Cellulite is a condition that concerns millions, mostly women, and is characterized by a dimpling or lumpiness in the skin, mostly affecting the thighs, buttocks, and hips. Though not harmful, many seek treatments for the appearance of cellulite. Among many solutions existing, AWT stands out as an effective, non-invasive method that has gained popularity in clinics worldwide.
Acoustic Wave Therapy was originally developed for medical applications associated with kidney stones and orthopedic disorders. Today, it is adapted into aesthetics for the treatment of cellulite. The blog post will look at what AWT is, its technology, advantages in cellulite reduction, and the reasons why it is popular among clinics.
What is Acoustic Wave Therapy?
AWT uses acoustic waves, meaning shockwaves, for the biological stimulation of processes in the living organism. In the case of therapy, the sound waves coupled to the skin are directed toward skin and deeper tissue layers, providing mechanical pressure. This mechanical pressure encourages blood flow and lymphatic drainage, making collagen production proliferate, thus acting on the critical constituents in cellulite management.
The skin has a dimpling due to undermining fat deposits that push against the connective tissue beneath the skin. It may be developed with influences such as genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle. AWT helps in breaking down the fibrous bands of tissue causing cellulite, thus enhancing skin elasticity and, therefore, is one of the most effective treatments.
How Does Acoustic Wave Therapy Work for Cellulite?
Acoustic Wave Therapy sends high-energy or radial sound waves deep into the skin. These sound waves initiate biological reactions that can really make a difference in cellulite treatment. Here’s how:
Improved Blood Circulation: Increased blood circulation around the area of treatment is one of the main advantages of AWT treatment. Poor blood circulation is considered a great factor in cellulite, as it may lead to the collection of fat deposits and fluid retention within an individual’s body. By improving the circulation, AWT breaks down some of these fat deposits and thereby reduces the appearance of cellulite.
Lymphatic Drainage Stimulation: The treatment works on the stimulation of lymphatic drainage, which is responsible for the detoxification within the system, that includes waste products elimination from the body. This, in turn, accelerates the removal of fat cells and hence aids in smoothening and toning the skin.
Collagen Production: AWT also promotes the production of collagen, which is of great use in skincare regarding firmness and elasticity. Collagen plays a very important role in improving the tensile strength of the skin, whereby the visible appearance of cellulite decreases with time.
During the development of cellulite, the fat cells balloon out, pushing up against the skin while the fibrous bands of tissue pull down on the skin from beneath. The AWT works to break down these bands so that the skin can smooth out and look a lot better.
Clinical Evidence to Support Acoustic Wave Therapy for Cellulite
Clinical research has shown in a few studies that Acoustic Wave Therapy reduces cellulite and firms up skin tone. One of the major publications on PubMed included 30 women who had moderate to severe cellulite. Participants were given 12 sessions of AWT over a period of six weeks to the thighs and gluteal area.
The results were astonishing:
- Cellulite Severity Decreased: The cellulite had decreased in severity by a big margin as the percentage of subjects having severe cellulite came down from 60% to 38%.
- Reduction in Circumference: Hip circumference also saw a reduction, reflecting that AWT helps in body contouring too.
- Improved Skin Elasticity: Skin elasticity and firmness increased fairly in the subjects.
- Satisfaction Rate: >90% of subjects were satisfied with the treatment, which also included willingness to repeat the treatment.
This study determined that AWT is a safe and effective modality in reducing cellulite and improving body contours and overall skin quality. No severe adverse effects were reported, indicating the safety of the procedure.
Advantages of Acoustic Wave Therapy in the Clinic
AWT has some advantages, which make this treatment in demand for clinics and patients in the reduction of cellulite.
Non-Invasive: Probably the most critical benefit of AWT treatments is the fact that they are non-invasive. Unlike liposuction or any other surgical procedure, AWT does not require anesthesia, incisions, or downtime. Immediately after the treatment, patients can easily go about doing their daily activities; hence, it is very convenient for people with tight schedules.
Long-Lasting Results: Although results are usually improved with the series of treatments, remarkable effects of AWT can last anywhere between several months into a year, varying on the individual’s lifestyle and skin type. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to sustain the results over time.
Diverse Application: Acoustic Wave Therapy is not just used in cellulite treatments but is also extended for other aesthetic applications, including skin tightening, stretch marks, and body contouring. This makes it diverse and thus is an option for clinics seeking comprehensive aesthetic solutions.
Safe and Painless: Most of the time, AWT is well-tolerated, and the patients say it feels like a light tapping or some kind of vibration. Without any need for pain relief preparations, without recovery time, and with minimal complications, this procedure may be performed by professionals.
Suitable for All Skin Types: Unlike some treatments, which may only be accessible for skin of a particular type or tone, AWT is safe for all skin types, making it relevant for a wide range of patient types in cellulite reduction.
What to Expect During an Acoustic Wave Therapy Session
Most common AWT sessions last anywhere from 30-60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Most patients require a series of treatments, which is usually two sessions per week for six to eight weeks, for optimal results.
During treatment, a handheld device is applied to the area of concern and emits shockwaves. In general, AWT can cause a slight tingling or vibrating sensation but is usually well-tolerated without major complaints. At the end of the session, patients may immediately return to daily activities with no reported downtime.
Combination of AWT with Other Aesthetic Treatments
Acoustic Wave Therapy can be combined with other aesthetic treatments that work in harmony to bring out the best possible results. For example, this can be combined with mesotherapy or Botox treatments to improve skin quality and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. However, if this is to be utilized in harmony with Botox injections, one would have to wait four weeks afterward before AWT could begin.
Combination with AWT and an appropriate lifestyle that includes regular exercises and proper nutrition can offer the utmost results of treatment and long-lasting effects.
Selection of the Proper Device for Acoustic Wave Treatment
The clinics that will offer the treatment should invest in high-quality devices that will guarantee the optimal outcome of the patients. Two devices suggested for AWT treatments with efficiency are the Masterpuls One and Storz D-Actor 100.
The Masterpuls One is fine-tuned for facial treatments; hence, it provides effective and very precise wrinkle reduction and increases the skin’s firmness. The Storz D-Actor 100 is more universal than the other and can be used both for face and body treatment. It has shown great efficiency in cellulite reduction and body contouring of big areas like thighs and abdomen.
These devices are designed by experts in shockwave technology to ensure that it provides reliable performance and optimal results for the patients.
Final Thoughts on Acoustic Wave Therapy
Acoustic Wave Therapy has advanced cellulite treatments offered in the clinic, offering a non-invasive yet safe and effective solution. AWT stimulates an improvement in blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, and production of collagen at the very causes of the problem to produce much smoother, firmer skin. Versatility, long-lasting results, and high patient satisfaction make it ideal for the clinic seeking to offer the most advanced aesthetic solutions.
If you are considering adding Acoustic Wave Therapy into your clinic, or if you would like to know more benefits of this cutting-edge technology, then check it out here and here.