BODY SLIMMING DEVICES: REAL OR UNREAL

Background: Obesity is a global public health problem, emerging epidemic with changes in dietary habits and physical activity levels in both developed and developing countries. Obesity and overweight are defined as abnormal and excessive accumulation of fat in the body, which may impair one s health status. Body fatness is evaluated by various parameters such as body mass index and waist circumference. Due to the numerous comorbidities of obesity, there are various medical therapies available, one of which is the use of slimming or body contouring devices. Methods: A search of Pubmed, Google scholar and the Cochrane databases was done for systemic reviews, review articles, meta-analysis and randomized clinical trials up to February 2020. The keywords were subcutaneous fat, cellulite, obesity, noninvasive body contouring.Results: Body contouring devices include: Mechanical Suction, Thermal-Mechanical Suction, Radiofrequency, Ultrasonic Waves, Cryolipolysis, Low-Level Laser and Microwave. These devices are noninvasively associated with the death of adipocytes, resulting in cellulite depletion, fat reduction, tightening and body shaping. Based on the evidence, these devices are effective for individuals with BMI <30 and localized fat and should be used accompanied with diet and physical activity to get the best results.Conclusion: Although complications are usually short-term and a few side effects reported with using body contouring devices, however, more clinical trials are needed to support the safety issue and effectiveness in short and long-terms.