Ultrasound Cavitation: What Is It, How Does It Work, and Is It Effective?
Have you ever wanted to try liposuction but couldn’t quite get up the nerve for procedure? Well, we’ve got good news. There’s a new fat busting system in town and you won’t need to endure a single incision to get it! Ultrasonic cavitation, also known as Cavi-Lipo, is non-invasive, painless, and requires no anesthesia and zero recovery time. But how does it work, you ask? Come on in and join us as we explore this exciting new body shaping innovation!
How does ultrasound cavitation work?
Ultrasound cavitation involves ultrasound energy waves being applied to the targeted fat removal area, which causes the fat cell walls to break down. Once broken down, the fat that was inside the walls is liquefied and eliminated from the body via the lymphatic system, liver, and other natural processes. Aside from regular fat, ultrasound cavitation is also used to eliminate cellulite.
Is ultrasound cavitation effective?
It appears to be effective for about 90% of our clients. However, it’s best considered a method for reducing fat, or inches, in certain areas rather than a weight loss strategy. To clarify, a 2010 peer-reviewed study revealed that patients who were measured after their ultrasound cavitation therapy session were found to have “a reduced fat thickness and circumference,” but they “did not actually lose any weight (as in weight loss) or experience any changes in levels of cholesterol, triglycerides or liver markers.” (Jasminka & Victor, 2010).
Further evidence suggests ultrasound cavitation has been shown to be a “promising and safe technology for localized reduction of fat” according to a 2013 study. (Bani, Quattrini, Freschi & Lo Russo, 2013). Additionally, a 2015 study found that the “use of ultrasound focused cavitational reduced the layer of fat in the abdominal region.” (Viana da Rosa, 2015). And finally, the Aesthetic Surgery Journal states that while “the underlying mechanism of action still remains under debate, there is evidence in the literature to show that this device (the ultrasound cavitation device) works.” (Nessab, 2015).
It works best for generally healthy clients within 20 lbs of their ideal weight
Some also advise that the treatment is most effective for people who generally maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle and are within approximately 20 pounds of their ideal weight. According to Healthemy, “If you are obese, or drastically overweight, ultrasound cavitation will not be effective when it comes to fat removal, because...it does not remove significant amounts of fat.” The treatment is best used on folks who are in average shape but have that stubborn area of fat that just won’t budge, rather than large amounts of all over excess body fat. It’s also important to be realistic in expectations. Registered Dietician Nutritionist Erin Peisach explains, “You can melt and destroy tons of fat cells, but if your diet includes more calories than the body needs, extra fat will be stored in the remaining cells.”
How often should you do ultrasound cavitation?
According to Nancy Melody of Caviliposonics, a non-surgical body shaping clinic in Enfield, CT, there’s a strategy to planning out your sessions. Board certified in four ultrasound specialties, Ms. Melody graduated from Philadelphia’s Episcopal Hospital’s Ultrasound training program and has accumulated 40+ years of experience using ultrasound on the human body. Her recommendation? Three to six sessions per area treated, with sessions lasting 30 - 40 minute each. You should be able to see the difference after four to six sessions. Melody also suggests sessions be at least three days apart so the body has time to “flush everything out” in between. During the time following each session (ideally about three days), Melody urges drinking lots of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, skipping the heavy carbs, and exercising.
Is ultrasound cavitation safe? What are the risks?
Those who regularly administer ultrasound cavitation treatments normally have pre- and post- treatment instructions for patients, including:
Maintaining average activity levels and a healthy diet overall
Walking and doing light exercise following treatment to move the fat cells through the lymphatic system (Some recommend doing a lymphatic drainage session if available following each treatment)
Avoiding tanning before the treatment
Avoiding showering directly following treatment
Drinking plenty of water both before and after treatment (at least 1.5 liters afterward especially)
It is also recommended that you avoid ultrasound cavitation treatments if you are:
Pregnant
Nursing a baby
Under age 18
If you have a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator
If you have liver or kidney diseases, i.e. stones, transplants, etc.
If you have epilepsy
If you have cancerIf you have prosthetic metal zones
If you have hearing disorders
In some cases, it may be acceptable for patients to visit their physicians and get a doctor’s note indicating they are healthy enough to undergo the ultrasound cavitation treatment.
Some have further concerns
Additionally, patients should be cautious when choosing a location for their ultrasound cavitation treatment. You’ll want to be sure technicians are properly trained to work with each individual’s adiposity and the anatomical location being targeted on the body. If your treatment is being conducted in a beauty salon or spa, be especially sure to discuss the matter prior to beginning the session.
Note: Some warn that a risk of prolonged treatment or treatment conducted under the wrong ultrasound frequency can result in “damage to the abdominal muscle wall or irritation of internal organs. In rare cases clients can also contract hepatitis or cirrhosis of the liver.”
Are you ready to try ultrasound cavitation?
If you think you’re ready and feel you might be a good candidate for the treatment, give us a call or stop in anytime we’re open. Our friendly, informed staff can answer all your questions and make an appointment for you to try ultrasound cavitation!
We hope to see you soon at:
Cryo Body Works
512-522-0221
3501 Hyridge drive
Austin TX 78759
OPEN M-F 7AM-8PM
SAT 10-5
SUN 12-4
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