Photothermal Therapy

There are two novel reported mechanisms that have demonstrated the ability to clinically modify the skin’s connective tissue: laser and pulsed light (optical energy) and radiofre­quency. While these methods differ primarily in the way they generate heat within the adipose tissue, they both are able to produce temperatures (65—75oC) high enough to cause connective tissue remodeling and reduction [21] (Table16.3).These two new forms of ther­apy have been combined with other modalities for reducing cellulite and have also been used on their own. Photothermal therapies are considered the future tools of aesthetic der­matology. The most efficacious and commonly used devices are discussed here.