J Cosmet Med.  2022 Jun;6(1):34-39. 10.25056/JCM.2022.6.1.34.

Clinical responses of subcutaneous abdominal fat and rectus abdominis muscle thicknesses following treatment with a high-intensity focused electromagnetic field device

• Wong TH

• KMID: 2561132
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.25056/JCM.2022.6.1.34

Abstract

Background
High-intensity focused electromagnetic waves (HIFEM) can achieve optimal body contours by training muscle mass, strength, and toning, as well as fat reduction.
Objective
This study aimed to define the effect of HIFEM devices on muscle training and subcutaneous fat reduction.
Methods
This is the first-time report of a clinical case series by using a modified protocol. The study was a single-centre evaluation in Hong Kong, China, involving 13 participants, of whom nine were female. Each subject underwent six treatments, 1-2 times a week for 3–6 weeks, and each treatment session lasted for 60 minutes. Body contours were recorded using 2D and 3D high-resolution images. Ultrasonography was performed for standardized areas in each participant. The above assessments were performed at the first and last treatment visits, and then at the 1- and 3-month follow-up visits. Data were quantified and compared. The main outcomes were percentage improvement, satisfaction levels, and adverse events.
Results
A significant improvement in muscle thickness of the rectus abdominis with a corresponding decrease in subcutaneous fat thickness was demonstrated in the subjects. The mean decrease of subcutaneous fat was 0.31 cm (19.9%), 0.40 cm (25.6%), and 0.53 cm (34.0%) at the last visit, 1 month after the treatment, and 3 months after the treatment, respectively (p=0.017, p=0.014, and p<0.001, respectively). The rectus abdominis demonstrated a mean increase of 0.29 cm (27.8%), 0.28 cm (26.2%), and 0.28 cm (26.2%) at the last visit, 1 month after the treatment, and 3 months after the treatment, respectively (p=0.001, p=0.006, and p<0.001, respectively). No significant discomfort was reported by the subjects, and 100% of the subjects were satisfied with their results.
Conclusion
HIFEM is an effective method for training the rectus abdominis and reducing fat in the abdomen, offering participant satisfaction, comfort, and sustainability.

Keyword

body contouring; body contouring; exercise; fat reduction; high-intensity focused electromagnetic waves; muscle mass training