Questions about non-surgical body contouring?

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.

Lymphatic massage: what a provider considers

Lymphatic massage is gentle, and a provider still asks questions first. They will want to know about heart conditions, kidney conditions, blood clots or a history of them, active infections, and any recent surgery. If you have swelling in an area, they may ask whether a doctor has checked it.

Ask who performs the massage and what training they have, how long a visit takes, and how often people usually come back. If you have a diagnosed condition such as lymphedema, ask whether your doctor should be involved. A licensed provider decides what is suitable.

Getting ready for a body treatment consultation

A few notes make a body treatment consultation more useful:

• the area or areas you want to ask about
• your health conditions, especially heart, circulation, nerve or skin conditions
• implanted devices or metal implants
• medicines and supplements, including blood thinners
• recent surgery, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• any past body treatments and how you found them

Bring the notes, photo ID and your questions. A licensed provider uses them to decide what is suitable.

Questions about body treatments

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