WO2011021184A1 - Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis. - Google Patents

Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis. Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2011021184A1
WO2011021184A1 PCT/IL2010/000656 IL2010000656W WO2011021184A1 WO 2011021184 A1 WO2011021184 A1 WO 2011021184A1 IL 2010000656 W IL2010000656 W IL 2010000656W WO 2011021184 A1 WO2011021184 A1 WO 2011021184A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
skin
air pressure
chambers
heating energy
operative
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IL2010/000656
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2011021184A4 (en
Inventor
Avner Rosenberg
Original Assignee
Syneron Medical Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority to CN2010800370615A priority Critical patent/CN102711706A/en
Priority to BR112012002204A priority patent/BR112012002204A2/en
Priority to AU2010286035A priority patent/AU2010286035A1/en
Priority to KR1020127004087A priority patent/KR101687854B1/en
Priority to EP10809627.2A priority patent/EP2467116A4/en
Priority to JP2012525249A priority patent/JP5778151B2/en
Application filed by Syneron Medical Ltd. filed Critical Syneron Medical Ltd.
Priority to MX2012002042A priority patent/MX2012002042A/en
Priority to US13/389,799 priority patent/US9295607B2/en
Publication of WO2011021184A1 publication Critical patent/WO2011021184A1/en
Publication of WO2011021184A4 publication Critical patent/WO2011021184A4/en
Priority to IL217738A priority patent/IL217738A/en
Priority to US14/834,304 priority patent/US20160228322A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H9/00—Pneumatic or hydraulic massage
    • A61H9/005—Pneumatic massage
    • A61H9/0057—Suction
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H7/00—Devices for suction-kneading massage; Devices for massaging the skin by rubbing or brushing not otherwise provided for
    • A61H7/002—Devices for suction-kneading massage; Devices for massaging the skin by rubbing or brushing not otherwise provided for by rubbing or brushing
    • A61H7/003—Hand-held or hand-driven devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H7/00—Devices for suction-kneading massage; Devices for massaging the skin by rubbing or brushing not otherwise provided for
    • A61H7/007—Kneading
    • A61H7/008—Suction kneading
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/02—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes heated or cooled
    • A61H2201/0207—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes heated or cooled heated
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/10—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes with further special therapeutic means, e.g. electrotherapy, magneto therapy or radiation therapy, chromo therapy, infrared or ultraviolet therapy
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
    • A61H2201/5023—Interfaces to the user
    • A61H2201/5035—Several programs selectable
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2207/00—Anti-cellulite devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
    • A61H23/0218—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with alternating magnetic fields producing a translating or oscillating movement
    • A61H23/0236—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with alternating magnetic fields producing a translating or oscillating movement using sonic waves, e.g. using loudspeakers

Definitions

  • the method and apparatus relate to the field of aesthetic body shaping devices and more specifically to methods and apparatuses for aesthetic massage treatment of human skin and sub-dermis.
  • Cellulite affects around 85-90% of post-pubertal females and some men of all races and is characterized by a displeasing dimpled appearance of the skin. It occurs mainly around the arms, hips, thighs, and buttocks.
  • septae Collagen fibrous walls in the sub-dermal fat layer, named septae. connect the sub-dermal fat tissue to the skin. Cellulite occurs when sub-dermal fat cells are pushed upwards, and the septae pushed downwards pulling the attached skin with them. As a result, the septae urge the fat cells deposited therebetween into small bulges protruding from the surface of the skin and resulting in a characteristic dimpled, pitted appearance of the skin surface.
  • Numerous therapies are used in the treatment of cellulite which include physical and mechanical methods as well as the use of pharmacological agents.
  • the physical and mechanical methods include iontophoresis, light, ultrasound, thermotherapy, pressotherapy (pneumatic massaging in the direction of the circulation), lymphatic drainage (massage technique to stimulate lymphatic flow), clectrolipophoresis (application of a low frequency electric current) and high frequency electrical current such as RF.
  • Aesthetic treatments of cellulite combining the application of sub-atmospheric pressure (a vacuum) to a segment of skin, urging it into a chamber and skin massage, with or without the application of heat energy, are well documented in the art.
  • Moving mechanical elements and actuators in such applicators increases their complexity, required maintenance and cost. Moving mechanical elements may also interfere with the various types of heating energy delivery surfaces typically employed by such applicators.
  • MR imaging 3D reconstruction of the collagen fibrous septae network in the skin tissue demonstrates a high percentage of septae oriented in a direction perpendicular to the skin surface in women with cellulite.
  • the massage elements described in the art cause the skin tissue to move in and out of a single vacuum chamber, resulting in displacement of the skin tissue in a direction vertical to the skin surface and in parallel to the fibrous septae orientation. Actuation of the skin tissue parallel to the surface thereof and perpendicular to the collagen fibrous septae orientation has been shown to be more effective in breaking down the fibrous septae and reducing the ill-effects of cellulite.
  • methods in the art couple heating energy treatment to the skin massage treatment.
  • the applied energy source (For example, ultrasound) employed by these methods is typically positioned over skin areas that are not adhered to a vacuum chamber or a deformable membrane and therefore are not being concurrently massaged.
  • Application of energy to non-massaged skin areas negates the synergistic effect produced by the concurrent combination of skin massage and energy application.
  • the present method and apparatus effect vacuum and massage to human skin tissue for reduction of displeasing effects of cellulite.
  • the method and apparatus are based on coupling an applicator accommodating one or more vacuum chambers sharing one or more common walls therebetween to the surface of the skin and alternately reducing the air pressure in the vacuum chambers to affect vacuum suction to the skin, alternately drawing adjacent segments of skin into the vacuum chambers.
  • the alternating suction effect generates enhanced massaging back and forth movement of the skin tissue against the common wall between adjacent vacuum chambers, parallel to the skin surface and perpendicular to the collagen fibrous septae orientation. This action is achieved using vacuum chambers alone without the use of mechanical actuators and/or any moving parts.
  • the method and apparatus also couple heating energy to the application of vacuum and massage.
  • heating energy may be one or more forms selected from a group of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresisand and microwaves and delivered by heating energy delivery surfaces.
  • the heating energy delivery surfaces may be located in one or more locations including inside the vacuum chambers, between the vacuum chambers or any combination thereof.
  • the vacuum chamber walls, or segments thereof are made of conductive material and are operative to deliver RF heating energy.
  • the common wall between adjacent vacuum chambers may be made of an electrically conductive material and function, as a whole, as an RF electrode.
  • one or more RF electrodes are located on the inner face of one or more walls of adjacent vacuum chambers. Additional one or more RF electrodes are located on either orJroth faces of the common wall therebetween. Alternatively and additionally, the RF electrodes may extend beyond the inner face of the vacuum chamber walls to apply heating energy to adjacent skin tissue about to be drawn into the vacuum chambers. [0017J RF energy delivery may be controlled by a machine controller in only one vacuum chamber or more than one vacuum chambers, concurrently, in an alternating fashion or in any other sequence according to a predetermined treatment protocol.
  • the machine control is operative to control the alternating sequence of vacuum application in adjacent vacuum chambers as well as the type of air pressure so that to effect an asymmetric massaging movement of the skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin so as to displace the applicator along the surface of the skin.
  • Exemplary embodiments of the method and apparatus may also be employed in other aesthetic skin tissue treatments such as sub-dermal fat cells breakdown lessening the amount of sub-dermal fat, tightening loose skin, tightening and firming body surface, reducing wrinkles in the skin and collagen remodeling.
  • Skin tissue and “Skin” are used interchangeably in the present disclosure and mean the superficial layer of skin including the epidermis and dermis and all dermal structures such as sensory nerve endings, blood vessels, sweat glands, etc.
  • Subject-Dermis as used in the present disclosure means the skin layer below the dermis including tissues such as fat and collagen fibrous septae.
  • FIG. 1 is a simplified cross-sectional view of an applicator for treatment of human skin and sub-dermis in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present method and apparatus.
  • Figures 2A, 2B, 2C & 2D are simplified illustrations of various alternative configurations of the energy delivery surfaces of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is a simplified illustration of the operation of the applicator of Figure 1 in massaging the skin tissue in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
  • Figure 4 is a simplified illustration of the operation of the applicator of Figure 1 effecting the displacement thereof in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
  • Figure 5 is a simplified illustration of the apparatus of Fig. 1 arranged in a three-chamber arrangement.
  • Figure 6 is a simplified illustration of the apparatus of Fig. I further including a roller in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
  • Figure 7 is a simplified illustration of the apparatus of Fig. 1 further including a flexible divider between adjacent vacuum chambers in accordance with further another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an applicator 100 having a housing 102 accommodating one or more vacuum chambers.
  • Figure 1 illustrates two vacuum chambers 104.
  • Chambers 104 are defined by the inner surfaces of walls 106 and 108, closed portion 1 10 and the surface of skin tissue 1 16.
  • Sealing edges 1 14 of walls 106 may be flared to increase contact area with the surface of skin tissue 1 16 and provide a better seal therewith.
  • sealing edge 1 14 of wall 108 may be coated with a high friction coating to enhance massaging of skin tissue 1 16 being urged thereagainst.
  • the vacuum chamber may be of the type disclosed in assignee ' s US Patent Application assigned serial number 12/503,834 the disclosures of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
  • One or more sources of one or more air pressure types selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure communicate with chambers 104.
  • sub-atmospheric air pressure is applied to chambers 104 through a conduit 122 and a bore 120 in closed portion 1 10 thus creating a vacuum within chambers 104.
  • Chambers 104 are also vented to the surrounding ambient air through conduit 126.
  • positive air pressure may be delivered through conduit 126 or through another conduit (not shown).
  • valve 124 which may be any standard single-way or multiple way valve as known in the art.
  • Vacuum values within vacuum chambers 104 may be within the range of 0.05Bar to I Bar below ambient pressure. Typically, the vacuum values are within the range of 0.1 Bar to 0.5Bar below ambient pressure.
  • a machine controller (not shown) connected to each selector valve 124 by electrical conductors 128 selects the desired type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof, for each vacuum chamber 104 individually, from a multiplicity of predetermined treatment program protocols. For example, alternating the application of sub-atmospheric pressure in each of two adjacent vacuum chambers 104 creates alternating suction forces on adjacent areas of treated skin tissue 1 16, urging skin tissue 1 16 to move in and out of the corresponding vacuum chambers 104. Suction of skin tissue 1 16 into a vacuum chamber 104 creates a skin protrusion (as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4) drawing adjacent skin tissue into the chamber.
  • heating energy may be coupled to skin tissue 1 16 concurrently with the application ot vacuum and massage.
  • Such heating energy may be one or more heating energy forms selected from a group consisting of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis. iontophoresis and microwaves. Different forms of energy may be concurrently applied in each chamber.
  • RF energy is employed so that energy is delivered into skin tissue to heat the skin and sub-dermal tissues inside, and adjacent to, the vacuum chambers that are concurrently being massaged. This produces a synergistic effect and enhances the breakdown of the dermal collagen fibrous septae.
  • RF frequency is in the range from 50KHz to 200MHz. Typically.
  • RF frequency is from 100KHz to 10 MHz or from I OOKHZ to 100MHz or. alternatively, from 300KHz to 3MHz.
  • RF power is in the range from 0.5 W to 300W. Typically, the range of the RF power is from 1 W to 200W or from 1 OW to 100W.
  • the range of ultrasound energy frequency is from 100kHz to
  • the range of ultrasound energy frequency is from 50OkHz to
  • the range of power density is 0.1 W/cm2 up to 5W/cm2.
  • FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are simplified illustrations of various alternative configurations of the energy delivery surfaces of the apparatus of Fig. 1.
  • heating energy delivery surfaces 202 are located on the inner face of walls 206 of adjacent vacuum chambers and energy delivery surfaces 214 are located on both faces of the common wall 208 therebetween.
  • heating energy delivery surfaces 202 extend beyond the inner face of the vacuum chamber walls 206, of which sealing edges 214 are flared outwardly to provide extended heating energy delivery surfaces and apply heating energy not only to tissues within vacuum chambers 204, but to adjacent skin tissue 216 as well about to be drawn into the vacuum chambers.
  • heating energy delivery surfaces 202 are located on the inner face of walls 206, which are made of an electrically insulating material.
  • Wall 208 is made of a conductive material, as indicated in Figure 2C by a diagonal- lincs-fill, and serves, as a whole, as an RF electrode.
  • Walls 206 and 208 are electrically conductive, in which case walls 206 and 208, as a whole, serve as RF electrodes.
  • the walls bordering walls 206 and 208 (not shown) are made of an electrically insulating material.
  • segments of walls 206 and 208 may be electrically conductive while others may be electrically insulated.
  • wall 208, or energy delivery surface 202 thereon is electrically connected to pole 230 of an RF energy source through conductor 232.
  • a pole 234 of the RF energy source is electrically connected to one or more walls 206, or energy delivery surfaces 202 thereon, through conductors 236.
  • RF energy delivery from the RF energy source to walls 206 and 208. or energy delivery surface 202 thereon, is controlled by switch 238.
  • apparatus 100 may employ any one or combination of the above configurations.
  • FIGS 3A, 3B, 3C & 3D illustrate stages of the operation of applicator 100 of Figure 1 in massaging the skin tissue 316 and sub- dermis 320, including collagen fibrous septae, which are generally in parallel to the surface of skin 316, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
  • FIG. 3A sub-atmospheric pressure is applied in vacuum chamber 304, as indicated by arrow 340, drawing skin tissue 316 and sub-dermis 320 into chamber 304 creating skin protrusion 318.
  • the suction of skin tissue 316 and sub-dermis 320 into vacuum chamber 304 draws adjacent skin tissue to converge, parallel to the surface of skin tissue 316, towards and into vacuum chamber 304 as depicted by arrows designated by reference numeral 350.
  • This movement urges skin tissue 316 and sub-dermis 320 against sealing edges 314 of walls 306 and 308 massaging skin tissue 316 and breaking down collagen fiber septae in sub-dermis 320, which are perpendicular in orientation to the direction of movement of skin tissue 316.
  • protrusion 318 fills vacuum chamber 304, suction is maintained by sub-atmospheric pressure in chamber 304, as indicated by arrow 342, holding in place protrusion 318.
  • chamber 304 is vented, increasing the pressure inside the chamber to ambient atmospheric pressure and releasing the suction holding in place protrusion 318 inside chamber 304.
  • Concurrently, sub-atmospheric pressure is applied in vacuum chamber 324, as indicated by arrow 370, sucking skin tissue 316 into chamber 324 creating protrusion 328.
  • Concurrent relief of suction in adjacent chamber 304 releases the tension on the protrusion within the chamber allowing skin tissue 316 to relax, exit the chamber, travel in parallel to the surface of skin 316. as depicted by the arrow here designated by reference numeral 352, and be drawn into the adjacent chamber 324 in which suction is concurrently being applied.
  • positive air pressure may be pumped into chamber 304, as indicated by arrow 360, forcing protrusion 318 out of vacuum chamber 304, strongly urging skin tissue 316 against sealing edge 314 of wall 308 and further enhancing the shearing forces on the collagen fibrous septae in the sub-dermis 320.
  • protrusion 328 fills vacuum chamber 324, sub-atmospheric pressure is maintained in chambers 324, as indicated by arrow 380, holding in place protrusion 328 and all movement of skin tissue is stopped.
  • this cycle may be repeated or reversed, with or without concurrent energy treatment application, in accordance with a predetermined treatment program protocol to effect enhanced back and forth symmetrical massaging movement of the skin tissue 316 against sealing edge 314 of common wall 308 in parallel to the surface skin tissue 316, further breaking down the collagen fibrous septae in the sub-dermis.
  • FIG. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D & 4F illustrate the • sequence of the application of air pressure to adjacent vacuum chambers effecting asymmetrical skin movement and displacement of the applicator 100 of Figure 1 along the surface of the skin 416 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
  • FIG. 4A sub-atmospheric pressure is applied in vacuum chamber 404. as " indicated by arrow 440, sucking skin tissue 416 into chamber 404 and creating protrusion 418. Suction of skin tissue 416 into vacuum chamber 404 draws adjacent skin tissue to symmetrically converge, parallel to the surface of skin tissue 416, towards vacuum chamber 404 as depicted by arrows designated by reference numeral 450. At this stage, there is no directional displacement of applicator 100. [0057] In Figure 4B. skin tissue protrusion 418 fills vacuum chamber 404 and suction in chamber 404 is maintained.
  • This asymmetrical movement of skin tissue 416 also pulls skin protrusion 418, strongly adhered to chamber 404, in a direction opposite to that indicated by arrow 452, effecting directional displacement of applicator 100 in a direction indicated by arrow designated by reference numeral 490.
  • FIG. 4E sub-atmospheric pressure is maintained in chamber 424, holding skin protrusion 428 in place.
  • chamber 404 is vented, increasing the pressure inside the chamber to surrounding ambient air pressure and releasing the vacuum holding protrusion 418 inside chamber 404 in place.
  • positive air pressure is pumped into chamber 404, as indicated by arrow 460, urging skin protrusion 418 out of vacuum chamber 404. This releases the pulling tension on the skin tissue between chambers 404 and 424 and allowing the relaxed skin tissue to stretch asymmetrically in a direction indicated by arrow 454 and further effect directional displacement of applicator 100 in a direction opposite to that indicated by " arrow 454, here indicated by arrow 492.
  • chamber 424 is vented, increasing the pressure inside the chamber to surrounding ambient air pressure and releasing the suction holding protrusion 428 inside chamber 424 in place.
  • positive air pressure is pumped into chamber 424, as indicated by arrow 480, urging skin tissue protrusion 428 out of vacuum chamber 404 and effecting symmetrical movement of skin tissue 416 in a direction indicated by arrows 456.
  • this cycle may be repeated or reversed, with or w ithout concurrent energy treatment application, in accordance with a predetermined treatment program protocol to effect back and forth massaging skin tissue 416 in parallel to the surface thereof, further breaking down the collagen fibrous septae in the sub-dermis 420, which are perpendicular in orientation to the direction of movement of skin tissue 416. Additionally and alternatively, this cycle may be repeated or reversed, with or without concurrent energy treatment application, in accordance with a predetermined treatment program protocol to alternate the application of suction inside adjacent chambers asymmetrically, effecting movement of applicator 100 along the surface of skin tissue 416.
  • FIG. 5 is a simplified illustration of applicator 100 of Fig. I arranged in a three-vacuum chamber arrangement. It will be appreciated that applicator 100 may arranged in plurality of multiple-chamber arrangements including two or more chambers arranged in a row, a grid-like arrangement or arranged in any other suitable geometrical pattern.
  • FIG. 6 is a simplified illustration of applicator 100 of Fig. I in accordance with an exemplary embodiment further including a roller 602 at the sealing edge 614 of common wall 608 between two adjacent vacuum chambers 604 and 624 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
  • Roller 6 ⁇ f reduces friction at the sealing edge 614 of wall 608 and facilitates back and forth displacement of applicator 100 over the surface of skin tissue 616 as indicated by arrow 650.
  • roller 602 may be placed at the sealing edge of any wall, such as 606 and be replaced with any element that facilitates the massaging of skin tissue 616 and displacement of applicator 100 such as a ball, a cylinder, sliders, etc. Additionally and alternatively, roller 602 may be shaped to enhance.massaging of skin tissue 616 being urged thereagainst.
  • FIG. 7 is a simplified illustration of applicator 100 of Fig. 1 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment further including a flexible divider 702 flexibly attached to, or partially embedded in, common wall 708 between adjacent vacuum chambers 704 and 724.
  • Flexible divider 702 may be made of any suitable flexible material, which would allow pivotal back and forth movement of divider 702 as indicated by arrow 750.
  • flexible divider 702 may made of either a flexible or rigid suitable material and pivotally attached to the sealing edge of wall 708.
  • exemplary embodiments of the method and apparatus may be also employed in other aesthetic skin tissue treatments such as sub-dermal fat cells breakdown lessening the amount of sub-dermal fat, tightening loose skin, tightening and firming body surface, reducing wrinkles in the skin and collagen remodeling.

Abstract

An apparatus for massaging of skin and sub-dermis and treating the massaged skin by heat. The apparatus includes housing with two adjacent vacuum chambers sharing a common wall between them and an energy delivery surface. A source of negative pressure communicates with the vacuum chambers and alternates the negative pressure between the chambers to effect back and forth massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of the skin. The energy delivery surface heats the skin in the chambers.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR NON- INVASIVE AESTHETIC TREATMENT OF SKIN AND SUB-DERMlS.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001 ] The method and apparatus relate to the field of aesthetic body shaping devices and more specifically to methods and apparatuses for aesthetic massage treatment of human skin and sub-dermis.
BACKGROUND
[002] Cellulite affects around 85-90% of post-pubertal females and some men of all races and is characterized by a displeasing dimpled appearance of the skin. It occurs mainly around the arms, hips, thighs, and buttocks.
[003J Collagen fibrous walls in the sub-dermal fat layer, named septae. connect the sub-dermal fat tissue to the skin. Cellulite occurs when sub-dermal fat cells are pushed upwards, and the septae pushed downwards pulling the attached skin with them. As a result, the septae urge the fat cells deposited therebetween into small bulges protruding from the surface of the skin and resulting in a characteristic dimpled, pitted appearance of the skin surface.
[004] Numerous therapies are used in the treatment of cellulite which include physical and mechanical methods as well as the use of pharmacological agents. The physical and mechanical methods include iontophoresis, light, ultrasound, thermotherapy, pressotherapy (pneumatic massaging in the direction of the circulation), lymphatic drainage (massage technique to stimulate lymphatic flow), clectrolipophoresis (application of a low frequency electric current) and high frequency electrical current such as RF. [005] Aesthetic treatments of cellulite combining the application of sub-atmospheric pressure (a vacuum) to a segment of skin, urging it into a chamber and skin massage, with or without the application of heat energy, are well documented in the art.
[006] Almost all massage elements described in the art are based on mechanical displacement of a moving part, such as a roller or a pivoting divider. In most cases this mechanical action is driven by an actuator such as a motor. In few cases vacuum is used for manipulation of a mechanical element.
[007] The use of moving mechanical elements and actuators in such applicators increases their complexity, required maintenance and cost. Moving mechanical elements may also interfere with the various types of heating energy delivery surfaces typically employed by such applicators.
[008] Attempts have been made in the art to simplify applicators by replacing the mechanical elements with a deformable membrane, the inside surface thereof sealing a vacuum chamber and the outside surface adhering to the skin. Creation of sub- atmospheric pressure inside the chamber creates a suction effect on the membrane and skin, drawing both into the chamber.
[009] Furthermore, MR imaging 3D reconstruction of the collagen fibrous septae network in the skin tissue demonstrates a high percentage of septae oriented in a direction perpendicular to the skin surface in women with cellulite. The massage elements described in the art cause the skin tissue to move in and out of a single vacuum chamber, resulting in displacement of the skin tissue in a direction vertical to the skin surface and in parallel to the fibrous septae orientation. Actuation of the skin tissue parallel to the surface thereof and perpendicular to the collagen fibrous septae orientation has been shown to be more effective in breaking down the fibrous septae and reducing the ill-effects of cellulite.
[0010] Additionally, methods in the art couple heating energy treatment to the skin massage treatment. The applied energy source (For example, ultrasound) employed by these methods is typically positioned over skin areas that are not adhered to a vacuum chamber or a deformable membrane and therefore are not being concurrently massaged. Application of energy to non-massaged skin areas negates the synergistic effect produced by the concurrent combination of skin massage and energy application.
I J The combination of heat and concurrent back and forth massaging movement of skin break down the fibrous septae network thus eliminating the pitted appearance of the skin surface. The combination of heat and vacuum also enhances circulation in the treated area and increases metabolic action, which reduces the amount of sub-dermal fat further contributing to the elimination _of the pitted appearance of the skin surface. Therefore, there is a need for improved cellulite treatments that provide back and forth massaging movement of skin, with or without the application of heating energy, applied in parallel to the surface of the skin and perpendicular to the orientation of dermal collagen fibrous septae bringing about improved treatment results and better elimination of the undesired effects of cellulite.
SUMMARY
[0012] The present method and apparatus effect vacuum and massage to human skin tissue for reduction of displeasing effects of cellulite. The method and apparatus are based on coupling an applicator accommodating one or more vacuum chambers sharing one or more common walls therebetween to the surface of the skin and alternately reducing the air pressure in the vacuum chambers to affect vacuum suction to the skin, alternately drawing adjacent segments of skin into the vacuum chambers.
[0013] The alternating suction effect generates enhanced massaging back and forth movement of the skin tissue against the common wall between adjacent vacuum chambers, parallel to the skin surface and perpendicular to the collagen fibrous septae orientation. This action is achieved using vacuum chambers alone without the use of mechanical actuators and/or any moving parts.
[0014] The method and apparatus also couple heating energy to the application of vacuum and massage. Such heating energy may be one or more forms selected from a group of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresisand and microwaves and delivered by heating energy delivery surfaces. The heating energy delivery surfaces may be located in one or more locations including inside the vacuum chambers, between the vacuum chambers or any combination thereof.
[0015] According to an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus, the vacuum chamber walls, or segments thereof, are made of conductive material and are operative to deliver RF heating energy. Alternatively, only the common wall between adjacent vacuum chambers may be made of an electrically conductive material and function, as a whole, as an RF electrode.
[0016] According to another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus one or more RF electrodes are located on the inner face of one or more walls of adjacent vacuum chambers. Additional one or more RF electrodes are located on either orJroth faces of the common wall therebetween. Alternatively and additionally, the RF electrodes may extend beyond the inner face of the vacuum chamber walls to apply heating energy to adjacent skin tissue about to be drawn into the vacuum chambers. [0017J RF energy delivery may be controlled by a machine controller in only one vacuum chamber or more than one vacuum chambers, concurrently, in an alternating fashion or in any other sequence according to a predetermined treatment protocol.
[0018] According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus the machine control is operative to control the alternating sequence of vacuum application in adjacent vacuum chambers as well as the type of air pressure so that to effect an asymmetric massaging movement of the skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin so as to displace the applicator along the surface of the skin.
[00191 Exemplary embodiments of the method and apparatus may also be employed in other aesthetic skin tissue treatments such as sub-dermal fat cells breakdown lessening the amount of sub-dermal fat, tightening loose skin, tightening and firming body surface, reducing wrinkles in the skin and collagen remodeling.
GLOSSARY
[0020] The terms "Skin tissue" and "Skin" are used interchangeably in the present disclosure and mean the superficial layer of skin including the epidermis and dermis and all dermal structures such as sensory nerve endings, blood vessels, sweat glands, etc.
[0021 ] The term "Sub-Dermis" as used in the present disclosure means the skin layer below the dermis including tissues such as fat and collagen fibrous septae.
[0022] The terms "Vacuum", "Suction" and "Sub-atmospheric air pressure" are used interchangeably in the present disclosure and mean any air pressure less or lower than ambient air pressure.
BRlEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023J The present method and apparatus will be understood and appreciated from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the drawings in which:
[0024J Figure 1 is a simplified cross-sectional view of an applicator for treatment of human skin and sub-dermis in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present method and apparatus.
[0025] Figures 2A, 2B, 2C & 2D are simplified illustrations of various alternative configurations of the energy delivery surfaces of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ;
/ [0026J Figure 3 is a simplified illustration of the operation of the applicator of Figure 1 in massaging the skin tissue in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus. N
[0027] Figure 4 is a simplified illustration of the operation of the applicator of Figure 1 effecting the displacement thereof in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
[0028] Figure 5 is a simplified illustration of the apparatus of Fig. 1 arranged in a three-chamber arrangement.
[0029] Figure 6 is a simplified illustration of the apparatus of Fig. I further including a roller in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
[0030] Figure 7 is a simplified illustration of the apparatus of Fig. 1 further including a flexible divider between adjacent vacuum chambers in accordance with further another exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0031 ] Reference is now made to Figure 1 , which illustrates a cross-sectional view of an applicator 100 having a housing 102 accommodating one or more vacuum chambers. Figure 1, 'for example, illustrates two vacuum chambers 104. Chambers 104 are defined by the inner surfaces of walls 106 and 108, closed portion 1 10 and the surface of skin tissue 1 16. Sealing edges 1 14 of walls 106 may be flared to increase contact area with the surface of skin tissue 1 16 and provide a better seal therewith. Additionally, sealing edge 1 14 of wall 108 may be coated with a high friction coating to enhance massaging of skin tissue 1 16 being urged thereagainst. For example, the vacuum chamber may be of the type disclosed in assignee's US Patent Application assigned serial number 12/503,834 the disclosures of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
[0032] One or more sources of one or more air pressure types selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure communicate with chambers 104. For example, in the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 1, sub-atmospheric air pressure is applied to chambers 104 through a conduit 122 and a bore 120 in closed portion 1 10 thus creating a vacuum within chambers 104. Chambers 104 are also vented to the surrounding ambient air through conduit 126. Alternatively positive air pressure may be delivered through conduit 126 or through another conduit (not shown).
[0033] The desired source of air pressure in chambers 104 is selected by employing a valve 124, which may be any standard single-way or multiple way valve as known in the art.
[0034] Vacuum values within vacuum chambers 104 may be within the range of 0.05Bar to I Bar below ambient pressure. Typically, the vacuum values are within the range of 0.1 Bar to 0.5Bar below ambient pressure.
[0035] A machine controller (not shown) connected to each selector valve 124 by electrical conductors 128 selects the desired type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof, for each vacuum chamber 104 individually, from a multiplicity of predetermined treatment program protocols. For example, alternating the application of sub-atmospheric pressure in each of two adjacent vacuum chambers 104 creates alternating suction forces on adjacent areas of treated skin tissue 1 16, urging skin tissue 1 16 to move in and out of the corresponding vacuum chambers 104. Suction of skin tissue 1 16 into a vacuum chamber 104 creates a skin protrusion (as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4) drawing adjacent skin tissue into the chamber. Concurrent relief of suction in an adjacent chamber 104 releases the tension on the protrusion within the chamber allowing skin tissue 1 16 to relax, exit the chamber and be drawn into the adjacent chamber 104 in which suction is concurrently being applied. This creates additional and concurrent back and forth movement of skin tissue I 16. between adjacent chambers 104. parallel to the surface of skin tissue 1 16, against the sealing edge 1 14 of wall 108. This parallel movement creates a massaging effect, perpendicular to the collagen fibrous septae in the sub-dermis (not shown) resulting in breaking down of the septae as will be described below in detail.
[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus heating energy may be coupled to skin tissue 1 16 concurrently with the application ot vacuum and massage. Such heating energy may be one or more heating energy forms selected from a group consisting of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis. iontophoresis and microwaves. Different forms of energy may be concurrently applied in each chamber.
[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus, RF energy is employed so that energy is delivered into skin tissue to heat the skin and sub-dermal tissues inside, and adjacent to, the vacuum chambers that are concurrently being massaged. This produces a synergistic effect and enhances the breakdown of the dermal collagen fibrous septae. (
[0038] The sequence and duration of RF energy emission by the RF electrodes in vacuum chambers 104 is synchronized with the sequence and duration of application of the selected type of air pressure in vacuum chambers 104 by the machine controller (not shown) connected to switch 138 (connection not shown) [0039] Commonly RF frequency is in the range from 50KHz to 200MHz. Typically.
RF frequency is from 100KHz to 10 MHz or from I OOKHZ to 100MHz or. alternatively, from 300KHz to 3MHz.
[0040] Commonly, RF power is in the range from 0.5 W to 300W. Typically, the range of the RF power is from 1 W to 200W or from 1 OW to 100W.
[0041 ] Commonly, the range of ultrasound energy frequency is from 100kHz to
I OMHz. Typically, the range of ultrasound energy frequency is from 50OkHz to
5MHz. Typically, the range of power density is 0.1 W/cm2 up to 5W/cm2.
[0042] Reference is now made to Figs. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, which are simplified illustrations of various alternative configurations of the energy delivery surfaces of the apparatus of Fig. 1.
[0043] In the embodiment of Fig. 2A, heating energy delivery surfaces 202 are located on the inner face of walls 206 of adjacent vacuum chambers and energy delivery surfaces 214 are located on both faces of the common wall 208 therebetween.
[0044] In the embodiment of Fig. 2B, heating energy delivery surfaces 202 extend beyond the inner face of the vacuum chamber walls 206, of which sealing edges 214 are flared outwardly to provide extended heating energy delivery surfaces and apply heating energy not only to tissues within vacuum chambers 204, but to adjacent skin tissue 216 as well about to be drawn into the vacuum chambers.
[0045] In the embodiment of Fig. 2C, heating energy delivery surfaces 202 are located on the inner face of walls 206, which are made of an electrically insulating material.
Wall 208 is made of a conductive material, as indicated in Figure 2C by a diagonal- lincs-fill, and serves, as a whole, as an RF electrode.
[0046] In the embodiment of Fig. 2D, Walls 206 and 208 are electrically conductive, in which case walls 206 and 208, as a whole, serve as RF electrodes. The walls bordering walls 206 and 208 (not shown) are made of an electrically insulating material. Alternatively, segments of walls 206 and 208 may be electrically conductive while others may be electrically insulated.
[0047] In any one of the above configurations, wall 208, or energy delivery surface 202 thereon, is electrically connected to pole 230 of an RF energy source through conductor 232. A pole 234 of the RF energy source is electrically connected to one or more walls 206, or energy delivery surfaces 202 thereon, through conductors 236. RF energy delivery from the RF energy source to walls 206 and 208. or energy delivery surface 202 thereon, is controlled by switch 238.
[0048] It will be appreciated that apparatus 100 may employ any one or combination of the above configurations.
[0049] Reference is now made to Figures 3A, 3B, 3C & 3D, which illustrate stages of the operation of applicator 100 of Figure 1 in massaging the skin tissue 316 and sub- dermis 320, including collagen fibrous septae, which are generally in parallel to the surface of skin 316, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
[0050] In Figure 3A, sub-atmospheric pressure is applied in vacuum chamber 304, as indicated by arrow 340, drawing skin tissue 316 and sub-dermis 320 into chamber 304 creating skin protrusion 318. The suction of skin tissue 316 and sub-dermis 320 into vacuum chamber 304 draws adjacent skin tissue to converge, parallel to the surface of skin tissue 316, towards and into vacuum chamber 304 as depicted by arrows designated by reference numeral 350. This movement urges skin tissue 316 and sub-dermis 320 against sealing edges 314 of walls 306 and 308 massaging skin tissue 316 and breaking down collagen fiber septae in sub-dermis 320, which are perpendicular in orientation to the direction of movement of skin tissue 316.
[0051 ] In Figure 3B, protrusion 318 fills vacuum chamber 304, suction is maintained by sub-atmospheric pressure in chamber 304, as indicated by arrow 342, holding in place protrusion 318.
[0052] In Figure 3C, chamber 304 is vented, increasing the pressure inside the chamber to ambient atmospheric pressure and releasing the suction holding in place protrusion 318 inside chamber 304. Concurrently, sub-atmospheric pressure is applied in vacuum chamber 324, as indicated by arrow 370, sucking skin tissue 316 into chamber 324 creating protrusion 328. Concurrent relief of suction in adjacent chamber 304 releases the tension on the protrusion within the chamber allowing skin tissue 316 to relax, exit the chamber, travel in parallel to the surface of skin 316. as depicted by the arrow here designated by reference numeral 352, and be drawn into the adjacent chamber 324 in which suction is concurrently being applied. This creates additional and concurrent back and forth movement of skin tissue 316, between adjacent chambers 304 and 324, parallel to the surface of skin tissue 316, against the sealing edge 314 of wall 308. This movement, perpendicular to the orientation of the collagen fibrous septae, strongly urges skin tissue 316 and sub-dermis 320 against sealing edge 314 of wall 308, further massaging the tissue, applying enhanced shearing forces to the collagen fibrous septae in the sub-dermis 320, breaking down the septae as indicated by reference numeral 322. Alternatively, positive air pressure may be pumped into chamber 304, as indicated by arrow 360, forcing protrusion 318 out of vacuum chamber 304, strongly urging skin tissue 316 against sealing edge 314 of wall 308 and further enhancing the shearing forces on the collagen fibrous septae in the sub-dermis 320.
[0053] In Figure 3D, protrusion 328 fills vacuum chamber 324, sub-atmospheric pressure is maintained in chambers 324, as indicated by arrow 380, holding in place protrusion 328 and all movement of skin tissue is stopped. '
[0054J It is appreciated that this cycle may be repeated or reversed, with or without concurrent energy treatment application, in accordance with a predetermined treatment program protocol to effect enhanced back and forth symmetrical massaging movement of the skin tissue 316 against sealing edge 314 of common wall 308 in parallel to the surface skin tissue 316, further breaking down the collagen fibrous septae in the sub-dermis.
(0055] Reference is now made to Figures 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D & 4F, which illustrate the • sequence of the application of air pressure to adjacent vacuum chambers effecting asymmetrical skin movement and displacement of the applicator 100 of Figure 1 along the surface of the skin 416 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus.
[0056] In Figure 4A, sub-atmospheric pressure is applied in vacuum chamber 404. as " indicated by arrow 440, sucking skin tissue 416 into chamber 404 and creating protrusion 418. Suction of skin tissue 416 into vacuum chamber 404 draws adjacent skin tissue to symmetrically converge, parallel to the surface of skin tissue 416, towards vacuum chamber 404 as depicted by arrows designated by reference numeral 450. At this stage, there is no directional displacement of applicator 100. [0057] In Figure 4B. skin tissue protrusion 418 fills vacuum chamber 404 and suction in chamber 404 is maintained.
[0058] In Figure 4C, sub-atmospheric pressure continues to be maintained in chamber 404, as indicated by arrow 440, holding in place protrusion 418. Concurrently, sub- • atmospheric pressure is applied in vacuum chamber 424, as indicated by arrow 470. sucking skin tissue 416 into chamber 424 and creating protrusion 428. The movement of skin tissue 416 into vacuum chamber 424 asymmetrically draws adjacent skin tissue to travel parallel to the surface of skin tissue 416, towards vacuum chamber 424 as depicted by the arrow here designated by reference numeral 452. This asymmetrical movement of skin tissue 416 also pulls skin protrusion 418, strongly adhered to chamber 404, in a direction opposite to that indicated by arrow 452, effecting directional displacement of applicator 100 in a direction indicated by arrow designated by reference numeral 490.
[0059] In Figure 4D, sub-atmospheric pressure is maintained in both chambers 404 and 424, holding in place protrusions 418 and 428 respectively. At this stage, there is no displacement of applicator 100.
[0060] In Figure 4E, sub-atmospheric pressure is maintained in chamber 424, holding skin protrusion 428 in place. Concurrently, chamber 404 is vented, increasing the pressure inside the chamber to surrounding ambient air pressure and releasing the vacuum holding protrusion 418 inside chamber 404 in place. Alternatively, positive air pressure is pumped into chamber 404, as indicated by arrow 460, urging skin protrusion 418 out of vacuum chamber 404. This releases the pulling tension on the skin tissue between chambers 404 and 424 and allowing the relaxed skin tissue to stretch asymmetrically in a direction indicated by arrow 454 and further effect directional displacement of applicator 100 in a direction opposite to that indicated by " arrow 454, here indicated by arrow 492.
[0061 ] In Figure 4F. chamber 424 is vented, increasing the pressure inside the chamber to surrounding ambient air pressure and releasing the suction holding protrusion 428 inside chamber 424 in place. Alternatively, positive air pressure is pumped into chamber 424, as indicated by arrow 480, urging skin tissue protrusion 428 out of vacuum chamber 404 and effecting symmetrical movement of skin tissue 416 in a direction indicated by arrows 456. At this stage there is no displacement of applicator 100.
[0062] It is appreciated that this cycle may be repeated or reversed, with or w ithout concurrent energy treatment application, in accordance with a predetermined treatment program protocol to effect back and forth massaging skin tissue 416 in parallel to the surface thereof, further breaking down the collagen fibrous septae in the sub-dermis 420, which are perpendicular in orientation to the direction of movement of skin tissue 416. Additionally and alternatively, this cycle may be repeated or reversed, with or without concurrent energy treatment application, in accordance with a predetermined treatment program protocol to alternate the application of suction inside adjacent chambers asymmetrically, effecting movement of applicator 100 along the surface of skin tissue 416.
[0063] Reference is now made to Figure 5, which is a simplified illustration of applicator 100 of Fig. I arranged in a three-vacuum chamber arrangement. It will be appreciated that applicator 100 may arranged in plurality of multiple-chamber arrangements including two or more chambers arranged in a row, a grid-like arrangement or arranged in any other suitable geometrical pattern.
[0064] Reference is now made to Figure 6, which is a simplified illustration of applicator 100 of Fig. I in accordance with an exemplary embodiment further including a roller 602 at the sealing edge 614 of common wall 608 between two adjacent vacuum chambers 604 and 624 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the method and apparatus. Roller 6θf reduces friction at the sealing edge 614 of wall 608 and facilitates back and forth displacement of applicator 100 over the surface of skin tissue 616 as indicated by arrow 650. It will be appreciated that roller 602 may be placed at the sealing edge of any wall, such as 606 and be replaced with any element that facilitates the massaging of skin tissue 616 and displacement of applicator 100 such as a ball, a cylinder, sliders, etc. Additionally and alternatively, roller 602 may be shaped to enhance.massaging of skin tissue 616 being urged thereagainst.
[0065] Reference is now made to Figure 7, which is a simplified illustration of applicator 100 of Fig. 1 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment further including a flexible divider 702 flexibly attached to, or partially embedded in, common wall 708 between adjacent vacuum chambers 704 and 724. Flexible divider 702 may be made of any suitable flexible material, which would allow pivotal back and forth movement of divider 702 as indicated by arrow 750. Alternatively, flexible divider 702 may made of either a flexible or rigid suitable material and pivotally attached to the sealing edge of wall 708.
[0066] It will be appreciated that exemplary embodiments of the method and apparatus may be also employed in other aesthetic skin tissue treatments such as sub-dermal fat cells breakdown lessening the amount of sub-dermal fat, tightening loose skin, tightening and firming body surface, reducing wrinkles in the skin and collagen remodeling.
[0067] It will also be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present method and apparatus is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the method and apparatus includes both combinations and sub-combinations of various features described hereinabove as well as modifications and variations thereof which would occur to a person skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not in the prior art.

Claims

[00681 What is claimed is:
1 . A method for treatment of skin and sub-dermis, the method comprising:
providing a housing accommodating at least two adjacent vacuum chambers sharing at least one common wall therebetween;
coupling said chambers to a surface of skin; and
alternating application of air pressure to said chambers so that to effect back and forth massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin.
2. The method according to claim 1. and wherein said air pressure is at least one type of air pressure selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure to said vacuum chambers.
3. The method according to claim 2, and wherein also controlling said at least one type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof in each of said chambers individually.
4. The method according to claim 1 , and wherein also applying heating energy in a form of at least one of a group consisting of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresis and microwaves. .
5. The method according to claim 4, and wherein also applying said heating energy to said skin concurrently with said back and forth massaging movement.
6. The method according to claim 4, and wherein also applying said heating energy inside at least one of said chambers.
7. The method according to claim 4, and wherein also concurrently applying different forms of said heating energy in any one of said chambers. .
8. The method according to claim 4, and wherein also comprising controlling the application of said energy in at least one vacuum chamber according to a predetermined treatment protocol.
9. The method according to claim 1 , and also comprising applying alternating asymmetric massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of skin so as to displace said housing along the surface of skin.
10. A method for treatment of skin and sub-dermis, the method comprising:
providing a housing accommodating at least two adjacent vacuum chambers sharing at least one common wall therebetween;
coupling said chambers to a surface of skin;
alternating application of air pressure to said chambers so that to effect back and forth massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin; and
applying heating energy to said skin inside said chambers concurrently with said back and forth massaging movement.
I I . The method according to claim 10, further comprising applying at least one type of air pressure selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure to said vacuum chambers.
12. The method according to claim 1 1 , and wherein also controlling said at least one type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof in each of said chambers individually.
13. The method according to claim 10, and wherein said heating energy is in a form of at least one of a group consisting of,light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresis and microwaves.
14. The method according to claim 13, and wherein also concurrently applying different forms of said heating energy in any one of said chambers.
15. The method according to claim 13, and wherein also comprising controlling the application of said energy in at least one vacuum chamber according to a predetermined treatment protocol.
16. The method according to claim 10, and wherein also comprising applying alternating asymmetric massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin so as to displace said housing along the surface of said skin.
17. A method for treatment of skin and sub-dermis, the method comprising:
providing a housing accommodating at least two adjacent vacuum chambers sharing at least one common wall therebetween;
coupling said chambers to a surface of skin;
alternating application of air pressure to said chambers so that to effect massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin; and effecting displacement of said housing along the surface of said skin.
18. The method according to claim 17, and wherein also comprising applying at least one type of air pressure selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure to said vacuum chambers.
19. The method according to claim 18, and wherein also controlling said at least one type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof in each of said chambers individually.
20. The method according to claim 17, and wherein also comprising applying heating energy in a form of at least one of a group consisting of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresis and microwaves to said skin.
21 . The method according to claim 20, and wherein also comprising applying said heating energy to said skin concurrently with a back and forth massaging movement.
22. The method according to claim 20, and wherein also comprising applying said heating energy inside at least one of said chambers.
23. The method according to claim 20, and wherein also concurrently applying different forms of said heating energy in any one of said chambers.
24. The method according to claim 20, and wherein also comprising controlling the application of said energy in at least one vacuum chamber according to a predetermined treatment protocol.
25. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, and wherein also using said method for at least one of cosmetic skin tissue treatments selected from a group of sub-dermal fat cells breakdown, lessening the amount of sub-dermal fat, tightening loose skin, tightening and firming body surface, reducing wrinkles in the skin and collagen remodeling.
26. An apparatus for treatment of skin, and sub-derm is. the apparatus comprising:
a housing accommodating at least two adjacent vacuum chambers sharing at least one common wall therebetween;
a source of air pressure communicating with said vacuum chambers; and
a machine control operative to control said source of air pressure so that to apply alternating air pressure to said chambers and effect back and forth massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin.
27. The apparatus according to claim 26, and wherein said air pressure is at least one type of air pressure selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure.
28. The apparatus according to claim 27, and wherein said machine control is ooppeerraattiivvee ttoo ccoonnttrrooll ssaaiidd aatt lleeaasstt oonnee ttyyppee ooff air pressure and sequence of application thereof in each of said chambers individually.
29. The apparatus according to claim 26, and wherein further comprising a source of heating energy operative to generate heating energy in a form of at least one of group consisting of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresis and microwaves.
30. The apparatus according to claim 29, and wherein said chambers further comprising energy delivery surfaces electrically connected to said source of heating energy.
31. The apparatus according to claim 30, and wherein said machine controller is also operative to control the delivery of said generated energy to said delivery surfaces in at least one vacuum chamber according to a predetermined treatment protocol.
32. The apparatus according to claim 30, and wherein said- source of heating energy is operative to generate said heating energy to said delivery surfaces concurrently with said back and forth massaging movement of skin.
33. The apparatus according to claim 30, and wherein at least one of said heating energy delivery surfaces is located inside at least one of said chambers.
34. The apparatus according to claim 30, and wherein at least one of said heating energy delivery surfaces is located outside at least one of said chambers.
35. The apparatus according to claim 29. and wherein said machine control is operative to control the delivery of said different forms of heating energy in any one of said chambers individually.
36. The apparatus according to claim 26, and wherein said machine control is also operative to control said source of air pressure so that to effect an asymmetric massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin so as to displace said housing along the surface of said skin.
37. An apparatus for treatment of skin and sub-derm is, the apparatus comprising:
a housing accommodating at least two adjacent vacuum chambers sharing at least one common wall between them and comprising at least one energy delivery surface;
a source of air pressure communicating with said vacuum chambers; a machine control operative to control said source of air pressure so that to apply alternating air pressure to said chambers and effect back and forth massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin: and
a source of heating energy operative to generate heating energy and communicate with said delivery surface.
38. The apparatus according to claim 37, and wherein at least one of said energy delivery surface is located inside at least one of said chambers.
39. The apparatus according to claim 37, and wherein at least one of said heating energy delivery surfaces is located outside at least one of said chambers.
40. The apparatus according to claim 37, and wherein said air pressure is at least one type of air pressure selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure.
41. ' The apparatus according to claim 40, and wherein said machine control-is operative to control said at least one type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof in each of said chambers individually.
42. The apparatus according to claim 37, and wherein said heating energy is in a form of at least one of a group consisting of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresis and microwaves.
43. The apparatus according to claim 37, and wherein said source of heating energy is operative to apply said heating energy to said skin concurrently with said back and forth massaging movement.
44. The apparatus according to claim 42, and wherein said machine control is also operative to concurrently apply different forms of said heating energy in any one of said chambers.
45. The apparatus according to claim 37, and wherein said machine control is also operative to control at least one type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof in each of said chambers so that to effect displacement of said housing along the surface of said skin.
46. An apparatus for treatment of skin and sub-derm is, the apparatus comprising:
a housing accommodating at least two adjacent vacuum chambers sharing at least one common wall between the chambers; a source of at least one type of air pressure selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure communicating with said vacuum chambers; and
a machine control operative to *
control said source of air pressure so that to apply alternating air pressure to said chambers and effect back and forth massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin; and
control the sequence of application of said type of air pressure in each of said chambers so that to effect displacement of said housing along the surface of said skin.
47. The apparatus according to claim 46, and wherein said machine control is operative to control said at least one type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof in each of said chambers individually.
48. The apparatus according to claim 46, and wherein further comprising a source of heating energy operative to generate heating energy in a form of at least one of group consisting of light, RF, ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresis and microwaves.
49. The apparatus according to claim 48, and wherein said source of heating energy is operative to apply heating energy to said skin concurrently with said back and forth massaging movement.
50. The apparatus according to claim 48, and wherein said chambers further comprising energy delivery surfaces electrically connected to said source of heating energy.
51. The apparatus according to claim 50, and wherein at least one of said energy delivery surface is located inside at least one of said chambers.
52. The apparatus according to claim 50, and wherein at least one of said heating energy delivery surfaces is located outside at least one of said chambers.
53. The apparatus according to claim 48, and wherein said machine control is operative to control said different forms of said heating energy in any one of said chambers individually.
54.• The apparatus according to claim 48, and wherein said machine control is also operative to concurrently apply different forms of said heating energy in any of said chambers.
55. The apparatus according to claim 46, and wherein said machine control is also operative to control said source of air pressure so that to effect an asymmetric massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to' the surface of said skin so as to displace said housing along the surface of skin.
56. A self displacing apparatus for treatment of skin and sub-derm is, the apparatus comprising:
a housing accommodating at least two adjacent vacuum chambers sharing at least one common wall therebetween;
a source of air pressure communicating with said vacuum chambers; and
a machine control operative to control said source of pressure so that to apply alternating air pressure to said chambers and effect an asymmetric massaging movement of skin tissue in parallel to the surface of said skin so as to displace said housing along the surface of skin.
57. The apparatus according to claim 56, and wherein said air pressure is at least one type of air pressure selected from a group consisting of sub-atmospheric air pressure, positive air pressure and ambient air pressure.
58. The apparatus according to claim 57. and wherein said machine control is operative to control said at least one type of air pressure and sequence of application thereof in each of said chambers individually.
59. The apparatus according to claim 56, and wherein further comprising a source of heating energy operative to generate heating energy in a form of at least one of group consisting of light, RF. ultrasound, electrolipophoresis, iontophoresis and microwaves.
60. The apparatus according to claim 59, and wherein said source of heating energy is operative to apply said heating energy to said skin concurrently with a back and forth massaging movement.
61. The apparatus according to claim 59, and wherein said chambers further comprising energy delivery surfaces electrically connected to said source of heating energy.
62. The apparatus according to claim 61, and wherein at least one of said v. energy delivery surface is located inside at least one of said chambers.
63. The apparatus according to claim 61, and wherein at least one of said heating energy delivery surfaces is located outside at least one of said chambers.
64. The apparatus according to claim 59, and wherein said machine control is operative to control said different forms of said heating energy in any one of said chambers individually.
PCT/IL2010/000656 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis. WO2011021184A1 (en)

Priority Applications (10)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
BR112012002204A BR112012002204A2 (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 method and apparatus for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and subdermis.
AU2010286035A AU2010286035A1 (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis
KR1020127004087A KR101687854B1 (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis
EP10809627.2A EP2467116A4 (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis.
JP2012525249A JP5778151B2 (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Equipment for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and lower skin
CN2010800370615A CN102711706A (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis.
MX2012002042A MX2012002042A (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis.
US13/389,799 US9295607B2 (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis
IL217738A IL217738A (en) 2009-08-20 2012-01-26 Method and apparatus for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis
US14/834,304 US20160228322A1 (en) 2009-08-20 2015-08-24 Method and apparatus for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US23536609P 2009-08-20 2009-08-20
US61/235,366 2009-08-20

Related Child Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/389,799 A-371-Of-International US9295607B2 (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis
US14/834,304 Continuation US20160228322A1 (en) 2009-08-20 2015-08-24 Method and apparatus for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2011021184A1 true WO2011021184A1 (en) 2011-02-24
WO2011021184A4 WO2011021184A4 (en) 2011-04-14

Family

ID=43606693

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IL2010/000656 WO2011021184A1 (en) 2009-08-20 2010-08-15 Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis.

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (2) US9295607B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2467116A4 (en)
JP (1) JP5778151B2 (en)
KR (1) KR101687854B1 (en)
CN (1) CN102711706A (en)
AU (1) AU2010286035A1 (en)
BR (1) BR112012002204A2 (en)
MX (1) MX2012002042A (en)
WO (1) WO2011021184A1 (en)

Cited By (24)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120232440A1 (en) * 2011-03-11 2012-09-13 Francisco Jose Arriaza Munoz Device for Treating Cellulite
WO2013072645A1 (en) * 2011-11-18 2013-05-23 Lpa Corp Device for treating cellulite and stretch marks
EP2614807A1 (en) * 2012-01-11 2013-07-17 Syneron Medical Ltd. Large area body shaping applicator
ITRE20120011A1 (en) * 2012-02-16 2013-08-17 Mantis S R L ELECTROMEDICAL DEVICE
WO2014191263A1 (en) * 2013-05-30 2014-12-04 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Non-invasive device for rejuvenation of skin tissue using treatment pressure below ambient pressure
CN104244899A (en) * 2012-01-11 2014-12-24 赛诺龙医疗公司 Large area body shaping applicator
CN104869971A (en) * 2012-12-21 2015-08-26 赛诺龙医疗公司 Large area body shaping applicator
WO2019106665A1 (en) * 2017-11-28 2019-06-06 N.M.B. Medical Applications Ltd. Devices and methods for generating periodic movements of a skin
US10980592B2 (en) 2012-07-09 2021-04-20 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Skin treatment method and apparatus
US11185690B2 (en) 2016-05-23 2021-11-30 BTL Healthcare Technologies, a.s. Systems and methods for tissue treatment
US11247039B2 (en) 2016-05-03 2022-02-15 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device including RF source of energy and vacuum system
US11247063B2 (en) 2019-04-11 2022-02-15 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Methods and devices for aesthetic treatment of biological structures by radiofrequency and magnetic energy
US11253717B2 (en) 2015-10-29 2022-02-22 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11253718B2 (en) 2015-07-01 2022-02-22 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. High power time varying magnetic field therapy
US11266852B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2022-03-08 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11464994B2 (en) 2016-05-10 2022-10-11 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11464993B2 (en) 2016-05-03 2022-10-11 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device including RF source of energy and vacuum system
US11484727B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2022-11-01 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11491342B2 (en) 2015-07-01 2022-11-08 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Magnetic stimulation methods and devices for therapeutic treatments
US11491329B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2022-11-08 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11534619B2 (en) 2016-05-10 2022-12-27 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11612758B2 (en) 2012-07-05 2023-03-28 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Device for repetitive nerve stimulation in order to break down fat tissue means of inductive magnetic fields
US11633596B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2023-04-25 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11896816B2 (en) 2021-11-03 2024-02-13 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient

Families Citing this family (43)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8535228B2 (en) 2004-10-06 2013-09-17 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc Method and system for noninvasive face lifts and deep tissue tightening
US10864385B2 (en) 2004-09-24 2020-12-15 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc Rejuvenating skin by heating tissue for cosmetic treatment of the face and body
US8444562B2 (en) 2004-10-06 2013-05-21 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc System and method for treating muscle, tendon, ligament and cartilage tissue
US8690779B2 (en) 2004-10-06 2014-04-08 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc Noninvasive aesthetic treatment for tightening tissue
US11235179B2 (en) 2004-10-06 2022-02-01 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc Energy based skin gland treatment
US11883688B2 (en) 2004-10-06 2024-01-30 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc Energy based fat reduction
US9694212B2 (en) 2004-10-06 2017-07-04 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc Method and system for ultrasound treatment of skin
US8133180B2 (en) 2004-10-06 2012-03-13 Guided Therapy Systems, L.L.C. Method and system for treating cellulite
US9827449B2 (en) 2004-10-06 2017-11-28 Guided Therapy Systems, L.L.C. Systems for treating skin laxity
US11724133B2 (en) 2004-10-07 2023-08-15 Guided Therapy Systems, Llc Ultrasound probe for treatment of skin
US11207548B2 (en) 2004-10-07 2021-12-28 Guided Therapy Systems, L.L.C. Ultrasound probe for treating skin laxity
US10537304B2 (en) 2008-06-06 2020-01-21 Ulthera, Inc. Hand wand for ultrasonic cosmetic treatment and imaging
US8357150B2 (en) 2009-07-20 2013-01-22 Syneron Medical Ltd. Method and apparatus for fractional skin treatment
EP2382010A4 (en) 2008-12-24 2014-05-14 Guided Therapy Systems Llc Methods and systems for fat reduction and/or cellulite treatment
CN102711706A (en) * 2009-08-20 2012-10-03 赛诺龙医疗公司 Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis.
FR2967893B1 (en) * 2010-11-25 2013-10-18 Zadeh David Khorassani MASSAGE APPARATUS COMPRISING A SUCTION SYSTEM
US9119758B2 (en) 2011-08-16 2015-09-01 Thienna Ho Lip enhancement and enlargement device
CN204017181U (en) 2013-03-08 2014-12-17 奥赛拉公司 Aesthstic imaging and processing system, multifocal processing system and perform the system of aesthetic procedure
US20150173996A1 (en) * 2013-12-20 2015-06-25 L'oreal Method for treating the skin and device
CA3177417A1 (en) 2014-04-18 2015-10-22 Ulthera, Inc. Band transducer ultrasound therapy
EP3232958B1 (en) * 2014-12-18 2019-02-20 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Microdermabrasion device
US10518104B2 (en) 2015-04-23 2019-12-31 Cynosure, Llc Systems and methods of unattended treatment
US9937358B2 (en) 2015-07-01 2018-04-10 Btl Holdings Limited Aesthetic methods of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
KR101585151B1 (en) * 2015-08-31 2016-01-13 (주)에스디생명공학 3D negative pressure module for tailored multimodal stimulation of skin
US9636516B2 (en) * 2015-09-30 2017-05-02 Btl Holdings Limited Methods and devices for tissue treatment using shock waves and electromagnetic field
US11484724B2 (en) * 2015-09-30 2022-11-01 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Methods and devices for tissue treatment using mechanical stimulation and electromagnetic field
US10080906B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2018-09-25 Btl Holdings Limited Methods and devices for tissue treatment using mechanical stimulation and electromagnetic field
AU2017200104A1 (en) * 2016-01-07 2017-07-27 Hld Healthy Life Devices Oy Treatment of nerve function using low pressure suction apparatus
AU2017200108A1 (en) * 2016-01-07 2017-07-27 Hld Healthy Life Devices Oy Treatment of head and neck lymphedema using low pressure suction apparatus
AU2017200105A1 (en) * 2016-01-07 2017-07-27 Hld Healthy Life Devices Oy Treatment of neuropathic pain using low pressure suction apparatus
CA3007665A1 (en) 2016-01-18 2017-07-27 Ulthera, Inc. Compact ultrasound device having annular ultrasound array peripherally electrically connected to flexible printed circuit board and method of assembly thereof
CN105935336A (en) * 2016-04-25 2016-09-14 佛山当归健康咨询有限公司 Massager
BR112018072101B1 (en) 2016-08-16 2024-01-02 Ulthera, Inc SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COSMETIC SKIN TREATMENT WITH ULTRASOUND
US11141219B1 (en) 2016-08-16 2021-10-12 BTL Healthcare Technologies, a.s. Self-operating belt
KR101878914B1 (en) * 2016-09-21 2018-07-16 (주)케파 Massage apparatus
US10959674B2 (en) 2017-10-23 2021-03-30 Datafeel Inc. Communication devices, methods, and systems
US11944849B2 (en) 2018-02-20 2024-04-02 Ulthera, Inc. Systems and methods for combined cosmetic treatment of cellulite with ultrasound
KR102094276B1 (en) * 2018-11-30 2020-03-27 조대희 SKIN care device
EP4236800A1 (en) 2020-10-30 2023-09-06 DataFeel Inc. Wearable data communication apparatus, kits, methods, and systems
US20220312934A1 (en) * 2021-04-05 2022-10-06 Hermes Innovations, LLC Systems and methods for treating lips and skin
US20220313537A1 (en) * 2021-04-05 2022-10-06 Hermes Innovations, LLC Systems and methods for treating lips and skin
KR102414073B1 (en) * 2021-11-23 2022-06-28 (주)이지템 High Frequency Beauty Device of Suction Type and Driving Method Thereof
KR102409168B1 (en) * 2021-11-25 2022-06-15 (주)이지템 Suction type beauty treatment apparatus using high frequency

Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2659010A1 (en) 1990-03-05 1991-09-06 Albarghouty Saed Massage apparatus for local treatment of pain
US5897512A (en) 1996-04-09 1999-04-27 Zagame; Andre Massage appliance for moving over a predetermined zone of the human body
US5961475A (en) 1996-08-09 1999-10-05 Lpg Systems Massage apparatus with sucking and mobilising action on skin tissue
US20020007836A1 (en) * 1998-11-13 2002-01-24 Rudolf Weyergans Alternating pressure method for cellulite reduction
US20020082668A1 (en) * 1999-11-02 2002-06-27 Dov Ingman Skin-gripper
US20060206040A1 (en) 2005-03-09 2006-09-14 Greenberg Ronald A aparatus and method of body contouring and skin conditioning using a mobile suction device
US20060235339A1 (en) * 2003-04-01 2006-10-19 Moreno Naldoni Skin massage device
US20070208281A1 (en) * 2006-03-06 2007-09-06 Brooks Ronald J Process and apparatus for soft tissue manipulation
US20070255355A1 (en) * 2006-04-06 2007-11-01 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Apparatus and method for skin treatment with compression and decompression
US20080167585A1 (en) * 2006-11-13 2008-07-10 Roee Khen Apparatus, tip and method for treating tissue
US20080183252A1 (en) 2006-09-05 2008-07-31 Roee Khen Apparatus and method for treating cellulite

Family Cites Families (27)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2088780A (en) 1936-10-09 1937-08-03 Sigurd E Follese Massage device
US4428368A (en) * 1980-09-29 1984-01-31 Masakatsu Torii Massage device
GB2261603A (en) * 1991-11-15 1993-05-26 Michel Hechmati Suction massage apparatus for treating sub-cutaneous fat
ATE144124T1 (en) 1991-12-20 1996-11-15 Technomed Medical Systems DEVICE FOR ULTRASONIC THERAPY EMITTING SOUND WAVES, THERMAL EFFECTS AND CAVITATION EFFECTS
JP3040964B2 (en) * 1997-07-11 2000-05-15 秀紀 萩原 Slimming suction cup
FR2782002B1 (en) * 1998-08-06 2000-10-27 Jean Frajdenrajch PERFECTED MASSAGE DEVICE INTENDED TO BE APPLIED TO A PERSON'S SKIN
KR100293459B1 (en) 1998-12-07 2001-11-22 황현배 Control method and control device for portable skin care device
JP3079554U (en) * 2001-02-13 2001-08-24 株式会社ジャパンギャルズ Beauty instrument
US20040260210A1 (en) 2003-06-23 2004-12-23 Engii (2001) Ltd. System and method for face and body treatment
US20030032900A1 (en) 2001-08-08 2003-02-13 Engii (2001) Ltd. System and method for facial treatment
US6662054B2 (en) * 2002-03-26 2003-12-09 Syneron Medical Ltd. Method and system for treating skin
JP2004073812A (en) 2002-06-20 2004-03-11 Ya Man Ltd Massager
CA2561344A1 (en) 2004-04-09 2005-10-27 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Methods and products for producing lattices of emr-treated islets in tissues, and uses therefor
GB0422525D0 (en) 2004-10-11 2004-11-10 Luebcke Peter Dermatological compositions and methods
US20110015549A1 (en) 2005-01-13 2011-01-20 Shimon Eckhouse Method and apparatus for treating a diseased nail
US7857775B2 (en) * 2005-03-15 2010-12-28 Syneron Medical Ltd. Method for soft tissue treatment
US20080146970A1 (en) 2005-12-06 2008-06-19 Julia Therapeutics, Llc Gel dispensers for treatment of skin with acoustic energy
CN100463660C (en) 2006-01-18 2009-02-25 重庆海扶(Hifu)技术有限公司 Ultrasonic therapeutic pincers
US8133191B2 (en) 2006-02-16 2012-03-13 Syneron Medical Ltd. Method and apparatus for treatment of adipose tissue
US9107798B2 (en) 2006-03-09 2015-08-18 Slender Medical Ltd. Method and system for lipolysis and body contouring
US8700176B2 (en) * 2006-07-27 2014-04-15 Pollogen Ltd. Apparatus and method for non-invasive treatment of skin tissue
US9492686B2 (en) 2006-12-04 2016-11-15 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Devices and methods for treatment of skin conditions
US20100106064A1 (en) 2007-03-19 2010-04-29 Syneron Medical Ltd. Method and device for soft tissue destruction
US20090306647A1 (en) * 2008-06-05 2009-12-10 Greg Leyh Dynamically controllable multi-electrode apparatus & methods
US20120116271A1 (en) 2009-07-23 2012-05-10 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Cellulite treatment
CN102711706A (en) * 2009-08-20 2012-10-03 赛诺龙医疗公司 Method and apparatus for non- invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis.
WO2013105079A2 (en) * 2012-01-11 2013-07-18 Syneron Medical Ltd. Large area body shaping applicator

Patent Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2659010A1 (en) 1990-03-05 1991-09-06 Albarghouty Saed Massage apparatus for local treatment of pain
US5897512A (en) 1996-04-09 1999-04-27 Zagame; Andre Massage appliance for moving over a predetermined zone of the human body
US5961475A (en) 1996-08-09 1999-10-05 Lpg Systems Massage apparatus with sucking and mobilising action on skin tissue
US20020007836A1 (en) * 1998-11-13 2002-01-24 Rudolf Weyergans Alternating pressure method for cellulite reduction
US20020082668A1 (en) * 1999-11-02 2002-06-27 Dov Ingman Skin-gripper
US20060235339A1 (en) * 2003-04-01 2006-10-19 Moreno Naldoni Skin massage device
US20060206040A1 (en) 2005-03-09 2006-09-14 Greenberg Ronald A aparatus and method of body contouring and skin conditioning using a mobile suction device
US20070208281A1 (en) * 2006-03-06 2007-09-06 Brooks Ronald J Process and apparatus for soft tissue manipulation
US20070255355A1 (en) * 2006-04-06 2007-11-01 Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. Apparatus and method for skin treatment with compression and decompression
US20080183252A1 (en) 2006-09-05 2008-07-31 Roee Khen Apparatus and method for treating cellulite
US20080167585A1 (en) * 2006-11-13 2008-07-10 Roee Khen Apparatus, tip and method for treating tissue

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of EP2467116A4 *

Cited By (52)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120232440A1 (en) * 2011-03-11 2012-09-13 Francisco Jose Arriaza Munoz Device for Treating Cellulite
WO2013072645A1 (en) * 2011-11-18 2013-05-23 Lpa Corp Device for treating cellulite and stretch marks
US9849058B2 (en) 2011-11-18 2017-12-26 Lpa Corp Device for treating cellulite and stretch marks
CN104244899A (en) * 2012-01-11 2014-12-24 赛诺龙医疗公司 Large area body shaping applicator
EP2614807A1 (en) * 2012-01-11 2013-07-17 Syneron Medical Ltd. Large area body shaping applicator
KR101905237B1 (en) 2012-01-11 2018-10-05 시네론 메디컬 리미티드 Large area body shaping applicator
EP2802306A4 (en) * 2012-01-11 2015-12-02 Syneron Medical Ltd Large area body shaping applicator
US9630020B2 (en) 2012-02-16 2017-04-25 Mantis Srl Electromedical device
CN104144671A (en) * 2012-02-16 2014-11-12 曼缇斯有限公司 Electromedical device
WO2013121265A1 (en) * 2012-02-16 2013-08-22 Mantis Srl An electromedical device
ITRE20120011A1 (en) * 2012-02-16 2013-08-17 Mantis S R L ELECTROMEDICAL DEVICE
US11612758B2 (en) 2012-07-05 2023-03-28 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Device for repetitive nerve stimulation in order to break down fat tissue means of inductive magnetic fields
US10980592B2 (en) 2012-07-09 2021-04-20 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Skin treatment method and apparatus
US11690664B2 (en) 2012-07-09 2023-07-04 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Skin treatment method and apparatus
CN104869971A (en) * 2012-12-21 2015-08-26 赛诺龙医疗公司 Large area body shaping applicator
WO2014191263A1 (en) * 2013-05-30 2014-12-04 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Non-invasive device for rejuvenation of skin tissue using treatment pressure below ambient pressure
US11266850B2 (en) 2015-07-01 2022-03-08 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. High power time varying magnetic field therapy
US11491342B2 (en) 2015-07-01 2022-11-08 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Magnetic stimulation methods and devices for therapeutic treatments
US11253718B2 (en) 2015-07-01 2022-02-22 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. High power time varying magnetic field therapy
US11253717B2 (en) 2015-10-29 2022-02-22 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11247039B2 (en) 2016-05-03 2022-02-15 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device including RF source of energy and vacuum system
US11464993B2 (en) 2016-05-03 2022-10-11 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device including RF source of energy and vacuum system
US11883643B2 (en) 2016-05-03 2024-01-30 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Systems and methods for treatment of a patient including RF and electrical energy
US11602629B2 (en) 2016-05-03 2023-03-14 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Systems and methods for treatment of a patient including rf and electrical energy
US11464994B2 (en) 2016-05-10 2022-10-11 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11691024B2 (en) 2016-05-10 2023-07-04 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11534619B2 (en) 2016-05-10 2022-12-27 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11590356B2 (en) 2016-05-10 2023-02-28 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11878162B2 (en) 2016-05-23 2024-01-23 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Systems and methods for tissue treatment
US11458307B2 (en) 2016-05-23 2022-10-04 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Systems and methods for tissue treatment
US11185690B2 (en) 2016-05-23 2021-11-30 BTL Healthcare Technologies, a.s. Systems and methods for tissue treatment
US11623083B2 (en) 2016-05-23 2023-04-11 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Systems and methods for tissue treatment
US11896821B2 (en) 2016-05-23 2024-02-13 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Systems and methods for tissue treatment
US11484727B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2022-11-01 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11266852B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2022-03-08 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11524171B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2022-12-13 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11497925B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2022-11-15 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11628308B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2023-04-18 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11607556B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2023-03-21 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11679270B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2023-06-20 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
US11794029B2 (en) 2016-07-01 2023-10-24 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Aesthetic method of biological structure treatment by magnetic field
WO2019106665A1 (en) * 2017-11-28 2019-06-06 N.M.B. Medical Applications Ltd. Devices and methods for generating periodic movements of a skin
US11247063B2 (en) 2019-04-11 2022-02-15 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Methods and devices for aesthetic treatment of biological structures by radiofrequency and magnetic energy
US11484725B2 (en) 2019-04-11 2022-11-01 Btl Medical Solutions A.S. Methods and devices for aesthetic treatment of biological structures by radiofrequency and magnetic energy
US11633596B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2023-04-25 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11813451B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2023-11-14 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11826565B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2023-11-28 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11806528B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2023-11-07 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11878167B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2024-01-23 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11491329B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2022-11-08 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11679255B2 (en) 2020-05-04 2023-06-20 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient
US11896816B2 (en) 2021-11-03 2024-02-13 Btl Healthcare Technologies A.S. Device and method for unattended treatment of a patient

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
BR112012002204A2 (en) 2019-09-24
US20160228322A1 (en) 2016-08-11
US20120150079A1 (en) 2012-06-14
JP2013502264A (en) 2013-01-24
KR101687854B1 (en) 2016-12-19
AU2010286035A1 (en) 2012-02-23
WO2011021184A4 (en) 2011-04-14
EP2467116A1 (en) 2012-06-27
EP2467116A4 (en) 2015-08-12
MX2012002042A (en) 2012-04-11
JP5778151B2 (en) 2015-09-16
US9295607B2 (en) 2016-03-29
CN102711706A (en) 2012-10-03
KR20120062717A (en) 2012-06-14

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9295607B2 (en) Method and apparatus for non-invasive aesthetic treatment of skin and sub-dermis
US11918804B2 (en) Method and device for skin treatment by heating and muscle stimulation
KR101259768B1 (en) Method and device for minimally invasive skin and fat treatment
KR20130005126A (en) Hand piece for operating lipolysis
JP2023171963A (en) Needle tip to apply electric current
KR20080051495A (en) Nonconductive sting
KR100623208B1 (en) Massage Machine for Head Skin
CN108014418A (en) Blackhead-removing device
EP3952813B1 (en) Methods and systems for treatment of skin of a subject
KR100899100B1 (en) Skin treatment apparatus
KR20190094753A (en) Apparatus for operating using medium frequency current
KR102417653B1 (en) Cool and hot treatment system
US20220296911A1 (en) Skin treatment device using radio frequency
RU2781222C2 (en) Device for skin regeneration stimulation
KR101614136B1 (en) Radio-frequency hand piece

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 201080037061.5

Country of ref document: CN

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 10809627

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 217738

Country of ref document: IL

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2010286035

Country of ref document: AU

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 13389799

Country of ref document: US

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 20127004087

Country of ref document: KR

Kind code of ref document: A

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2012525249

Country of ref document: JP

Ref document number: MX/A/2012/002042

Country of ref document: MX

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2010286035

Country of ref document: AU

Date of ref document: 20100815

Kind code of ref document: A

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2010809627

Country of ref document: EP

REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: BR

Ref legal event code: B01A

Ref document number: 112012002204

Country of ref document: BR

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 112012002204

Country of ref document: BR

Kind code of ref document: A2

Effective date: 20120131