the back and chest area.
Other areas that ultrasonic cavitation is used on include:
Stomach
Hips
Face
Neck
Upper arms
Thigh areas