UltraShape

About UltraShape

UltraShape, founded in Israel in 2000 by plastic surgeon Dr. Ami Glicksman and physicist Dr. Yoram Eshel, developed a non-invasive body contouring solution. Both founders were military veterans who applied their expertise to create a safer alternative to surgical procedures like liposuction. Dr. Eshel, who holds a PhD in Physics and an MBA, served as the company's CEO from its inception until 2007. Dr. Glicksman had a background in researching ultrasound waves.

The company's business is centered on the development and sale of medical aesthetic devices to practitioners such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and cosmetic clinics. Revenue is generated through the direct sale of these devices, often coupled with service agreements for maintenance and training. In February 2012, UltraShape was acquired by Syneron Medical Ltd. (now Candela) for approximately $12 million, integrating its technology into a larger portfolio of aesthetic products.

UltraShape's core product is a system that uses pulsed, focused ultrasound technology to selectively destroy fat cells without harming surrounding tissues like skin, blood vessels, and nerves. This non-thermal, mechanical process, known as cavitation, causes fat cell membranes to rupture. The released triglycerides are then naturally processed by the body's liver and lymphatic system. The procedure is designed for individuals who are close to their ideal weight but have stubborn, localized fat deposits in areas like the abdomen, flanks, and thighs that are resistant to diet and exercise. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved an UltraShape device in 2014 for the reduction of abdominal circumference. Subsequent versions, like UltraShape Power which delivers higher energy, received FDA clearance in 2016.

A typical treatment session lasts about an hour, is reported to be comfortable, and requires no anesthesia or downtime, allowing clients to resume daily activities immediately. For optimal results, a series of treatments, often three sessions spaced two weeks apart, is commonly recommended. Clinical studies have shown significant reductions in fat layer thickness, with one study of the UltraShape Power system noting a 32% reduction in the abdominal fat layer.