Effects of Ultracavitation and Radiofrequency on Abdominal Adiposity

J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022 Jan;15(1):E66-E71.

Abstract

Background: The mechanism of fat reduction from radiofrequency occurs via the thermal stimulation of adipocyte metabolism, causing a lipase-mediated triglyceride enzyme degradation, apoptosis, and adipocyte rupture. Ultracavitation promotes fat reduction using adipose cell destruction through mechanical stimulus. The literature on the combination of these two physical agents, named ultrafrequency, is still scarce and requires consistent analysis of the effects of this therapy combination.

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of radiofrequency associated with ultracavitation in the treatment of abdominal subcutaneous tissue of women.

Methods: This was a prospective, randomized clinical trial in which 45 participants were divided into three distinct groups: the control group (no treatment); ultracavitation group; and ultracavitation and radiofrequency (UCV+RF) group, each with 15 volunteers. The following variables were evaluated: weight, perimetry, plicometry, ultrasonography, treatment reactions, and patient satisfaction.

Results: The participants in the UCV+RF group presented a more significant decrease in adipose tissue, which was verified through all the evaluation methods.

Conclusion: Based on our results, the simultaneous application of ultracavitation and radiofrequency generated a reduction in localized adiposity superior to the isolated use of ultracavitation.

Keywords: Fat; abdomen; adiposity; radiofrequency; subcutaneous tissue; ultracavitation; ultrafrequency.