Ultrasonic cavitation creates bubbles in the fluid surrounding fat cells through low-frequency ultrasound waves, which generate rapid, alternating pressure changes within the tissue. This process causes the interstitial fluid around fat cells to form tiny micro-bubbles, which expand and collapse violently, generating high-pressure shockwaves that disrupt fat cell membranes.
Using a handheld probe, low-frequency ultrasound waves are emitted deep into the skin’s subcutaneous fat layer. These waves create alternating cycles of high pressure (compression) and low pressure (rarefaction) in the surrounding fluid. During the low-pressure cycle (cavitation), tiny bubbles or vapor cavities form, grow, and expand. When these bubbles become unstable, they collapse violently (implode). This generates intense local shockwaves and localized heat that break the fat cell (adipocyte) membrane, releasing its contents into the interstitial fluid. The released fat turns from a solid to a liquid, which the body then processes naturally through the lymphatic and urinary systems.
The process is selective for fat cells, generally leaving surrounding tissues, blood vessels, and nerves unharmed. The procedure is non-invasive and relies on mechanical disruption rather than heat-induced destruction. Clinical studies suggest that a series of treatments can lead to a 30% reduction in local fat thickness in targeted areas.
Research
Bani, D., Quattrini, L., Freschi, G., et al. (2013). Histological and ultrastructural effects of ultrasound-induced cavitation on human skin adipose tissue. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
da Silva, R., Santos, J., de Carvalho, W., et al. (2022). Effects of ultracavitation and radiofrequency on abdominal adiposity. Journal Of Clinical And Aesthetic Dermatology.
Karydi, M., Kefala, V., Rallis, E., et al. (2024). Comparative study of cavitation and extracorporeal shock wave therapy. Review of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics.
Additional Information
Can ultrasound cavitation therapy help with lipedema? | MyChway
Does ultrasonic cavitation actually work? Clinical evidence + real results | Novuskin
Ultrasonic cavitation (ultrasound liposuction) body contouring | Womens Health Services of Maryland
Understanding the mechanism of ultrasound energy in fat cell destruction | Minneapolis Liposuction
What to know about ultrasonic cavitation | Web MD