What to ask about non-surgical body treatments

Areas people ask about

Body treatments are discussed for many areas. Common questions involve:

• the abdomen and flanks
• the thighs and buttocks
• the upper arms
• the area under the chin
• the back
• the legs, for lymphatic massage

Each area may suit a different device or method, and some may not suit any. A licensed provider looks at the area, asks about your health and medicines, and decides what is suitable. Visits usually come as a series, and the number varies.

Device choice and the area

Body contouring devices come in several types. Some use cold, some use heat or radiofrequency, and some use other energy such as ultrasound or magnetic fields. Each has applicators shaped for certain areas. A licensed provider chooses based on the area, your skin, the tissue, and your health history.

Ask which device they use and why it fits the area you are asking about. Ask whether they have more than one type. If they say a device is unsuitable for you, ask what would be, including whether a doctor's visit makes more sense.

Getting ready for a body treatment consultation

A few notes make a body treatment consultation more useful:

• the area or areas you want to ask about
• your health conditions, especially heart, circulation, nerve or skin conditions
• implanted devices or metal implants
• medicines and supplements, including blood thinners
• recent surgery, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• any past body treatments and how you found them

Bring the notes, photo ID and your questions. A licensed provider uses them to decide what is suitable.

Questions about body treatments

More consultation topics