THE USE OF A COMBINATION MECHANICAL MANIPULATION, INFRARED LIGHT AND RADIOFREQUENCY DEVICE FOR THE REDUCTION OF CELLULITE AND THIGH DIAMETER.

 
Gerald Boey, M.D., Vancouver, B.C.
Purpose:

Cellulite is a very prevalent condition occurring in over 80% of women over the age of 18. Various treatment options, including topical preparations, massage-based mechanical treatments, and surgery have proved disappointing. This IRB approved study was undertaken to determine if bipolar radiofrequency combined with infrared light and mechanical suction (Velasmooth, Syneron) could improve cellulite and reduce thigh circumference.

About the Procedure:

Figure 1-1 Figure 1-2 Figure 1-3 Figure 1-4

25 (or more) women between the ages of 19 and 58, with skin phenotypes II-VI, were treated twice per week on one leg only (randomized) for a total of 12 treatments. Weight and thigh circumference were recorded before and one month after the last treatment by a blinded investigator. A novel device was employed for thigh size measurements to help objectify the process.
Results:

This study is ongoing and is to be completed in December of 2006. Those who have concluded the study show and average of 1.6 cm reduction of thigh size diameter persisting till at least one month following treatments. Final improvement scales for cellulite is to be tabulated. Adverse effects include mild bruising and slight discomfort with treatment. No serious side effects were noted.

Figure 2-1
Pre Treatment
Figure 2-2
Post Treatment

Conclusion:

The Velasmooth device seems to be useful for thigh size reduction persisting till at least one month following a series of 12 biweekly treatments. Further studies are needed to evaluate techniques to decrease the amount of treatments required for improvement. The new device to measure thigh diameter was very helpful in eliminating measurement discrepancies.