Acoustic Wave Therapy

Acoustic Wave Therapy

Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) represents a new approach to cellulite treatment. AWT uses pressure waves that impact both of the major causes of cellulite: fibrous septae and protrusion of fat into the lower dermis.The AWT produces a pressure wave that passes through skin and fat to impact the fibrous septae. The pressure breaks up the collagen of the septae and releases the skin, allowing a smoother surface. Patients are typically treated twice per week for three weeks; the therapy is painless and requires less than half hour per session. Acoustic Wave Therapy is Food and Drug Administration, "FDA" approved as class 1 device Therapeutic Massager. Results of Acoustic Wave Therapy What is cellulite? Cellulite is the changes in skin texture that result in an "orange peel" or "mattress" appearance to the skin. Cellulite is much more common in women. Studies show 85-98% of women have some cellulite. Unfortunately for women, their fat is organized perpendicular to the skin. This results in pulling down of the skin by the connective tissue support structure and an uneven surface. Cellulite is a normal process in women, so for many years medical science was not interested in treating it. Only in the last several years have any studies been done to identify the cause of cellulite. What are the Causes of Cellulite? Recent studies have revealed two major causes of cellulite. The first is a hardening of the connective tissue support system of fat. These are referred to as connective tissue (fibrous) septae. These are made of collagen. Over time, these septae harden and contract. The contraction results in most of the dimpled appearance that characterizes cellulite. Additionally, the contraction leads to a blockage of the blood vessels and lymphatics. The blood vessel blockage further hardens the septae. The lymphatic blockage leads to thick, swollen appearing skin. The second major cause of cellulite is protrusion of fat cells into the lower part of the skin known as the "reticular dermis". This protrusion results in worsening of the dimpling.tips on acne