Reductions in Thigh and Infraumbilical Circumference Following Treatment With a Novel Device Combining Ultrasound, Suction, and Massage
February 2008 | Volume 7 | Issue 2 | Original Article | 113 | Copyright © February 2008
K. Wade Foster MD PhD, David J. Kouba MD PhD, Jennifer Hayes, Valerie Freeman PA, Ronald L. Moy MD
Abstract
Liposuction is the gold standard of body contouring procedures. Many patients, however, will not tolerate the invasiveness
and subsequent recovery time associated with this procedure, despite the likelihood of superior results. Consequently,
patients opt for minimally invasive forms of body contouring that require several treatments, have fewer associated side
effects, and afford more modest improvements. The MedSculptâ„¢ device is one such modality that combines computerized
massage, vacuum suction, and ultrasound with a continuous sinusoidal pulse delivered at a frequency of 3 Hz. The efficacy
of this device was assessed in the reduction of thigh and abdominal circumferences. Five patients were included in this pilot
study. A total of 12 treatments were performed on a semiweekly basis to 2 abdomens and 3 pairs of thighs. Photographs
and circumferential measurements of each area were obtained prior to, and at the conclusion of, the treatment course. The
treatments were well tolerated and without side effects. The mean reduction in thigh circumference was 2.25 cm or 4%,
with a 5 cm reduction in 1 subject. Although limited improvement was seen in supraumbilical circumference, the mean
reduction in infraumbilical circumference was 6.5 cm or 7.3%, with a 10 cm reduction in 1 subject. Mild improvement in
skin tone, texture, and the appearance of cellulite was observed in all study participants. The results observed after 12 treatments were similar to or better tan those seen with other minimally invasive, body contouring devices.