Noninvasive arm fat reduction

Abstract

The demand for new approaches for noninvasive procedures of the upper arm is increasing. This review will present the most recent literature addressing modalities for arm fat reduction. Thirteen papers met inclusion criteria. The greatest arm circumference reduction (2.75 cm) is accomplished with the combination of cryolipolysis and shock therapy. Limited side effects are noted with each treatment modality. The most painful treatment is cryolipolysis. Physicians should be aware of the most common treatment modalities, new advances in devices, and possible side effects that may occur. There is a need to design and implement a universal patient satisfaction scale, such as the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. We recommend a standard approach to fat reduction measurement using three-dimensional imaging and suggest using US at a standardized location such as the midpoint between the olecranon and acromion processes. Although preliminary research suggests that noninvasive contouring of the upper arm is successful with limited adverse events, further research in this field will need to be completed to determine the long-term safety.