The authors present a retrospective literature review of non-surgical body contouring technologies, including radiofrequency, low-level laser therapy, cryolipolysis, as well as thermal and non-thermal ultrasound. A useful, referenced statistical table is provided for comparison of abdominal circumference reduction among different modalities. The authors stress that comparison of modalities is challenging due to discrepancies in the outcomes reported in the literature along with varying treatment protocols. Additionally, comparative studies are quickly superseded by manufacturers continually refining their technologies and treatment protocols in an attempt to improve efficacy and reduce the incidence of adverse events. An insightful overview is provided on the history of radiofrequency, reinforcing that in spite of its long development history, there is relatively little robust data describing the efficacy of radiofrequency for body contouring. The author provides referenced statistics for the reduction of adverse events associated with radiofrequency. Low-level laser therapy, cryolipolisis, thermal and non-thermal ultrasound are critically analysed, with the key message reinforcing that these modalities can be compared using a variety of metrics, both objective and subjective, with treatments tailored to the individual’s body shape rather than the device’s manufacturer settings. The authors acknowledge the limitations of the literature review, owing to the small number of available studies and variations in study design and measurement of end result as well as the subjective and multifactorial components of patient satisfaction. – AB
Hot or cold?
Reviewed by Anna Baker
Hot and cold: a comparison of modalities for non-invasive body contouring.
