Does every ultrasound device produce cavitation?

No. Only low-frequency ultrasound under about 640 kHz produces meaningful cavitation; many therapeutic (1 MHz) and cosmetic (3 MHz) devices have minimal effect.

What ultrasound frequency causes cavitation?

Frequencies below approximately 640 kHz are required for a meaningful cavitation effect on fat tissue.

How many treatments are needed for measurable fat reduction?

About 10-14 treatments can reduce circumference by roughly 2-3 cm on the abdomen, hips or thighs.

Can inexpensive 1 MHz or 3 MHz ultrasound devices reduce fat effectively?

No. Typical low-cost therapeutic (1 MHz) or cosmetic (3 MHz) devices produce little cavitation and are not effective for fat reduction.

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Does every ultrasound have a cavitation effect?

Cavitation is one effect of ultrasound treatment, primarily used for cosmetic purposes. Low-frequency ultrasound beams "bombard" fat cells, causing the cell membrane to rupture and the fat to be released. With 10–14 treatments you can lose about 2–3 cm in circumference on the abdomen, hips, thighs, etc. It should be noted, however, that only ultrasound frequencies below 640 kHz have a meaningful cavitation effect.

If you believe that the therapeutic (1 MHz) or the cosmetic (3 MHz) devices available for a few tens of thousands are also suitable for fat reduction (as many places advertise), you'll be disappointed.

They do have a bit of a cavitation effect, but about as much as a Trabant is suitable for car racing.

I talk about this in the ninth episode of my video series on therapeutic ultrasound treatment.

You can watch the previous episode (The cosmetic application of ultrasound) by clicking here.

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