What Is VelaShape?
VelaShape is the first FDA-approved, non-invasive cellulite treatment. Treatment is approved for the neck and arms; however, it is most often used on the abdomen, buttocks, stomach, and thighs. For a minority of patients, it can also reduce excess fat and improve sagging under the chin.Because it is non-invasive, it poses few risks and has little downtime. As an outpatient treatment, it is becoming increasingly popular because it is convenient, quick, and effective.
How Does It Work?
It uses a combination of four different modalities to shrink fat cells: infrared light, bipolar radiofrequency (RF) energy, massage, and gentle suction. These technologies work together to enhance each other’s properties and effects.The unique combination of cell lysis, tissue manipulation, and creation of microscopic tears in the fibrous bands that create dimples has a synergistic effect, removing what we don’t want (fat) and stimulating what we do want (collagen and elastin).
Infrared Light
Infrared light creates microscopic perforations in the membrane of the fat cell wall, allowing them to release their contents to be eliminated by the body.Bipolar Radiofrequency Energy
Bipolar RF heats the tissue, producing a vaporizing effect on the contents of the fat cell. This process, in turn, causes the cells to release fatty acids, glycerol, and water into the body. The expulsion of some of the cell contents effectively shrinks the fat cell. In addition, heat stimulates the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, all of which help tighten loose skin around the now smaller cell.Massage
Massage encourages lymphatic drainage, part of the necessary process of expulsion of harmful fat cell byproducts and toxins. The mechanical manipulation of tissue both increases circulation and further contributes to the elongation of fibrous material by creating microscopic tears that make the tissue more malleable.Suction
Vacuum suction works alongside massage to help relax and further stretch the stiff fibrous bands under the skin that cause the dimpling and orange peel texture we love to hate.How Is It Different From Other Cellulite Treatments?
As is clear from the above, this novel treatment employs a 4-prong approach to target cellulite, and that alone makes it different. It is also very commonly paired with other procedures, including liposuction, microneedling, and tummy tuck.When used in combination with RF microneedling, it helps to smooth and tighten the skin faster and more effectively. Post-liposuction and tummy tuck, it is used to tighten the skin and speed the recovery process. However, VelaShape stands out most because it is not only proven, but FDA-approved, to be effective in temporarily reducing the actual circumference of thighs, hips, and abdomen.
What Can I Expect During Treatment?
Treatment takes anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours, depending on individual variables. Patients often describe the experience as enjoyable, like a warm, deep tissue massage. Some report losing both inches and pounds almost immediately, but they might just feel incredible! It is virtually painless, as there are no needles, incisions, or anesthesia needed.How Soon Will I See Results?
Results are generally seen in as little as four weeks. Additionally, patients may continue to see improvements due to the combination of massage rollers and vacuum suction that stimulates collagen and elastin over time.Within three months, patients reported an average 0.6-inch reduction in the circumference of the abdomen, a 0.2-inch reduction in the circumference of the buttocks, and 0.5-inch reduction in the circumference of the thighs.
How Effective Is It?
The statistics are impressive. The rate of cellulite reduction in one group was reported at over 60%. A similar clinical study showed that 85% of patients saw their thighs shrink up to three inches. The average patient found from half an inch to three inches of circumferential reduction in treated areas after a series of four treatments.How Long Does It Last?
Although results can be significant, they are not permanent. The improved appearance of cellulite and reduction of the circumference of the abdomen and thighs can be expected to last from six to 12 months depending on individual variables.Since VelaShape shrinks but does not destroy fat cells, a balanced diet is the only way to ensure lasting results. As results will vary based on patient lifestyle, diet, and other variables, no result can be guaranteed. Because of the convenience and ease of treatment, many patients elect to repeat it after six months to a year to maintain results.
Who Is It for?
As with most treatments, one size does not fit all. Some women are better candidates for certain treatments than others. For women with a BMI of less than 30 and with cellulite that appears when standing, but not when lying down, VelaShape is highly effective.If you want a reduction in skin laxity, body volume, and an overall improvement in skin structure and texture with no real risks and no downtime, this treatment may be for you!