Delivering rapid acoustic pulses to improve the appearance of cellulite has similar safety and efficacy results at both 100 Hz and 50 Hz, according to an October 2023 study in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine (LSM), the official journal of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS).
The study, “Comparing safety and efficacy of acoustic subcision at two different rapid acoustic pulse rates to improve the appearance of cellulite,” was led by Brian S. Biesman, M.D., F.A.C.S. and Christopher C. Capelli, M.D. It involved 15 female patients receiving the rapid acoustic pulse treatment on both the left and right buttocks and thighs, with the same number of pulses on each side using either a 100 Hz or 50 Hz pulse rate.
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Both 100 Hz and 50 Hz treatments improved cellulite appearance, assessed by blinded independent physician photo review, participant satisfaction ratings and a significant reduction in Cellulite Dimple - At Rest scores. According to Dr. Biesman, while the two rates performed similarly, the study shows that acoustic subcision for cellulite can be performed more efficiently than initially reported while maintaining safety and efficacy, Acoustic subcision is a novel energy-based approach to cellulite treatment, a condition that has been historically difficult to treat.
Biesman is a renowned cosmetic and reconstructive eyelid and facial surgery expert specializing in minimally invasive techniques. He serves as a clinical assistant professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and holds appointments in the divisions of Ophthalmology, Dermatology and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. He is a current member of ASLMS and previously served as vice president, president and laser safety officer of the organization. He has received national awards from ASLMS and has been consistently named one of America's Best Doctors since 2004.
