ZWave
Consultations offered at our seven convenient locations in Brea, Costa Mesa, Glendora, Lancaster, Rancho Cucamonga, Whittier and West Hollywood

ZWave is an ultrasound device that uses Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) to help reduce cellulite, improve lymphatic drainage, increase circulation, and firm up skin. It is a safe, noninvasive treatment that works quickly and can last for months or even years.
Cellulite is a condition that is caused by the uneven accumulation of fat underneath the skin. It is most common in women, but it can also affect men. It causes dimpled, lumpy skin on the thighs, hips, abdomen, and arms. Although it is not harmful, it can be difficult to get rid of. The advanced acoustic wave ZWave technology has changed how we treat cellulite and other skin imperfections, ensuring patients feel better about their bodies, and increasing their overall quality of life.
If you’re looking for a way to reduce the appearance of cellulite and improve your skin’s overall firmness and elasticity, ZWave may be the most effective solution. At Skin Perfect Medical Aesthetics, we are proud to offer this advanced treatment to our clients in Southern California. Schedule an appointment with us today by completing our online inquiry form or by calling your nearest Skin Perfect location at the relevant number below.
Rancho Cucamonga: (909) 281-9020
West Hollywood: (323) 373-3149
Contents
About Cellulite
An estimated 80% to 90% of women have cellulite. (1) It can appear on various different areas of the body, but it is most commonly found on the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. (2) Cellulite is caused by fat deposits that push up against the fibers below the surface of the skin, resulting in an uneven, lumpy texture, that is often compared to “orange-peel” or “cottage cheese”.
Although the precise reason why it appears isn’t clear, scientists think it is closely linked with estrogen levels. Weight, genetics, inflammation, lifestyle, and poor lymphatic drainage may also be factors. Men can get cellulite too, but where it does occur in male patients, it’s usually because of hormonal deficiencies.
Dimpling severity is measured in a number of ways, one of which is the Nürnberger-Müller Scale. (2)
- Stage 0: There is no skin dimpling when standing or lying down. There are furrows when the skin is pinched, but the skin is not “mattress-like”.
- Stage 1: There is no skin dimpling when standing or lying down. The skin is “mattress-like” when it is pinched.
- Stage 2: Dimpling spontaneously appears when standing up but not when lying down.
- Stage 3: Dimpling spontaneously appears when standing up and when lying down.
What is AWT?
AWT is a revolutionary form of ultrasound therapy used to treat cellulite. It works by sending sound waves through the affected areas to break down fat deposits and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin fibers. This helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite and smooth out the skin.
How ZWave Works
ZWave uses a handpiece that emits radial shockwave pulses. These pulses penetrate the skin, targeting fat cells and stimulating the lymphatic system to promote drainage and circulation. This helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite and improves skin texture and elasticity in just a few treatments.
Research shows that although AWT requires several treatment sessions, it does not require topical anesthesia, and results in little discomfort. (3)
Benefits of ZWave
The benefits of ZWave Radial Pulse Therapy include:
- Reduces the appearance of cellulite
- Increases circulation and lymphatic drainage
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Non-invasive, safe procedure
- Quick results with no downtime
- Long-lasting effects
- Can be used on all body parts
Candidates
Most patients with noticeable cellulite will be able to undergo a course of ZWave treatments. However, the procedure isn’t for everyone. The following conditions will prevent you from receiving ZWave treatment.
- If you have a vascular condition in or near the area of treatment (e.g. varicose veins)
- If you have a local infections in the area of treatment
- If you have a malignant or benign tumor in the area of treatment
- If you have a condition that could cause a change in blood clotting ability (e.g. pregnancy)
- If you have a neurological disease that could cause involuntary movement
ZWave is also not recommended in the following areas:
- Directly on bones and cartilages of the spinal column, and on areas above air-filled spaces (e.g. the ribs)
- Directly over an electrical implant (e.g. pacemaker)
- In areas where vibration may cause tissue damage (e.g. close to a metal implant)
- In areas of swelling, inflammation, or skin infection
Personal Consultation
A personal consultation at Skin Perfect will determine whether ZWave is right for you. After assessing your medical history and discussing your cosmetic concerns, we will examine your skin and underlying structures. Your individual anatomy and goals are important considerations when it comes to this treatment. Following your consultation, Dr. Kwok will be able to recommend the best course of action for your needs.
Contact Skin Perfect Medical Aesthetics today to schedule a consultation for your ZWave treatment. We can answer any questions you have about the procedure so that you can make a confident, well-informed decision. To book an appointment with one of our skin specialists, call our general inquiry number at (844) 898-1080.
Find more information about skin treatments at Skin Perfect by reading our blog.
Procedure
Before your procedure begins, you’ll have the opportunity to review the details of your treatment. Once you are ready to begin, the ZWave device is calibrated to your exact anatomical specifications and you are invited to lie comfortably, face up, or face down, depending on the specifics of your treatment plan. Your skin specialist will tell you what to expect before beginning the procedure. The handpiece may be passed over the skin in slightly different ways, depending on the area of treatment.
During the treatment, your skin specialist will use the ZWave handpiece to deliver short bursts of low-energy pulsations to the affected area. The pulses help to stimulate the metabolism of fat cells and collagen production, resulting in smoother, tighter skin. Depending on the size of the treatment area, your procedure may take anywhere between 20 minutes to 40 minutes.
Recovery & Results

After your ZWave treatment, you may notice some initial swelling and bruising. You may feel slight discomfort, but it should subside quickly. In the period immediately after treatment, the targeted area is wrapped in supportive dressings to help manage swelling.
Most patients can return to their normal activities within 24 hours. ZWave results typically become noticeable after 2-3 weeks and continue to improve over the course of several months. Please keep in mind that multiple treatments may be necessary for optimal results.
Cost of Cellulite Treatment in Whittier, CA
The cost of your ZWave treatment will depend on the area(s) of cellulite you want to treat and the length and complexity of your procedure. Financing may be available for qualified patients.
Contact your nearest Skin Perfect location at one of the numbers below for more information.
Rancho Cucamonga: (909) 281-9020
West Hollywood: (323) 373-3149
FAQ
What is acoustic wave therapy?
Acoustic wave therapy is a non-surgical, non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to treat cellulite. These sound waves target the fat deposits that cause cellulite, and help to break them down. The sound waves also stimulate the production of collagen, which helps to improve the skin’s overall tone and texture. This treatment is safe and has been proven to be effective in reducing the appearance of cellulite.
What results can I expect from acoustic wave therapy?
The results from acoustic wave therapy, such as ZWave, vary from patient to patient, depending on their individual needs. Most patients begin to see results after their first few treatments. After a full course of treatments, patients can expect to see a reduction in the appearance of cellulite, as well as improved tone and texture in the skin. Results are long-lasting, but may require touch-up treatments over time.
What areas can be treated with ZWave?
ZWave can be used to treat cellulite in almost any area of the body. Common treatment areas include the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, arms, and neck.
Is cellulite treatment painful?
The treatments used to reduce the appearance of cellulite are typically not painful. Some mild discomfort is normal during the procedure, but it should not be unbearable. If you experience any pain during your cellulite treatment, please let Dr. Kwok know and he will adjust the settings or take other steps to make sure your comfort level is maximized.
How many ZWave treatments will I need?
Most patients require between 5-10 treatments, spaced two weeks apart, to achieve maximum results. However, each patient is different, so Dr. Kwok will design a customized plan specific to your needs.
Can ZWave be used to treat any other conditions?
The ZWave device is a state-of-the-art therapeutic massager designed with the sole purpose of addressing superficial skin conditions, particularly cellulite.
References
- Luebberding S, Krueger N, Sadick NS. Cellulite: An Evidence-Based Review. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2015;16(4):243-256. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-015-0129-5
- Young VL, DiBernardo BE. Comparison of Cellulite Severity Scales and Imaging Methods. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. Published online August 12, 2020. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjaa226
- Sadick N. Treatment for cellulite. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology. 2019;5(1):68-72. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2018.09.002