What a body treatment visit involves
Body treatment visits differ by method, though most follow a pattern:
- A consultation about your health, medicines and the area.
- A look at the area, and sometimes measurements or photos for your record.
- The treatment itself: an applicator or handpiece placed on the skin, or a massage done by hand.
- Aftercare instructions, such as staying hydrated or what sensations to expect.
- A plan for any further visits, if you choose to go ahead.
A licensed provider decides what is suitable, and you can take time to think before agreeing to anything.
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
What is lymphatic massage?
It is a gentle, hands-on massage technique using light, slow strokes in a set pattern. A provider will ask about heart, kidney and blood clot history, infections and recent surgery first. If you have a diagnosed condition such as lymphedema, ask whether your doctor should be involved.
How many visits do body treatments take?
It depends on the method, the area and the person. Many body treatments are planned as a series, and the number varies. A licensed provider can tell you what is typical for a given method after a consultation, without promising a set number.
What are cellulite treatments?
They are a mixed group. Some use devices with radiofrequency, sound waves or suction. Some are hands-on techniques. Some providers offer injectable options, which are given by licensed providers where state law allows. Ask what method a provider uses and how it works in general terms.
A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you. Send a request to begin that conversation.
Request a consultMore consultation topics
Facials and peels
Send a request to talk about skin treatments such as facials, peels or microneedling with a provider near you.
Injectables
Wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers, given by licensed providers where state law allows. Ask a local provider about them.
Laser hair removal
Send a request to talk about laser hair removal with a provider near you before anything is planned.