VelaShape^® addresses the primary targets of a cellulite treatment: fat reduction, improved circulation and collagen remodeling. These results cannot be permanent as the body is constantly fluctuating and changing. However, it is possible to prolong the effects of a VelaShape^® non-invasive body contouring with a lifestyle of healthy eating and exercise before and after treatment. Also important to maintain the effects of the cellulite treatment is a daily skincare regimen using effective products, sun protection, and, for extra points, daily dry brushing to improve circulation and lymph drainage.

VelaShape^® uses RF energy and infrared light to shrink and destroy fat cells, and vacuum technology for improved circulation and relaxation of the fibrous bands under the skin associated with the dimpling effect of cellulite. These elements work together to stimulate new collagen production and remodel existing collagen for greater tensile strength. As collagen is a primary structural support of skin, this non-invasive body contouring technique will result in tighter skin.³ How much tighter depends on the laxity of the skin before the body contouring treatment, the body’s response, the device settings employed, and the lifestyle choices of the client.

The experience of any non-invasive body contouring or cellulite treatment depends greatly on the area(s) being treated and the sensitivity of the client. VelaShape^® does employ radiofrequency waves, so it is normal to experience a warm sensation during the body contouring treatment and, less often, for a few hours afterwards. Many compare the vacuum and kneading action as similar to a deep tissue massage.

VelaShape^® is a non-invasive body contouring machine FDA-cleared for temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite and temporary reduction of thigh and abdominal circumferences⁴. The unique blend of infrared light, bi-polar RF (radiofrequency) and vacuum suction cause deep heating of the fat cells, their surrounding connective tissue and the underlying dermal collagen fibers. This stimulates the growth of new collagen and elastin for localized reduction in skin laxity, body volume, and an overall improvement in skin appearance for an effective body contouring and cellulite treatment.⁵ The ideal VelaShape^® patient has a BMI (Body Mass Index) of less than 30 and falls under The Nurnberger-Muller Cellulite Classification Stage 1 and 2.⁶

The length of a VelaShape^® non-invasive body contouring will vary depending upon the treatment area(s), but sessions generally range from 30 to 90 minutes.

Although VelaShape^® is a cellulite treatment, it is not a cure. VelaShape^® is classified and approved by the FDA as a cellulite treatment, but it does not directly work on the cellulite itself. Cellulite is essentially caused by a layer of fat bulging thru the collagen lattice-work of the skin, creating a dimpling effect. Although a larger store of fat may worsen the appearance of cellulite, it is only one aspect of cellulite. Other contributing factors are circulation and collagen quantity and quality. VelaShape^® is a unique treatment in that it addresses all three aspects to achieve cellulite reduction and body contouring. Fat stores are reduced, circulation is improved and collagen is increased and strengthened, all of which combine to reduce the appearance of cellulite.⁷

Both VelaShape^® and CoolSculpting^® are non-invasive body contouring options that result in the destruction of fat cells, but they use very different methods. To put it simply, CoolSculpting^® freezes the fat (cryolipolysis) while VelaShape^® uses heat generated by radiofrequency waves to destroy fat cells. VelaShape^® also creates a tightening of the skin by increasing collagen production and remodeling existing stores of collagen. There are situations in which CoolSculpting^® is more effective for body contouring and others where VelaShape^® is preferred. Some clinics even offer the two treatments as a dual package to maximize results. As always, it’s necessary to consult with an experienced clinician to determine which non-invasive body contouring treatment or combo of treatments is right for you.

VelaShape^® is classified as a class II medical device by the FDA, but it is up to the state to decide who can operate such a device. Some states allow practitioners with only a cosmetology or esthetics license to operate class II devices, while other states may require the operator hold medical credentials or work under direct medical supervision.

Yes, VelaShape^® achieved approval as a class II medical device for temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite and for circumferential reduction of thighs and abdomen by the FDA in 2007.8