Body Contouring FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions:
How does it work? The Accent RF device applies radio waves through the hand-piece. The device is held directly onto your skin, while the radio waves induce electrical current in the tissue. This current goes through blood and muscle with no effect at all. However, fat and collagen resist the flow, and this creates heat which shrinks fat cells and tightens up collagen. At the same time, collagen production rises and blood flow is boosted.*
What areas can be treated? The most common treatment areas include the following: upper and lower abdomen, saddlebags, love handles, back of legs, neck and face.
How long will it take to see results? For optimal results, we recommend a series of 8 treatments, spaced at 1 week apart for the body, and a series of 6 treatments, spaced at 2 weeks apart for the face. With the Accent, about 50% of people can see a change after the third session. Results might be noticeable within two weeks of the first treatment, but this varies from person to person, and will continue to improve over the next 6 months. *Results may vary. There is no guarantee of specific results.
Who is a good candidate for body contouring? The ideal candidate is at or close to his or her ideal body weight, eats well, and is active. As a general guideline, we will treat people up to, and occasionally beyond, 40 pounds over their ideal weight.
People with pacemakers cannot be treated with the Accent. The induced electrical current can shut down the pacemaker. In people with implanted metals such as plates and rods, the Accent can induce electrical current in the metal. This is not harmful, but it could be painful.
How are treatments done? The Accent requires no preparation. A light coating of mineral oil is applied to the skin. The Accent hand piece is applied to the skin. The technician starts to move the hand piece around in lines and circles over the area to be treated and energy is applied for about 30 seconds while the movement continues. During this time a gentle warming sensation will begin. The temperature is measured by a laser thermometer after each thirty second period. When the target temperature is reached (10-15 degrees above normal skin temperature), several more thirty second passes are made over the area. It takes about 30 minutes to cover an area about the size of two handprints. Love handles would take about 30 minutes. Tummies would take 30-60 minutes to treat.
What can I expect following therapy? Your skin will be red for an hour or two, and that’s all. Imagine putting a hot water bottle on your tummy for a while. It will cause redness that will resolve quite quickly. There is no specific after-care, but you are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
How long does it last? Results are said to last anywhere from 6 months, up to 2 years for facial treatments according to the manufacturer. However, ongoing maintenance may be required for best results.
For body contouring applications, the improvement in skin quality is said to be lasting, similar to the facial tightening results; however, keeping the body contours in check is said to be subject to a person’s diet, calorie intake, exercise and lifestyle. We may recommend follow-up treatments to best maintain and improve your body’s appearance.
What can I do to help the process? To prepare and receive the best results possible, you are asked to drink a minimum of 2 litres of water a day. Starting 2 days prior to your treatment, and continuing this amount at least 2 days after your treatment. Staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also important.
Cancellation Policy: We require a 48 hour notice for cancellation of your consultation or treatment, in order to fill the appointment time. If sufficient notice is not given, the full value of the treatment will be charged, with the minimum charge being $100 for Accent treatments.