VelaShape Body Contouring

As we age, our body changes and issues such as cellulite or excess fat deposits in areas such as the abdomen and buttocks start to appear. Even when a healthy diet and exercise routine is maintained, both of these issues can be difficult to overcome. Cellulite is a problem that affects a very high percentage of women at some point in their lives. Cellulite is less common in men because they have lower amounts of estrogen than women, but can still occur, especially as a man ages. Cellulite is caused by the process of fat cells “pushing” their way through the collagen in the skin. This is the cause of the random looking lumps and bumps that are the trademark of cellulite, which can cause the appearance of dimpling and pits on the skin’s surface. Cellulite can appear in a number of places on the body. The ‘orange peel’ look can typically be found on the outer thighs, but can also occur on the upper arms, neck and buttock,love handles, abdomen and flanks. Dr. Michele Green is an expert in non-invasive body contouring and offers the latest in fat reduction with Coolsculpting, Thermage, CoolTone, and VelaShape treatment in her boutique NYC dermatology office.

In the past, there have been very few treatments available which can help with both cellulite reduction and body contouring, but as technology developments, new procedures become available. VelaShape iii is the best new, non-surgical technology with ground breaking technology, to minimize the cosmetic appearance of cellulite. The treatment works with a combination of four mechanisms: suction for better access to the treatment area, massaging to relax the fibrous bands under the skin, infrared light and bi-polar radio frequency technology to shrink fat cells and boost production of collagen and elastin for firmer skin. Dr. Michele Green was one of the first dermatologists in New York to bring this innovative treatment to her New York City patients.

Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Green, has been expertly treating patients in her Upper East Side New York City office for more than 25 years. Experienced in a wide range of treatments, including body contouring with VelaShape, CoolSculpting, and QWO, as well as many other cosmetic treatments, such as Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatment, microneedling, and more, Dr. Green is well known for high patient satisfaction. In fact, Dr. Green has been frequently voted as one of the best healthcare providers in New York City by publications such as New York Magazine, Castle Connolly, and Super Doctors.

What is VelaShape?

VelaShape® is a non-invasive body shaping/body contouring treatment which has been tested in various clinical studies and FDA approved to provide a reduction in the appearance of cellulite and also can target thigh, buttock, and abdominal fat. For optimal results, five or more treatment sessions may be required with VelaShape® to have the best cosmetic results. The procedure is quick to administer and does not require any down time once the treatment has taken place. The fact that there is no recovery times makes it advantageous for those with a busy schedule who can’t afford to take time off from their schedule. Many patients do not want invasive procedures with significant down time like liposuction.

The way VelaShape® works is that it uses a combination of two key techniques, infrared light (IR) and bi-polar radio frequency energy (RF). This energy is combined with vacuum suction and deep-tissue massage. In tandem, these processes cause deep heating within the fat cells and the connecting tissue. Deep heating the underlying dermal collagen fibers and surrounding connective tissue, allows for the re-generation of new collagen and elastin, which is stronger, firmer, and more elastic. This new collagen which is generated in turn helps smooth the skin tone and texture in the treated area.

The suction on the VelaShape brings the skin closer to the energy source in the device and in combination with the deep-tissue massage, helps to stretch out the stiff fibrous bands under the skin, which contribute to the appearance of cellulite. The radiofrequency and infrared light energies cause deep heating of the fat cells, and bring about cellulite reduction by tightening the skin and shrinking fat cells. VelaShape will provide a general smoothing of the area treated, helping to significantly improve the appearance of cellulite.

What is VelaShape Body Contouring?

VelaShape Body Contouring is an FDA-cleared treatment to help decrease the appearance of cellulite, boost collagen production, and decrease the size of fat cells in the treatment area. The treatment works with four different methods – suction, massaging, infrared light, and bi-polar radiofrequency energy, – which also increase circulation, lymphatic drainage, and helps with firming the skin for a smoother, more even texture. VelaShape treatment can be applied to many parts of the body but is most commonly used on the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and flanks, and studies have shown that VelaShape is effective at decreasing the circumference of the thigh and slimming down other treatment areas for a contoured look to the body. For patients who are looking for a more contoured appearance and are wary of surgical methods, VelaShape body contouring treatment is easier to access, with no downtime necessary following the procedure.

What is cellulite?

A common skin condition that affects up to 90% of all women, cellulite is characterized by a dimpled appearance to the skin, and is mostly commonly seen on the thighs, buttocks, or abdomen. Cellulite can affect men as well but is more common in women due to increased levels of estrogen found in females, which contributes to the accumulation of larger fat cells. The size and concentration of fat cells in a given area is one of factors that contributes to the appearance of cellulite, along with higher skin laxity, and the fibrous bands that connect the skin to the muscle. Cellulite is formed when collagen-rich fibrous bands create tension on the surface of the skin. When there is a high concentration of fat cells found in the area, the tension of the fibrous bands causes the fat cells to bulge towards the skin’s surface, which contributes to the appearance of dimpling and rippling skin. As we age, production of the proteins collagen and elastin decreases, contributing to looser skin, which can emphasize the appearance of cellulite in the area, as the laxer the skin, the more space available for fat cells to fill and bulge. There are three grades for assessing the severity of cellulite: grade 1 (mild), which is characterized by an “orange peel” look to the shallow dimples in the skin, grade 2 (moderate), characterized by deeper ripples on the skin that create a “cottage cheese-like” look, and grade 3 (severe), which is characterized by deep dimples and a “mattress-like” appearance to the skin.

How does Velashape treat Cellulite?

VelaShape body contouring treatment is effective in reducing the appearance of cellulite through several means. Cellulite appears on the skin as a result of fibrous bands, known as septae, creating tension on the surface of the skin, which pushes the fat cells in the area towards the skin’s surface, leading to dimpling and rippling. High skin laxity can also result in a more severe or dramatic appearance of cellulite on the surface of the skin. VelaShape treatment is able to address the three biological factors that contribute to the appearance of cellulite. With the suction and massage feature of the treatment, VelaShape works to ease the tension in the fibrous bands, which helps to reduce to the pull of the fat cells towards the skin’s surface. With the radiofrequency energy emission, VelaShape treatment targets the fat cells, causing them to shrink. Additionally, the heating of the deep tissue by the radiofrequency energy helps to boost collagen and elastin production, which contributes to the tightening of the skin and reduces skin laxity. All together, the VelaShape body contouring treatment involves several ways of reducing the overall appearance of cellulite.

Who is a good candidate for Velashape treatment?

VelaShape body contouring is a treatment designed to help shrink fat cells and reduce the appearance of cellulite for full body contouring. The procedure is not a weight-loss treatment, and, as such, VelaShape is the ideal procedure for someone at a healthy weight, with mild to moderate cellulite. VelaShape is one of many treatment options available at Dr. Green’s NYC dermatology office that can be used to target pockets of fat and cellulite, and often, Dr. Green will combine VelaShape with other treatments, such as QWO, Kybella, or CoolSculpting for enhanced results. When you have your initial consultation with Dr. Green, you will discuss your treatment goals and she will help you to determine if VelaShape is right to best meet your needs. VelaShape works on all skin types and improves the overall improvement of cellulite in the treated area.

What is the new Velashape iii?

Dr. Green has been treating patients on the Upper East Side with the Velashape iii with great results! The newest of the VelaShape models, VelaShape II, is the most advanced version of this treatment. VelaShape III differs from previous models in that it is able to use stronger, more concentrated pulses of radiofrequency energy more safely. As a result, the effects of the treatment are more dramatic and can appear after fewer treatment sessions than before. Dr. Green always employs the newest, safest, most up-to-date models of any treatment available in her office.

What are the side effects of VelaShape treatment?

Due to the deep-tissue massage associated with VelaShape, there can be some localized bruising of the treatment area. Post VelaShape, the skin may have a pinkish appearance which goes away in a few hours. It is recommended to stop aspirin, motrin, or any other blood thinners for one week before your treatment in order to avoid any unnecessary bruising. VelaShape is not recommended for patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator.

Does VelaShape hurt?

No! Most patients describe VelaShape as a warm deep-tissue massage and is completely painless with no recovery time. There is a warm sensation from the device, from the radiofrequency and infrared light. You will have the benefit of significant improvement in the appearance of your cellulite without any significant discomfort.

Is VelaShape safe?

VelaShape treatment is a safe and effective procedure for body contouring and reducing the appearance of cellulite on the surface of the skin. The treatment is FDA-cleared, meaning that VelaShape has gone through clinical trials, where it has been shown to provide patients with the expected results with no risk of severe side effects. In order to achieve the best results with no adverse effects, VelaShape should be performed by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green.

How many sessions of body sculpting?

VelaShape body contouring works best when patients receive a series treatments. Most patients achieve the best cosmetic results from scheduling a series of five to six treatments approximately two weeks apart. Annual or semi-annual maintenance treatments are suggested to maintain the best cosmetic results.

Does Velashape 3 work?

Yes, VelaShape is a highly effective cellulite treatment. VelaShape was created by Syneron-Candela laser who designed this unique VelaShape technology. A study published in 2015 highlights how VelaShape works and illustrates “significant improvements in mean circumferential reduction and skin laxity” . Another clinical trial in 2014 showed that VelaShape lead to circumferential reductions in the abdomen, buttock, and thighs within three months of their last treatment. The reduction in the abdomen was 1.4 cm, the buttocks 0.5 cm, and the thighs 1.2 cm. These impressive circumferential reductions have been duplicated in patients treated in Dr. Green’s office. In its clinical trials, many patients had a reduction of one full dress size after a series of treatments.

As a combination of infrared light, bi-bolar radiofrequency, suction, and mechanical massage, the connective tissue bands which hold the fat cells in place are disrupted, and the the heat destroys the fat cells and stimulates new collagen formation. VelaShape’s suction and massage rollers relax the fibrous bands which increases circulation and encourages lymph drainage. The deep heating of the fat cells, the fibrous connective tissue, and underlying dermal collagen fibers, shrinks the fat cells in the treatment area. It is this combination of modalities which makes VelaShape so effective for cellulite treatment with dramatic results.

Which areas of the body does VelaShape treat?

• thighs
• love handles
• flanks
• abdomen
• buttocks
• saddlebags
• hips
• upper arm
• neck

Is VelaShape treatment right for me?

VelaShape is not a weight loss treatment. VelaShape uses a combination of technologies to contour the body and reduce cellulite, which diet and exercise cannot improve. The ideal VelaShape patient is someone with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of less than 30, who falls under The Nurnberger-Muller Cellulite Classification Stage 1 and 2. Stage 1 cellulite shows no dimpling when you stand or lie down. A pinch test reveals and “orange peel” look when you are standing up in stage 1 or 2. During your consultation with Dr. Green, you will see if you are a good candidate for the VelaShape treatment.

What are the stages of cellulite?

• Stage 1:  NO dimpling while the patients is standing or lying down, but the pink test reveals the “orange peel” appearance.
• Stage 2:  “Orange peel” dimpling appears spontaneously when standing up, but NOT when lying down.
• Stage 3:  “Orange peel” dimpling appears spontaneously both when standing up AND lying down.

What results can I expect in circumferential reduction?

Circumferential reduction refers to a slimming of the treatment area, resulting in thighs or abdomen with a smaller circumference. In clinical trials, the body contouring component of VelaShape led to a reduction of one entire dress size after completion of treatment sessions. You will see a gradual smoothing of the skin’s surface with an impressive reduction in cellulite.

How long do the effects of VelaShape last?

The results from VelaShape® in your treated area are not permanent since the body is constantly aging and changing. However, most patients report the results lasting at least six to twelve months and for some, much longer. One of the deciding factors is whether a healthy lifestyle, exercise and balanced diet routine is maintained. Typically, individuals who aim for these standards tend to benefit more from the treatment, and the results from VelaShape can last much longer. It is recommended that periodic maintenance VelaShape treatments will be best for continued cosmetic results.

Is body contouring permanent?

VelaShape body contouring provides long lasting results but is not a permanent treatment for fat and cellulite reduction. The effects of the treatment typically last between six and twelve months after your three to six treatments scheduled approximately six weeks a part. Patients who maintain a healthy lifestyle, including healthy eating habits and a regular exercise regimen, may see the effects of the treatment for even longer. A touch up appointment can be scheduled for once every six months as another method for maintaining results over time.

How long does a VelaShape iii treatment take?

VelaShape is a quick and easy procedure with no downtime that can be completely over a lunchtime. The treatment requires no preparation in the days before, however, Dr. Green recommends that patients stay hydrated before coming in, as being hydrated can help improve the results. In the office, Dr. Green will apply the handheld device to the treatment area, where patients will feel a suction feeling, like a deep tissue massage and a feeling of heat. Depending on the treatment area, a Velashape treatment can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, then following the treatment, patients can immediately return to their regularly scheduled activities.

How does VelaShape iii compare to older versions?

VelaShape iii is the latest VelaShape device and uses higher energies very safely and effectively. As a result, your results are visible in a shorter period of time. Some patients feel improvement even after the first treatment.

Does Velashape tighten loose skin?

Velashape tightness the skin by producing new collagen and elastin which restuls in a localized reduction in skin laxity, body volume, and  an overall improvement in skin structure and texture. This process creates an impressive clinical improvement in the appearance of cellulite and cellulite reduction. If skin tightening is the primary goal of your skin concern, Dr. Green will review Thermage for skin tightening with you where the Thermage FLX is currently the gold standard in non-invasive skin tightening.

How much does VelaShape iii Cost?

VelaShape cellulite reduction costs $850 or more depending on the area treated and the number of sessions needed. When you have your initial consultation with Dr. Green, you will discuss your aesthetic goals and she will examine the treatment area, after which her office will be able to provide a clearer estimate of the total cost of treatment.

How long does it take to see results from VelaShape?

The results from Velashape can be visible even after the first or second treatment. The best cosmetic results can be seen two months after the full treatment series is completed.

How does VelaShape compare to Cellfina?

VelaShape is entirely non-invasive, painless, with no down time at all. Cellfina is invasive and uses small needles to loosen the fibrous connect bands which create dimpling and the appearance of cellulite on your skin.

What is Qwo for cellulite?

Qwo is an FDA approved injectable for the treatment of moderate to severe cellulite in the buttock area. Qwo is produced from the enzyme collagenase clostridium histolytic-aaas. Qwo is injected into the cellulite of the buttock area to release the fibrous septa of the connective tissue enzymatically. Qwo targets the degradation of types 1 and 3 collagen and results in smoothing of the skin and improving the appearance of cellulite. There has been significant bruising and reports of hardening in the treatment area with Qwo. Qwo may be removed from the market and physician use in 2023.

How does VelaShape compare to Coolsculpting?

Coolsculpting treatment is specifically designed to treat fat bulges on the upper arms, inner and outer thighs, abdomen, flanks, love handles, buttocks, knees, and bra fat. The procedure works through a process called “cryolipolysis,” which involves the controlled cooling of the fat cells in the treatment area. Fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than the surrounding tissue, meaning that the CoolSculpting applicator can cause fat cells to reach their freezing point while the surrounding tissue remains unaffected. When the fat cells freeze they rupture, where they are then metabolized by the lymphatic system. Velashape can reduce circumferential fat and cellulite in the abdomen, buttocks and thighs but is not primarily designed for fat treatment. As a result, Dr. Green will often combine CoolSculpting and VelaShape for body contouring, especially on the buttocks. CoolSculpting can be used to eliminate stubborn fat cells completely and then VelaShape works to decrease the circumferential fat in the area and improve the texture and laxity of the skin to reduce the appearance of cellulite.

How does Velashape compare with Thermage?

Velashape and Thermage are both non-invasive body contouring treatments that can be used to improve skin laxity and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Many patients wonder what the differences are between Velashape and Thermage, and which cellulite treatment will work best for them when it comes to achieving their aesthetic goals.

Velashape body contouring treatment utilizes a combination of infrared light, vacuum, and bi-polar radiofrequency energy to deliver deep heat and increase circulation, lymphatic drainage, and new collagen production in the treated area. Velashape can be used to improve the appearance of cellulite on the thighs, love handles, abdomen, buttock, hips, upper arms, and neck. Most patients require a short series of treatment sessions, after which the cellulite reduction results typically last for up to a year. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to deliver heat to the dermis, stimulating the production of new collagen in the treatment areas. As collagen is generated in the weeks following the treatment session, the skin is firmer, tighter, smoother, and more youthful. Not only does Thermage work to tighten loose skin in a single treatment session, but it is also an excellent treatment option for reducing the appearance of cellulite dimpling without any downtime. Thermage can be used to reduce skin laxity on the face, neck, chest, thighs, abdomen, buttocks, and upper arms, with cosmetic results that last for up to two years.

The best way to determine which non-invasive body contouring treatment will be optimal for addressing your concerns and achieving your goals is to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience providing her patients with the best non-surgical cosmetic treatment options available, including for cellulite reduction and skin tightening, and will work with you to create a personalized body contouring treatment plan that is best suited to you.

Does Velashape work?

VelaShape is a very effective treatment for improving skin texture and laxity, reducing the appearance of cellulite, and decreasing the circumferential fat in a treatment area. Evidence for the effectiveness of the treatment has been demonstrated in several studies published within the last couple of years. Studies published in 2014 and 2015 have shown that VelaShape treatment is effective in circumferential reduction of a treatment area, specifically the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. The 2015 report also demonstrated the effectiveness of VelaShape for addressing skin laxity. In an article released in 2018 by the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, VelaShape treatment was also demonstrated to reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Is body contouring worth it?

Yes! VelaShape body contouring is an effective treatment to lessen the appearance of cellulite, improve skin laxity, and reduce the circumference of the thighs for a more contoured appearance to the body. VelaShape is particularly effective when combined with other treatments, such as Thermage and CoolSculpting for greater fat cell reduction and more dramatic results. Body contouring is certainly worth it for patients who are looking for a slimmer appearance but are battling with stubborn pockets of fat and cellulite even with a healthy eating and exercise regimen.

How do I get started with VelaShape iii for cellulite reduction today?

As many as 90% of all women will experience cellulite throughout their lives, which remains even with a strict diet and exercise routine. As production of collagen and elastin decrease with age, cellulite becomes even more visible on the surface of the skin and changes in hormone levels can increase the size and concentration of fat cells under the skin. Luckily, VelaShape body contouring treatment can work well alone or in combination with treatments such as CoolSculpting and QWO to reduce stubborn pockets of fat and the appearance of cellulite, and improve skin laxity.

If you’re ready for a new non-invasive treatment solution to help with cellulite and body contouring, there’s finally a solution that can help you get excellent results. Contact us online today or call 212-535-3088 to learn more about whether VelaShape® may be right for you.