Effects of microwave technology on the subcutaneous abdominal fat and anthropometric indices of overweight adults: A clinical trial

Microwaves Versus Combined Microwaves and Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser in the Treatment of Postpartum Abdominal Laxity Among Filipino Patients in a Tertiary Hospital: A Randomized, Prospective, Assessor-Blinded, Simultaneous Split-Abdomen Trial

BACKGROUND

Postpartum abdominal laxity is a growing concern for women. Noninvasive options like microwave technology and fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser show promise, but their combined efficacy and safety require further investigation.

AIM

To compare the efficacy and safety of microwaves versus combined microwaves and fractional CO2 laser in the treatment of postpartum abdominal laxity among Filipino patients.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Thirty-two patients with Fitzpatrick skin types III-V and postpartum abdominal laxity received three microwave sessions, with one side randomly assigned an additional fractional carbon dioxide laser session (designated as Side B, while the other as Side A). Global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) scores and patient satisfaction (PS) scores were determined at every follow-up. Baseline and completion anthropometric measurements were taken, and adverse effects were recorded.

RESULTS

Significant improvements in GAIS and PS scores were noted for both sides across all sessions (p < 0.001), with side B showing superior scores post-CO2 laser (p < 0.001). A moderate correlation between metabolic equivalent (METs) scores and GAIS scores (p = 0.413, p = 0.019) indicated that higher levels of physical activity were associated with higher GAIS scores. These improvements were attributed to epidermal thickening and dermal collagen and elastin remodeling, the latter seen histologically in a representative patient. Adverse effects were mild and noted only with CO2 laser.

CONCLUSIONS

The combined use of the microwave system and fractional CO2 laser is safe and well tolerated and is superior to microwaves alone in the treatment of postpartum abdominal laxity.

An innovative microwave technology for the treatment of submental skin laxity

BACKGROUNDS AND AIMS

Submental skin laxity (SSL), manifesting as sagging skin and double chin, can significantly affect patients' self-perception and social interactions. While surgical treatments exist, non-invasive methods are increasingly sought for their minimal recovery time. This study assesses the safety and effectiveness of a novel microwave-based device for treating SSL, aiming to provide long-term improvements in skin tightness and appearance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten female patients with moderate to severe SSL underwent two treatments spaced 30 days apart using a 2.45 GHz non-invasive microwave device, with a specific handpiece. Treatment sessions lasted 10 min each, targeting the submental region. The Submental Skin Laxity Grade (SMSLG) was assessed before treatment and 12 weeks after the final session. Safety was monitored, and standardized photographs were taken for clinical evaluation.

RESULTS

All patients showed a significant reduction in SSL, with SMSLG scores improving from a mean of 3.6 at baseline to 2.3 after 12 weeks. No adverse effects were reported, and patients experienced minimal discomfort during and after the treatment sessions. Photographs revealed visible improvements in skin tone and tightness across all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The microwave-based treatment demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing SSL and improving skin tone with minimal side effects, offering a promising alternative to surgical interventions. This non-invasive approach provides effective outcomes in fewer sessions and may represent a new standard for non-surgical skin tightening in aesthetic dermatology.

Microwave-Energy-Based Device for the Treatment of Cellulite and Localized Adiposity: Recommendations of the "Onda Coolwaves" International Advisory Board

The body contour market has grown rapidly in recent years, due to persistent requests for noninvasive treatments for localized fat adiposities, cellulite, and skin laxity. A variety of different methods are now available to improve body shaping. This review aims to provide an exhaustive compendium of the main recommendations for the optimal use of an innovative device delivering microwaves (MWs) for unwanted fat and cellulite reduction (Onda Coolwaves, DEKA, Florence, Italy), resulting from the experiences of the most expert international users. The availability of this new technology has led to an increasing number of treated patients and clinical studies. However, what is still missing, to the best of our knowledge, is an evaluation of the long-term efficacy and safety of this method. Based on the most recent data available, this compendium focuses on the ideal parameters, patient selection, and treatment methodology for providing safe and effective treatment protocols. Future research findings may suggest changes to the conclusions or recommendations in this report.

The effects of alpha-lipoic acid transdermal patch for local subcutaneous fat reduction: A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial in overweight volunteers

Background

Combating obesity is challenging, as anti-obesity compounds lose effectiveness or cause severe side effects when delivered via conventional routes. Thus, there is a need for new, effective treatment routes that are home-based and safe for long-term use. This double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed to investigate the efficacy of a biocellulose transdermal patch containing α-lipoic acid (ALA), an anti-obesity compound, in reducing subcutaneous fat accumulation.

Methods

One hundred and sixteen overweight participants (average age 37.96 ± 7.80 years) were recruited for the study. They were randomly assigned to apply either the calcium citrate nanoparticle-encapsulated ALA transdermal patch or a placebo on their arm. The participants' body weight, height, blood lipid profile (cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein), arm circumference, triceps skin fold, and subcutaneous fat thickness were recorded at baseline and at the 2-week follow-up.

Results

The mean arm circumference did not show any significant difference from baseline, whereas the triceps skinfold and subcutaneous fat thickness showed a significant reduction. The 2-week treatment did not significantly alter the plasma LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels of the participants, but it significantly reduced the total cholesterol level.

Conclusion

This study reports the successful reduction of subcutaneous fat of the calcium citrate nanoparticle-encapsulated ALA transdermal patches. The transdermal patches could be used as a safe and effective home-based solution for combating obesity.

New developments in cosmetic applications of electromagnetic fields: Client and occupational hazard assessment

Energy-based devices are used to improve features of appearance for aesthetic reasons while avoiding more invasive methods. Examples of treatment targets are the reduction of wrinkles, sagging, unwanted skin lesions, body hair and excess fatty tissue, and the enhancement of muscle tissue. One treatment modality is the use of electromagnetic fields (EMF, 0‒300 GHz). The present work aims to give an up-to-date survey of cosmetic applications of EMF for professional use with an assessment of client and worker exposure and possible adverse effects. A systematic search was conducted for peer-reviewed articles (2007-2022), patents, premarket notifications, manufacturer data, and adverse effects reports. Five categories of cosmetic EMF device with increasing frequency were identified: sinusoid low frequency magnetic fields for lipolysis; pulsed low frequency magnetic fields for skin rejuvenation; pulsed low frequency magnetic fields for muscle building; radiofrequency EMF for lipolysis or skin rejuvenation; microwaves for hair removal or hyperhidrosis. In the vicinity of the last four device categories, there is a potential for exceeding the occupational exposure limits in the European Union EMF Directive, which could lead to nerve or muscle stimulation, burns or overheating. There are also potential hazards for clients or workers wearing active or passive medical devices. The severity of reported adverse effects increases with EMF frequency.

Three-dimensional analysis for measuring volumetric changes after a noninvasive treatment performed with a new system delivering microwave energy for unwanted abdominal fat reduction

BACKGROUND

A growing demand for aesthetic treatments for localized abdominal unwanted fat has developed as a healthy lifestyle is not always able to improve abdomen appearance.

AIMS

The purpose of this retrospective nonrandomized observational study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new device delivering microwaves energy for unwanted fat reduction, using three-dimensional (3D) imaging analysis.

METHODS

Twenty patients (both female and male) were treated in the abdominal area. Subjects received 4 treatments with the study device. Follow-up evaluations were conducted to estimate safety and efficacy. A Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was used for pain assessment. Patient's 3D imaging analysis was performed at baseline and at 3 months follow-up. Finally, a satisfaction questionnaire was filled in by all the patients.

RESULTS

All subjects completed the whole cycle of treatments and presented for the follow-up visits. Analysis of 3D imaging yielded a significantly reduction in circumference (cm) and volume (cm3 ), passing, respectively, from 85.2 ± 8.1 cm and 1950.6 ± 471.0 cm3 at baseline to 80.8 ± 8.2 cm and 1728.9 ± 490.9 cm3 (p < 0.001) at 3-months follow-up after the last treatment. According to the NRS results, the treatment was well tolerated. From the analysis of the satisfaction questionnaire the 90% of patients are interested in carrying out the same treatment in other body areas.

CONCLUSION

With the use of three-dimensional imaging techniques, the efficacy of a new system delivering microwaves energy for the reduction of abdominal volume correlated to a subdermal fat reduction while preserving/improving skin tightening, was quantitatively and objectively demonstrated.

[Results on reduction of subcutaneous adipose tissue using a novel body contouring system based on microwave technology]

BACKGROUND

Over the past decade, the body shaping market has seen steady growth. In order to improve procedures to reduce localized fat deposits, a novel method specifically targeting subcutaneous adipose tissue was developed.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to demonstrate that a novel microwave device with a frequency of 2.45 GHz achieves visible results with greater safety and consistency in reducing adipose tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In all, 19 healthy patients (10 women and 9 men; age 24-55 years, average age 39 years) and visible abdominal fat received three microwave treatment sessions (each 4 weeks apart) using the new Onda Plus Body Shaping System (DEKA, Italy). The device uses a handpiece that generates microwaves with a frequency of 2.45 GHz and integrated cooling for optimal patient comfort during treatment. An appropriate treatment protocol was established and applied for approximately 10 min in each treatment area. Before the start of treatment, informed consent and photo release forms were signed by all patients. Before each treatment session, the following were collected: body weight, height, waist circumference, and photographs of the area to be treated. All areas to be treated were premarked with a white skin marker pen while standing. Obese patients and those in whom fat deposits were distributed over the entire body or whose skin was in a state of irreversible flaccidity were excluded. A blood test was performed for each patient, both before the start of treatment (T0) and at the end of the entire treatment protocol (T3).

RESULTS

All patients met the inclusion/exclusion criteria of the study and signed an informed consent form. The 19 healthy adults were divided into three groups according to the size of the abdominal fold (pinch): group 1 comprised 4 patients with a pinch greater than 4.5 cm, group 2 had 10 patients with a pinch of 2.5-4.5 cm, and group 3 had 5 patients with a pinch less than 2.5 cm. At the 3‑month follow-up, the clinically measurable reduction in abdominal circumference was 3.80 ± 1.21 cm in all patients.

CONCLUSION

The microwave-based body contouring system was shown to be safe and effective to reduce abdominal circumference. No severe pain or noticeable discomfort was reported during any of the treatment sessions.

Successful treatment of submental fat using a non-focused pulsed ultrasound

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of non-invasive aesthetic treatments is increasing, with patients demanding easier, safer, and more effective non-invasive cosmetic procedures. Submental fat is usually addressed using liposuction, which is associated with significant adverse events and a long recovery. Although newer, non-invasive submental fat treatments are gaining popularity, they are often complex, require frequent injections, or have adverse side effects.

AIMS

Assess the safety and efficacy of vacuum-assisted acoustic wave technology for treating submental.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Fourteen female patients underwent a total of three weekly 15-min treatments using ultrasound with a 40 mm bell-shaped sonotrode. Improvement in submental fat was assessed 3 months after the final treatment using questionnaires for the patients and physicians. Two blinded dermatologists rated each patient using the Clinician-Reported Submental Fat Rating Scale (CR-SMFRS) 5-point scale.

RESULTS

Both physicians rated a significant improvement in all 14 patients. Furthermore, self-evaluation of the 14 patients on a 1 to 5 satisfaction scale averaged 2.14, indicating that most patients were somewhat satisfied.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that a three-treatment course with an acoustic wave ultrasound applicator with 1-week intervals leads to a significant reduction in submental fat and can be used as a novel, efficient treatment paradigm.

Microwave System: A Novel Treatment for Localized Adiposity Reduction in a Latin American Population

Background

The microwave body remodeling system is indicated for people who want to improve their physical appearance as it can penetrate deep tissues, causing thermic stress on adipocytes to produce adipolysis while in superficial tissues, it dissolves fibrous tracts and stimulates new collagen.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the localized adiposity reduction in Latin American patients using a microwave system.

Methods

A total of 35 patients with a mean age of 47.5 (±9.0) years received body remodeling treatment, using the microwave system between the years 2019-2022 in a Bogota, Colombia reference center. Data descriptive analysis was made as well as single-factor repeated measures ANOVA to show pre- and post-treatment difference, and mixed ANOVA for body mass index (BMI) subgroup analysis was performed.

Results

In all patients examined, statistical significant differences were found in pre- and post-treatment skinfold test for each body area: superior abdomen (F(1,27) = 63.13; p=0.001), iliac crest (F(1, 23) = 114.33; p < 0.001), posterior waist (F(1, 20) = 27.36; p < 0.001), trochanter (F(1, 17) = 26.94; p < 0.001), among others.

Conclusions

According to the study's findings, this microwave system is an innovative and effective technique for body remodeling and cellulite and localized fat reduction.

Use of a microwave device for the treatment of cellulite and localized fat adiposity: a 1-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND

The body contour market has grown steadily over the last years, due to the persistent demand for non-invasive treatments for localized fat adiposities, cellulite, and skin laxity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The purpose of this observational study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new device delivering microwaves (MWs) energy for unwanted fat and cellulite reduction after a full cycle of treatments and 1 year later. A total of 45 patients with localized adiposity and/or cellulite in different body areas (inner thigh, upper arm, abdomen, culotte de cheval, buttocks), received four treatment sessions, 4 weeks apart. Photographic records and global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) score were performed.

RESULTS

For the treatment of cellulite the average GAIS score passed from 3.65 ± 0.49 at 1-month follow-up (1MFU) to 2.7 ± 0.66 at 1-year follow-up (1YFU). For the treatment of localized adiposity, the average GAIS score passed from 3.52 ± 0.51 at 1MFU to 2.82 ± 0.88 at 1YFU. No particular red area was detected either during or after the treatment. There was no mention of assessment of pain or side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings showed that MWs allow for the treatment of cellulite and localized fat adiposity in a safe and effective way, with results lasting over time up to 1 year after the end of the treatment.

A New Protocol to Treat Abdominal Subcutaneous Fat Combining Microwaves and Flat magnetic stimulation

Background: A healthy lifestyle is not always able to improve the abdomen’s appearance, especially in those patients who have undergone sudden weight changes. Objective: We aimed at evaluating the efficacy of combined microwaves and flat magnetic stimulation (FMS) to treat abdominal localized adiposity and laxity. Methods: Twenty-five patients were subjected to two treatment sessions per month on the abdominal area with microwaves. FMS was also performed twice per week, with a minimum of two days between each session for two months. The technology uses three types of different protocols: massage, muscle definition (shaping), and muscular strengthening. Measurements, including body mass index (BMI) and waist, and abdominal ultrasound were performed at baseline and three months after the last treatment session. Blood examinations were performed, and a 5-Likert scale questionnaire was used to assess patient satisfaction. Results: At follow-up, three months after the last treatment, the mean waist circumference (WC) was significantly reduced, and skin laxity improved in all patients (p < 0.001). A significant improvement in abdominal muscle tissue thickness was also shown in all abdominal areas, and the thickness of the adipose tissue evaluated by ultrasound was reduced. Conclusions: This study proves that the combination of microwaves and FMS treatment is secure and efficient for treating abdominal subcutaneous fat and skin laxity.

Microwave Therapy for Cellulite: An Effective Non-Invasive Treatment

Background: Cellulite represents a common cosmetic problem that affects nearly all women. This study aimed to evaluate microwave therapy’s effectiveness for cellulite treatment. Methods: In this study, 26 women showing severe or moderate cellulite underwent four sessions of microwave therapy on the buttocks and posterior thighs. The following assessments were performed at baseline and the three-month follow-up after the last treatment: the Cellulite Severity Scale (CSS), Nürnberger–Müller classification scale, photographic evaluation, and buttocks/posterior thighs circumference measurements. A Likert scale questionnaire was used to assess patient satisfaction at the 3-month follow-up. Results: The treatment positively affected the cellulite severity as confirmed by the Cellulite Severity Scale (CSS) and Nürnberger–Müller classification scale results. CSS showed a significant amelioration in cellulite severity between the initial assessment and the 3-month follow-up for the buttocks and posterior thighs, with total average scores that ranged from 10.7 ± 3.1 to 4.5 ± 1.8 (p < 0.01). The treatment also resulted in a remarkable improvement in comfort/satisfaction and a buttocks and posterior thighs circumference reduction. No serious adverse events were observed. Conclusions: Microwave therapy has proven to be a safe treatment for improving cellulite appearance and reducing body circumferences.