Acoustic Wave Therapy is a noninvasive treatment for stubborn cellulite that has not been effectively reduced or eliminated through diet and exercise alone. Also called AWT, the procedure uses the vibrations caused by sound waves to stimulate blood flow and collagen production in the affected area of skin. Increased collagen production improves the elasticity of the skin and smooths out the bumps and dimples associated with cellulite.
The acoustic pressure waves are generated either by a pellet inside an air chamber or by electromagnetic force. The device is handheld and applied to the body where needed. Patients may feel an intense vibration when the device is applied, and some swelling and redness may occur, but there is usually no pain associated with the procedure. Several treatment sessions are typically needed to see definite results.
FDA Approval Status for AWT
A device called D-Actor is used to perform the procedure. D-Actor is manufactured by Swiss company Storz Medical AG. D-Actor is a mechanical device; there are no lasers, chemicals, needles or injections involved in the procedure. D-Actor was previously used to increase collagen in joints and muscles. D-Actor is approved by the FDA as a Class I therapeutic vibration massager. It is approved for prescription use only.
