What body treatments cover
Body treatments at a med spa are non-surgical services for areas below the face. The common groups are:
- Body contouring devices. Machines that apply cold, heat, radiofrequency or other energy to chosen areas such as the abdomen or thighs.
- Cellulite treatments. Devices, massage-based methods and, at some providers, injections aimed at dimpled skin.
- Lymphatic massage. A gentle, rhythmic manual massage technique.
None of these is surgery. A licensed provider asks about your health and what you want to discuss, and decides what is suitable for you.
What a provider looks at first
Before suggesting a body treatment, a licensed provider usually asks about:
- your health history, including heart, circulation, nerve or skin conditions
- implanted devices such as a pacemaker, and metal implants in the area
- medicines and supplements, including blood thinners
- pregnancy or breastfeeding
- recent surgery in or near the area
- conditions that react to cold, for cooling devices
- hernias or other concerns in the area
These answers decide which devices and methods are an option, if any.
What to wear and bring
For a body treatment consultation, wear comfortable clothing that lets you show the area easily. Bring:
- photo ID
- a list of medicines and supplements
- notes on health conditions and any implants
- dates of any recent surgery
- your questions, written down
If you have had body treatments before, note what they were and when. If a doctor has told you anything relevant, such as a reason to avoid certain devices, bring that too. A licensed provider decides what is suitable.
Questions about body treatments
Who should skip body contouring?
A licensed provider decides that. Common reasons to wait or skip a device include pregnancy, recent surgery in the area, a hernia, some implanted devices, and conditions that react to cold. Bring your full health history and medicine list to the consultation.
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.
What if I have pain or swelling afterward?
Follow the aftercare instructions and contact the provider who treated you. For severe pain, swelling that keeps growing, signs of infection or anything that worries you, see a doctor. This site is not a clinic and cannot give medical advice.
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