Methods and systems for subcutaneous treatments

Abstract

Methods for focused remodeling and downsizing the volume of subcutaneous lipid-rich cells, body contouring, and tightening skin tissue, using controlled heating of the targeted areas on the body. The electromagnetic energy heats the subcutaneous tissues which provides the desired effect. The electromagnetic energy is applied via an applicator without touching the skin. A spacer of insulating or dielectric material may be provided between the applicator and the skin.

1 . A method for treating subcutaneous tissue of a patient, comprising:
 placing a spacer pad comprising a dielectric material onto the skin of the patient;   positioning an applicator onto the spacer pad, with no part of the applicator in contact with the skin of the patient;   transmitting radio frequency waves from the applicator through the spacer pad and into subcutaneous tissue of the patient;   heating the subcutaneous tissue via the radio frequency waves; and   downsizing the subcutaneous tissue via the heating.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  with the applicator having a surface area of at least 15 cm2. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1  further including cooling the patient's skin. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the spacer pad is 0.5 to 1 cm thick. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the applicator is spaced apart from the patient's skin by at least 1 cm. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1  with the spacer pad having a frame. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1  with the spacer pad having a surface area greater than the applicator. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 8  wherein the spacer pad comprises a dielectric cloth or foam material. 
     
     
         9 . A method for treating subcutaneous tissue of a patient, comprising:
 placing a spacer pad comprising a dielectric material onto the skin of the patient;   positioning an applicator having a surface area of at least 15 cm 2  onto the spacer pad, with no part of the applicator in contact with the skin of the patient and the spacer pad having a surface area greater than the applicator;   transmitting radio frequency waves from the applicator through the spacer pad and into subcutaneous tissue of the patient;   heating the subcutaneous tissue via the radio frequency waves;   with the heating remodeling and/or downsizing the volume of lipid-rich cells in the subcutaneous tissue.   
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 9  wherein the spacer pad comprises a dielectric cloth or foam material. 
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 9  with the applicator spaced apart from the skin of the patient by at least 1 cm. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 9  wherein no cooling of the patient's skin is performed.