Those shopping for a more youthful look with tighter skin and fewer wrinkles, or a more toned and sculpted body with less cellulite, may follow the example of thousands of individuals opting to spend less on invasive surgeries and more on painless, safe and non-invasive treatments that use the latest in technology, such as the ultrasonic cavitation wave.

The basis of the ultrasound cavitation wave is a radio frequency that stimulates and vibrates adipose (fat) cells at a high rate, causing tiny air molecules to form inside them. As these bubbles rupture the fat cell by forcing their way out, the fat is released and metabolized through the liver and other natural metabolic processes. The same ultrasound wave that passes through the skin’s surface also stimulates and oxygenates surface cells, causing a firming and tightening of the skin. Cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Cavi-Lipo also improves cellulite and lymphatic drainage.

“Although cavitation is not a method for weight loss, you can think of it as non-invasive ultrasonic liposuction, because it produces the same results without cutting into the skin,” says Andrea Sorrenti, who recently added the treatment to her Andrea’s Organic Hair Studio & Day Spa menu.

During the six to 10 recommended treatments, which are spaced three days apart for the first three sessions, a low-calorie diet that includes protein with each meal is suggested, along with a minimum of one glass of warm water before and after the session. For at least three days after each session, individuals should drink plenty of water and include daily aerobic activities such as a brisk walk, biking or other cardio workouts to continue stimulating lymphatic activity, which aids in the elimination of the fat.

After the completion of the first three sessions, the others are scheduled once a week. Upon completion of all sessions, maintenance treatments consist of one session each month for four months, followed by one treatment every four months. “A lymph-draining massage is also encouraged in addition to the treatments, in order to improve the circulation and lymphatic system, which helps to drain fluids,” explains Ron Repice, DC, founder of Lipo-Light Naples.

“Targeted areas for Cavi-Lipo treatments are those with localized fat, such as thighs, abdomen, arms and buttocks, where diet and exercise alone have not been effective. There is no real limitation as to areas of the body,” advises Debra Florio, owner of Contour Body Works Massage Therapy and Day Spa, in Fort Myers.

“Exilis Elite uses radio frequencies and ultrasound vibrations to liquefy fat and cellulite on hips, abdomen, thighs and knees. It also stimulates the production of collagen. A new, special head for the machine, which is designed specifically for the face and neck, is a good alternative to a surgical facelift,” advises Shelle Misiorowski, owner of Trim and Tone Spa, in Naples.

Andrea’s Organic Hair Studio & Day Spa, 6714 Lone Oak Blvd., Naples, 239-514-4707, NaplesOrganicHairStudio.com.

Contour Body Works Massage Therapy and Day Spa, 26381 S. Tamiami Tr., Ste. 36, Bonita Springs, 239-489-3063; 16120 San Carlos Blvd., Ste. 5, Ft. Myers, 239-489-3063; 2726 Tamiami Tr., Ste. C, Port Charlotte, 941-629-7600.

Lipo-Light Naples, 1575 Pine Ridge Rd., Ste. 6, Naples, 239-530-3040, LipoLightNaples.com.

Trim and Tone Spa, 1201 Piper Blvd., Ste. 20, Naples, 239-596-5522, TrimAndToneSpa.com.