The UltraShape procedure uses the latest in fat-reducing technology that helps you lose stubborn fat and overall health. It’s a non-invasive fat-reduction procedure that’s been shown to cause significant weight-loss results.
In this article, we’ll explore the side effects, benefits, and costs of UltraShape.
What is UltraShape?
UltraShape is a non-invasive body shaping treatment. It mainly uses ultrasound-frequency energy, which is a form of ultrasonic cavitation. This breaks up the walls of fat cells on the hips, stomach, and thighs without harming the surrounding tissue, blood vessels, or nerves.
UltraShape is just like other non-invasive body-contouring treatments. It specifically targets areas of stubborn fat and is not intended for significant weight loss.
How Does it Work?
The treatment sessions for UltraShape usually take an hour, and most people who undergo this treatment say that they’re comfortable.
It’s also non-invasive, so you won’t need anesthesia.
It first starts with your provider creating a 3-D digital map of the problem areas that you want to be treated. Then, your provider will ask you to lie down on a table and will glide a handheld device over the area, wherein it delivers ultrasound energy waves that break down and rupture the fat cell membranes.
After the procedure is done, you can return to normal activities immediately.
The fat cells will release triglycerides into your bloodstream in the following weeks, which are processed by the liver and are naturally flushed out. Drinking lots of water will help the process, and also avoiding fatty foods, and exercising regularly.
UltraShape Cost
The cost will depend on the provider’s experience level, the number of treatments required to see your desired results, and their practice location.
Average Cost: $1,458
Range: $675 – $4,500
Before the treatment, always ask your provider for a detailed quote that includes the cost per session and the number of sessions you will need to complete the procedure. Asking about payment plans is also a good idea.
Also, take note that UltraShape is considered an elective procedure and is not covered by medical insurance.
How to Prepare for UltraShape Treatment
First, you need to schedule an appointment with an UltraShape provider near your area or preferred area to see if it’s the right fit for your body and your expectations. It’s non-invasive, little preparation is needed before expectations. Also, incorporating healthy lifestyle choices into your routine before treatment is a must to maximize the UltraShape results. Following a balanced and nutritious diet and exercising at least 20 minutes a day should be done.
Your provider recommends that you drink about 10 cups of water the day of the treatment to stay hydrated. Also, avoid smoking for a few days before treatment.
What to Expect After Treatment
After the treatment, you can resume your regular day-to-day activity immediately.
You can see the results in as little as two weeks after the first UltraShape treatment. It’s recommended that you get three treatments spaced two weeks apart for optimal results. Your provider will help you decide how many treatments are necessary for your needs.
After undergoing the treatment, it eliminates the targeted fat cells as these cells can’t regenerate. But also take note to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine because other fat cells in the surrounding areas can grow bigger.
Risks and Side Effects
Most people who had UltraShape experience little to no discomfort, but they also experience tingling or a warming feeling during the procedure. Some people also reported that they had bruising immediately following the procedure, some also experience blisters, but it’s pretty rare.
From the 2016 clinical data, UltraShape doesn’t cause pain, and 100% of people reported that the treatment was comfortable. [1]
Pros and Cons of UltraShape
There are also pros and cons with the UltraShape, just like all other cosmetic treatments:
Pros
- Minimal recovery time.
- Permanent results, accompanied by a healthy lifestyle.
- Virtually pain-free.
Cons
- Results take time to develop. You’ll see results within two weeks of your first treatment, and the final results will be visible by four months after your last session.
- It needs three treatments, which need to be two weeks apart for optimal results.
- Some people saw no results and had better procedures with CoolSculpting.
UltraShape Before and After
The image above is from before the treatment and after the treatment at a time when all sessions are complete.
UltraShape vs. CoolSculpting
Another non-invasive procedure is CoolSculpting. It’s an in-office fat reduction treatment that also eliminates stubborn pockets of fat. It uses cryolipolysis that freezes and kills fat cells, while UltraShape uses pulsed ultrasound technology.
UltraShape is great since there is typically no pain during or after treatment. With CoolSculpting, most patients can feel pain during and afterward due to the fat cells undergoing frostbite. Some patients also develop serious pain after CoolSculpting, which requires strong prescription pain medication.
Furthermore, Ultrashape removes 33% more fat per treatment than traditional CoolSculpting. UltraShape is faster because one hour of treatment is equivalent to three hours of traditional CoolSculpting.
| UltraShape | CoolSculpting | |
| Technology | Uses ultrasound technology that targets fat cells. | Uses controlled colling, which freezes and destroys fat cells. |
| Safety | Cleared in 2014 by the FDA, non-invasive. | Cleared in 2012 by the FDA, non-invasive. |
| Target Areas | Targets abdominal area flanks. | Targets the upper arms, abdomen, flanks, thighs, back, under the chin, and underneath the buttocks. |
| Side Effects | It’s gentle on the skin, with little to no side effects or discomfort. | It’s associated with minor redness, bruising, or tenderness. |
Does it Tighten the Skin?
It uses a fat reduction technology that does not directly address skin laxity. Tightening the skin isn’t the goal of UltraShape.
Is UltraShape Permanent?
Since the treatment breaks down fat membranes, the results are also permanent unless you gain weight. This makes the remaining cells expand.
Take note that the results are not immediate. Visible results are seen within two weeks of your first treatment and the final results within four months.
The Bottomline: UltraShape Benefits, Costs, and Side Effects
The UltraShape treatment is excellent if you want a painless fat reduction. Moreover, it is FDA-approved and non-invasive, so it’s impressive, right? Keep in mind that a healthy lifestyle, nutritious diet, and regular exercise will give you the optimal result you need.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.