Ultrasound Assessment of Subcutaneous Abdominal Fat Thickness After Treatments With a High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Field Device: A Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND: High-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology is intended for muscle toning, firming, and strengthening. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study is to quantify the effect of HIFEM treatments on subcutaneous fat. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 33 patients participated in the study. Each subject underwent 4 treatments on the abdomen with the HIFEM device. Ultrasound images were obtained measuring the thickness of the subcutaneous fat from 4 standardized measurement points. Ultrasound images were taken before treatment and at 1-month and 3-month follow-up visits. Photographs were captured using both 2D and 3D cameras. Weight measurements were taken, as well as surveys assessing both patient comfort, satisfaction, and adverse events. RESULTS: A significant reduction in the subcutaneous fat thickness across the abdomen was observed, averaging 19.0%/4.47 ± 3.23 mm (p < .01) at 1 month after treatment and 23.3%/5.78 ± 4.07 mm 3 months after treatment. At 1 month, the most significant reduction in subcutaneous fat was measured subumbilically (26.6%/6.25 ± 4.70 mm; p < .01) and epiumbilically (21.6%/5.08 ± 3.69 mm; p < .01). No discomfort was reported, and 91% of study participants were satisfied with their result. CONCLUSION: Based on the ultrasonographic and photographic observations, the authors conclude that the application of an HIFEM field is an effective option for the noninvasive treatment of subcutaneous fat.