How body treatments differ from surgery and weight loss
Body treatments at a med spa are non-surgical. There are no incisions and no general anesthesia. Providers generally describe them as a separate category from surgery and from weight loss programs, and they are usually discussed for specific areas of the body.
That difference is worth understanding before you ask about one. A licensed provider can explain which body treatments they offer, how each works in general terms, and who tends to be suitable. They can also tell you when a doctor or surgeon is the right person to see instead.
What a provider looks at first
Before suggesting a body treatment, a licensed provider usually asks about:
- your health history, including heart, circulation, nerve or skin conditions
- implanted devices such as a pacemaker, and metal implants in the area
- medicines and supplements, including blood thinners
- pregnancy or breastfeeding
- recent surgery in or near the area
- conditions that react to cold, for cooling devices
- hernias or other concerns in the area
These answers decide which devices and methods are an option, if any.
Three things to know before you go
Before a body treatment consultation, be ready with three things.
The area. Where it is, and what you want to ask about it.
Your health. Conditions, implants, medicines, supplements, recent surgery, pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Your history. Any past body treatments, massages or devices, and how you found them.
Write them down so nothing gets missed. A licensed provider uses them to decide which method, if any, is suitable, and may suggest seeing a doctor first if something needs checking.
Questions about body treatments
What is lymphatic massage?
It is a gentle, hands-on massage technique using light, slow strokes in a set pattern. A provider will ask about heart, kidney and blood clot history, infections and recent surgery first. If you have a diagnosed condition such as lymphedema, ask whether your doctor should be involved.
How many visits do body treatments take?
It depends on the method, the area and the person. Many body treatments are planned as a series, and the number varies. A licensed provider can tell you what is typical for a given method after a consultation, without promising a set number.
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.
Want to know if a treatment may suit you? Request a consultation with a provider near you.
Request a consultationMore consultation topics
Skin treatment consults
Curious about a facial or a peel? A provider can look at your skin and explain the options at a consultation.
Injectables consults
A licensed provider can talk through wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers with you and decide what is suitable.
Laser hair removal
Send a request to talk about laser hair removal with a provider near you before anything is planned.