What is Cavitation?
Cavitation is a novel advanced aesthetic technology technique employed as an effective non-invasive aesthetic treatment to reduce localized fat and firm the skin. It is based on the application of low-frequency ultrasound that generates vacuum bubbles within the adipose tissue. These microscopic bubbles almost instantly implode, causing a powerful shockwave that destroys fat cells without damaging the skin or other structures.
How does the treatment work?
During the session, the emission head of the device is covered with a special gel and moved over the area to be treated, emitting low-frequency ultrasound. These ultrasounds create millions of microscopic bubbles within the fat cells which, upon implosion, generate vacuum waves that selectively break down these cells without affecting the surrounding tissue.
Where can cavitation be applied?
It is especially indicated for reducing localized fat in areas such as:
- Abdomen
- Flanks (love handles)
- Thighs
- Arms
- Saddlebags
- Double chin
In general, it can be used to treat areas with stubborn fat accumulations resistant to diets and exercise, as long as the skin has good elastic tone.
What are the advantages of cavitation?
- Non-invasive treatment: No surgery, injections or chemical substances required.
- Focused on specific areas: Treats only the localized fat areas you want to reduce.
- No significant side effects: It is a safe and well-tolerated technique.
- No scars or bruises.
- No recovery period required: Normal activity can be resumed immediately.
- Visible results: The skin becomes smoother and firmer in addition to reducing volume and contours.
- Lasting reduction effect: The eliminated fat does not return if a healthy lifestyle is maintained.
How many sessions are needed?
Typically, between 8 and 15 sessions spaced 1 or 2 weeks apart are recommended to obtain optimal results. The exact number will depend on the area to be treated, the amount of localized fat, and each patient’s goals.
Is it effective for weight loss?
No, cavitation is not a treatment for overall weight loss. It is designed to reduce and firm specific areas of localized fat accumulation, but it does not replace a balanced diet and regular exercise for overall weight loss.
How should the patient prepare?
Before the treatment, it is recommended to:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid taking anticoagulants or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Do not apply creams or lotions to the area to be treated.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment areas.
What does it feel like during the cavitation treatment?
The sensation is similar to a mild massage or vibration in the treated area. Some people may feel occasional slight pinpricks, but in general, the procedure is not painful thanks to the coupling gel applied.
Does cavitation have side effects?
The side effects are mild and temporary:
- Slight redness in the treated area
- Tingling or local heat sensation
- Possible appearance of minor bruises
- Transient fatigue or muscle soreness
All these symptoms disappear on their own within a few hours or days.
Can you exercise after the treatment?
Yes, moderate physical activity is recommended to facilitate the elimination of residues from the destroyed fat cells. However, strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first 48 hours.
When are the results of cavitation visible?
Some patients notice a slight improvement in body contour after the first or second session. However, optimal results are usually observed between 4 and 6 weeks after the last treatment, once the body has completely eliminated the cellular debris.
How long does the effect of cavitation last?
The results can last for years if a stable weight is maintained through healthy lifestyle habits. The destroyed fat cells do not regenerate, however, new cells may partially refill the area if significant weight is gained subsequently.
Is cavitation better than liposuction?
Both techniques have their advantages. Cavitation is a less invasive, more economical option and does not leave scars. But liposuction allows for the reduction of larger volumes of fat more rapidly.
In general, cavitation is preferable for minor touch-ups, while liposuction may be better for more prominent fat accumulations, always assessing each case individually.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Yes, cavitation complements very well with other aesthetic body treatments such as radiofrequency, focused ultrasound, pressotherapy, muscle electrostimulation or reducing massages, enhancing and prolonging the results.
In which cases is it contraindicated?
Although cavitation is safe in most cases, there are certain contraindications:
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices
- Gallstones or kidney stones
- Active autoimmune diseases
- Cancer or recent chemotherapy
- Severe hemorrhagic or cardiovascular diseases
- Recent use of retinoids or tranexamic acid
It is always recommended to consult a professional for any doubts or particular conditions.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the real results of cavitation?
The volume reduction and skin tightening achieved with cavitation can vary for each individual. On average, a reduction of between 2 and 6 cm in circumference can be expected in the treated area after completing all sessions.
Is cavitation painful?
No, cavitation is not a painful treatment thanks to the gel applied to the skin. Most patients only perceive a mild vibratory or massage sensation during the session.
Does cavitation leave scars?
No, as it is a completely external procedure, cavitation does not leave any scars on the skin.
What is the difference between cavitation and radiofrequency?
Cavitation uses ultrasound to destroy fat cells, while radiofrequency uses electromagnetic waves to heat and tighten the skin from within, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. Both techniques complement each other perfectly in firming body treatments.
Is cavitation better than cryolipolysis?
Both cavitation and cryolipolysis are effective for reducing localized fat, but they differ in their mechanism of action. Cryolipolysis freezes fat cells while cavitation destroys them through vacuum waves. The choice will depend on the preferences and specific characteristics of each patient.
Does cavitation help with cellulite?
It has no effect on cellulite, as it acts only on fat cells and does not treat the adhesions and fluid retention that cause the dimpled appearance of cellulite skin. For this, treatments such as pressotherapy or mesotherapy are more recommended.
Can you exercise before cavitation?
It is recommended to avoid intense exercise or sauna at least 2 hours before the cavitation treatment, to prevent muscle activation and sweating from interfering with the procedure.
Is cavitation permanent?
If a stable weight is maintained after treatment, the results of cavitation are permanent as the destroyed fat cells do not regenerate. However, new accumulations may occur if significant weight is gained subsequently.
Does cavitation hurt the next day?
It usually does not cause significant discomfort. Some people may experience mild soreness or temporary sensitivity in the treated area, similar to after exercise, but these symptoms disappear quickly.
Can you take anti-inflammatory drugs after cavitation?
It is preferable to avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs within 48 hours after the cavitation treatment, as they may interfere with the proper elimination of residues from the destroyed fat cells.
Does cavitation work for slimming the face?
Yes, it is an effective and safe treatment to reduce localized fat in the double chin, cheeks and facial contour, as long as the skin has good tone. It is often combined with thread lifts or fillers to enhance the results.
How much does a cavitation session cost?
The price may vary depending on the area to be treated and the clinic, but typically ranges from 60 to 150 euros per session at professional centers. Multiple session packages usually have discounts.
Does cavitation work on saggy skin or severe cellulite?
It is not a recommended treatment for very saggy skin or severe cellulite. In these cases, other procedures such as abdominoplasties or lymphatic drainages would have better results.
How long does a cavitation session last?
Depending on the areas to be treated, a complete cavitation session can last between 30 minutes and 1 hour approximately.
Can you sunbathe after cavitation?
There is no problem with moderate sun exposure after a cavitation session. However, it is advisable to avoid prolonged exposure for the first 48 hours to prevent increasing the slight redness that the treatment may cause.
Does it work on men?
Yes, it is equally effective in men as in women for reducing and firming areas with stubborn fat accumulations such as abdomen, flanks, chest or double chin.
Does cavitation work for reducing arms?
Yes, cavitation is very effective for firming the arm area and reducing fat accumulations that form the dreaded “bat wings”. It is often complemented with radiofrequency.
Is it necessary to wear a compression garment after?
It is not strictly necessary, but wearing a compression garment or body shaper after cavitation helps drain cellular waste and improve the final results.
Does cavitation burn fat or just eliminate it?
It does not “burn” fat in a metabolic way, but rather selectively destroys fat cells by inducing them into programmed cell death or apoptosis. Subsequently, the lipids and debris are eliminated by the lymphatic system.
Does cavitation affect the thyroid or fertility?
No, it does not emit ionizing radiation or involve the ingestion of chemical substances, so it does not affect the thyroid gland or male or female fertility.
Can cavitation be done on legs?
Yes, cavitation is an excellent treatment for reducing and firming localized fat on thighs, knees and calves. It has very good results on the dreaded “saddlebags” that often accumulate on the inner thighs.
How many sessions are needed to see results?
Some patients notice slight changes after 2 or 3 sessions, but optimal results are usually seen between 4 and 6 weeks after the last treatment, when the body has completely eliminated the residues of the destroyed fat cells.
Does cavitation replace surgery?
No, it does not replace surgical procedures such as abdominoplasties or body lifts. Rather, it is a less invasive complement or alternative for minor body contouring in patients with good muscle tone and little sagging.
Can cavitation be done after liposuction?
Yes, it can be used after liposuction once at least 3 months have passed since the surgical procedure. It helps to firm and define the contours in areas with small residual fat deposits.
Is cavitation effective for obesity?
No, it is not indicated for cases of generalized obesity or significant excess weight. It is a localized treatment for small areas of stubborn fat, never a substitute for diets and exercise for weight loss.
Are there any restrictions after cavitation?
There are no major restrictions, normal activity
There are no major restrictions, normal activity can be resumed after the session. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids, avoid saunas or hot baths, and engage in moderate exercise to facilitate the elimination of waste. Anti-inflammatory drugs should not be taken and excessive sun exposure should be avoided for the first 48 hours.
