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High-intensity focused ultrasound reduces waist size in as few as 4 weeks

High-intensity focused ultrasound using low or high fluence settings resulted in significant reductions in waist circumference from baseline at 12 weeks, according to a study.

Researchers conducted two multicenter studies in which 118 patients underwent one high-intensity focused ultrasound using one of five treatment protocols, with total fluence ranging from 150 J/cm² to 180 J/cm². Grid repeat and site repeat treatment techniques were used.

Study outcomes included change from baseline waist circumference (CBWC) at 12 weeks, CBWC at 4 and 8 weeks, and patient- and researcher-assessed improvements.

Mean reduction in waist circumference for all subjects was −2.3 cm after 12 weeks, with no significant differences in reduction between the five treatment groups, according to the researchers.

Seventy-eight percent of all patients had a reduction in waist circumference; 64% had reductions greater than 1 cm, and 47% had reduction greater than 2 cm at the 12-week follow-up. Reductions in waist circumference were noted by as early as 4 weeks, according to the researchers.

With regard to patient satisfaction, 60.4% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment results at 12 weeks.

Disclosure: The study was supported by Solta Medical.