Lymphatic massage, contouring and cellulite care
The three most common body treatments work in very different ways. Lymphatic massage is hands-on, using light, slow strokes over the skin in a set direction. Body contouring uses a device with an applicator that delivers cold, heat or another form of energy to an area for a timed period. Cellulite treatments vary the most, from devices to manual techniques to, at some providers, injections.
Because they differ so much, the questions differ too. Ask what the method is, who performs it, how many visits are common and what aftercare involves. A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you.
Things a provider may rule out for now
Sometimes a provider decides a body treatment should wait or is off the table. Common reasons include:
- pregnancy or breastfeeding
- recent surgery in the area
- a hernia or unexplained lump in the area
- a pacemaker or implanted device, for some technologies
- skin infection, rash or open wound
- a condition that reacts to cold, for cooling devices
If you hear a no, ask what the reason is and whether a doctor should take a look. That is part of a careful consultation.
Write down what you want to ask
Before a body treatment consultation, spend a few minutes writing down what you want to ask about. Name the area, say how long it has been on your mind, and note whether you have a specific treatment in mind or want to hear options.
Then add your health basics: conditions, implants, medicines, recent surgery, and pregnancy or breastfeeding. Finish with your questions, such as how many visits people usually have and what aftercare involves.
When you send a consultation request, a line about the area is enough. Save the rest for the consultation.
Questions about body treatments
What counts as a body treatment?
At a med spa, body treatments usually mean non-surgical services such as body contouring devices, cellulite treatments and lymphatic massage. Contouring devices apply cold, heat or other energy to chosen areas. Lymphatic massage is a gentle manual technique. A licensed provider explains what they offer.
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.
Ask your questions first. A local provider can contact you by phone, text or email.
Ask a providerMore consultation topics
Skin care treatments
General notes on facials, peels and microneedling, and the questions worth asking before you try one.
Injectables consultation
Start with a conversation. Injectables are given by licensed providers where state law allows.
Laser hair removal
Send a request to talk about laser hair removal with a provider near you before anything is planned.