Vacuum Massage

Why Vacuum Massage?

Vacuum massage is also known as depressomassage, vacuotherapy or Endermologie®. It is a non-invasive mechanical massage technique. It is performed with a mechanical device that lifts the skin by suction and creates a skin fold which can be mobilised. In the late 1970s, Louis-Paul Guitay developed the Endermologie® system (or LPG), this uses both suction (negative pressure) and mechanised rollers to mimic manual massage. LPG can provide consistent and effective treatment in a shorter time. Treatment sessions are painless and vary from 10 minutes to longer depending on the state and size of the scar.

Main improvements

Vacuum massage has shown beneficial results:

  • Improved scar thickness
  • Improved scar pliability
  • Reduced scar redness (erythema)
  • Reduced tethering and adherence of scars (stuck scars)
  • Reduced pain
  • Reduced oedema (swelling)

Adverse effects

Adverse effects that have been noticed:

  • Slight sensation of pain in the area after treatment. This resolves itself after a short period of time.
  • Mild swelling can be noticed in the area. This resolves itself after a short period of time.
  • Slight sensation of tightness around the treated area can be experienced

Recommendations

Caution should be applied when treating scars within the first 3 months of wound healing and when scars are still in the inflammation stage. Make sure that the epidermis is not too fragile for treatment.

The effectiveness and safety of vacuum massage is highly dependent on the operator of the device, it should be provided in a clinic by a scar specialist. A series of treatments over several weeks is most effective.

Photo of a vacuum massage device used on a scar
Photo of a vacuum massage device used on a scar in the neck

Used for

Adhesion | Atrophic scar | Burn scar | Contractures | Dryness | Horizontal keloid | Hypertrophic scar | Linear scar | Pliability | Redness | Small keloid | Thickness | Vertical keloid

F.A.Q.

How does vacuum therapy work for scars and how can it help improve their appearance?

Vacuum therapy for scars works through a mechanical massage technique where a device lifts the skin using suction, creating a skin fold that can be mobilized. This process stimulates blood circulation and collagen production, which gradually flattens and softens the scars. Additionally, loosening adhered scars helps improve the flexibility and appearance of the scar. With regular treatments, the texture and color of the scar can improve, making it less noticeable.

How long does it take to see results when using vacuum therapy for scars?

The time needed to see results from vacuum therapy for scars can vary depending on several factors, such as the severity of the scars, the frequency of treatments, and the individual's skin response to the therapy. Generally, improvements may become noticeable after a few sessions, but significant results can take some time to achieve. It's important to be patient and consistent with the treatments for optimal results.

Is vacuum therapy painful?

Vacuum therapy for scars is generally considered painless. Treatment sessions typically last 10 minutes or longer, depending on the scar, and are well-tolerated by most people. However, individual experiences can vary, and some may experience mild discomfort during the treatment, such as a slight pulling sensation or skin redness. It is important to discuss any concerns or discomfort with the specialist performing the treatment.