Effects of microwave technology on the subcutaneous abdominal fat and anthropometric indices of overweight adults: A clinical trial

Abstract

Background and Objective: Non-invasive body contouring devices have fewer side effects and are the new techniques for the treatment of obesity. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of microwave technology on the abdominal obesity and anthropometric indices of overweight adults. Materials and Methods: This clinical trial was conducted on 53 overweight adults aged 18-65 years who referred to Behbood Clinic in Tehran, Iran. The participants were exposed to microwave technology (radiofrequency: 2.5 GHz) based on a standard treatment protocol at three intervals (0, 20, and 40 days). Abdominal obesity, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat mass, and fat thickness were measured at the beginning and 20, 40, and 60 days after the study. In addition, three-day dietary records were collected at intervals. Results:In total, 77.6% of the subjects were female and 22.4% were male. The mean calorie intake of the participants was 2245.14 ± 1981.16 kcal/day. Microwave shock significantly reduced fat thickness in four abdominal areas (p < 0.001). Moreover, waist circumference (p < 0.001) and total fat thickness of the abdomen decreased (p = 0.003 and p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusion:According to the results, microwave technology and radiofrequency could effectively reduce anthropometric indices. In general, the reduction of these indicators and weight may be more significant in men compared to women.

Microwave Therapy for Cellulite: An Effective Non-Invasive Treatment

“…This process leads to a complete metabolic adipolysis compatible with subcutaneous adipose tissues reduction and a consequent circumference diminution. Additionally, cellulite is by the solubilization of collagen septae caused by subcutaneous adipose tissue heating, which causes dermal collagen fibers' contraction and improves external skin architecture [23,24].…”

Three‐dimensional analysis for measuring volumetric changes after a noninvasive treatment performed with a new system delivering microwave energy for unwanted abdominal fat reduction

“…During this phase, a complete macrophage-induced metabolic adipolysis compatible with the reduction of subcutaneous adipose tissues is observed. [23][24][25]4 MWs technology appears to generate an irreversible adipocyte cytoplasmic and membrane damage. 8 Activated macrophages are responsible for the removal of adipocytes with consequent of subcutaneous adipose tissue and circumference reduction, as reported in the current research.…”

“…The thermal energy produced by this process promotes the adipocytes heating without affecting the dermo‐epidermal layers. During this phase, a complete macrophage‐induced metabolic adipolysis compatible with the reduction of subcutaneous adipose tissues is observed 23–25,4 . MWs technology appears to generate an irreversible adipocyte cytoplasmic and membrane damage 8 .…”

Successful treatment of submental fat using a non‐focused pulsed ultrasound

“…6 Successful non-invasive reduction of adipose tissue by ultrasound technology has been widely reported and is associated with significantly fewer adverse events than liposuction and cryolipolysis. [21][22][23] Although high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has historically been used, 22 non-focused ultrasound has been shown to reduce fat in animal models 24 and human subjects 18 and affects subcutaneous adipose tissue without destroying the epidermis, dermis, or subcutaneous muscles and nerves. 14 Furthermore, HIFU has been associated with significant side effects, including edema, erythema, dysesthesia, and ecchymosis, 25,26 none of which have been observed using low-energy ultrasound.…”