Reduction in thigh circumference and improvement in the appearance of cellulite with dual-wavelength, low-level laser energy and massage

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a low-level, dual-wavelength laser energy and massage device for improving the appearance of cellulite and reducing thigh circumference. Methods: Subjects (n = 83) with mild to moderate cellulite enrolled in this IRB-approved, open-label, multicenter study. Their right or left thighs received eight treatments with a low-level, dual-wavelength laser and massage device. The untreated contralateral thigh served as a control. Circumferences of the upper, middle, and lower thighs (treated and untreated) were measured before the fifth and eighth treatments and 1 month after the final treatment. Results: Reduction in thigh circumference of the treated areas exceeded those of the control areas for the upper, middle, and lower thigh in most subjects. The maximum reduction (−0.82 cm) occurred in the upper thigh at 1 month. The mean reduction of the upper, middle, and lower thigh circumferences was −0.64 cm for the treated thighs compared to −0.20 cm for untreated thighs. The difference was significant (p < 0.0001). Fifty-nine (71.1%) treatment thighs lost circumference compared to 44 (53.0%) control thighs. Resolution of adverse effects including erythema, swelling, and increased urination was seen within 30 minutes after treatment. All were resolved without sequelae and within the expected duration. Conclusion: The low-level, dual-wavelength laser energy and massage device safely improves the appearance of cellulite while reducing thigh circumference.