Using High Frequency Ultrasound to Assess the Efficacy of Anti-Cellulite Treatments

The number of anti-cellulite therapies has been increasing steadily, as cellulite is an undesirable cosmetic defect affecting approximately 90% women worldwide. Despite this plethora of treatments, an objective method to enable their efficacy assessment is yet to be established.

The aim of the study was to assess the usefulness of high frequency ultrasonography for evaluating the effectiveness of anti-cellulite therapy.

Eighty-four women aged 21-66 years with cellulite were randomised to one of 3 groups to receive one of three anti-cellulite treatments - ALIDYA™ mesotherapy treatment [Group 1, G1], cellulite-reducing body wrap treatment [Group 2, G2] or Endermologie^® [Group 3, G3]. All measurements and ultrasound assessments were carried out at baseline and on day 14-18 following treatment completion at the same body location and using identical ultrasound scanner settings.

A significant reduction in subcutaneous tissue thickness, skin echogenicity and surface area of fat protrusions at the dermal-subcutaneous junction was demonstrated. There was a significant reduction of dermal thickness G2 and G3, but not in G1. Reduction in thigh circumference and BMI was also statistically significant in each group. Correlations were demonstrated between cellulite severity and the surface area of fat protrusions at the dermal subcutaneous junction and subcutaneous tissue thickness. The participants in G3 reported highest satisfaction with treatment outcomes.

The present study demonstrated that high frequency ultrasound enables efficacy assessment of anti-cellulite treatments and, as a reliable, available and easy to use assessment method, it has a potential to become a common aspect of daily clinical practice. Further research is warranted to develop a uniform assessment protocol and standards.