Pillar article
What is aesthetic ultrasound cavitation?
Long established in salons and clinics, cavitation is one of the non-invasive techniques used to reshape the body. Here is what it is, how sessions work and where its limits lie.
In short
Aesthetic cavitation is a non-invasive technique applying low-frequency ultrasound — typically tens of kilohertz — to the skin. It targets localised subcutaneous fat and body shape, is performed as a course of sessions and is not a substitute for weight loss.
Where the word comes from
In physics, cavitation is the formation of gas microbubbles in a liquid exposed to strong pressure changes. Ultrasound creates exactly those changes: very rapid cycles of compression and rarefaction. In aesthetics, “lipocavitation” or “low-frequency cavitation” uses this mechanical effect on the fat beneath the skin, without incisions or needles.
Cavitation, HIFU, cryolipolysis: not the same thing
| Technique | Energy | Main mode of action |
|---|---|---|
| Low-frequency cavitation | Unfocused ultrasound (kHz) | Mechanical (microbubbles) |
| HIFU | High-intensity focused ultrasound (MHz) | Concentrated thermal effect |
| Cryolipolysis | Controlled cold | Fat cells' sensitivity to cold |
| Radiofrequency | High-frequency current | Tissue heating |
How many sessions?
There is no universal number: it depends on the device, protocol and area. Salon protocols usually involve a course of spaced sessions followed by maintenance. For AdipoXtrem, the manufacturer recommends 6 to 8 sessions, then one session every two weeks to once a month, as needed.
Does it hurt?
Cavitation is generally well tolerated. A buzzing sound or sensation may be noticed, particularly near bones. Warmth or tingling should be reported to the practitioner.
What the literature shows
Reviews of non-invasive body contouring list ultrasound among technologies used for localised fat. They emphasise the best-suited candidates — people close to their ideal weight with localised fat — and the heterogeneity of data between devices [1] [2]. Results published for one device cannot be transferred to another.
Key takeaways
- Aesthetic cavitation uses unfocused low-frequency ultrasound.
- It targets localised fat, not weight loss.
- It is performed as a course of sessions with maintenance.
- Evidence varies between devices: be wary of numerical promises.
Sources
- Ortiz AE, Avram MM. Noninvasive body contouring: cryolipolysis and ultrasound. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2015;34(3):129-133. doi:10.12788/j.sder.2015.0171
- Alizadeh Z, et al. Non-invasive Body Contouring Technologies: An Updated Narrative Review. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2024;48(4):659-679. doi:10.1007/s00266-023-03647-x
References identified via PubMed. For information only; not medical advice.
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