VelaShape is a noninvasive body contouring treatment that’s been cleared by the FDA for temporary cellulite reduction, as well as the circumferential reduction of the thighs and abdomen.
Unlike most cellulite treatments that use just one modality to treat the appearance of dimpled skin, this one uses a combination of four: infrared light, bipolar radiofrequency (RF) energy, mechanical massage, and gentle suction.
The suction brings the skin closer to the energy source inside the handheld device, working with the massage to help relax and stretch the stiff fibrous bands under the skin that cause the dimpling and orange peel texture known as cellulite.
The infrared and RF energies heat the skin, tightening tissue and making fat cells shrink and, in some cases, die.
The most commonly treated areas are the thighs, buttocks, upper arms, and stomach. It can also reduce excess fat and mildly sagging skin under the chin.
The heat reduces skin laxity by tightening the existing underlying dermal collagen fibers and stimulating collagen and elastin production, which builds more firmness and elasticity over time.
It’s frequently paired with RF microneedling, to smooth and tighten the skin faster and more effectively.
What happens during a VelaShape treatment?
During the treatment, you’ll lie on a table while your doctor places the handheld device against your skin.
You’ll feel a gentle suctioning as the device pulls the skin’s fatty layer closer to the device, to maximize exposure to the infrared light and RF energy. You’ll also feel a warm sensation as it causes “deep heating of the connective tissue, which stimulates collagen,” . Let your doctor know if the treatment feels too hot at any point.
“At the end of a procedure, you should feel like you’ve had a vigorous deep tissue massage. Your skin should be pink and warm to the touch,”
