Acoustic wave therapy costs $500 on average for one session, according to 15 reviews on RealSelf from people who have tried the treatment. The price of a series of treatments can range as high as $3,000.
Acoustic wave therapy (AWT) is a noninvasive procedure that can be used to improve the appearance of cellulite. Pulses of pressure waves sent to the lower layers of the skin promote collagen production and relax the stiff, fibrous bands that pull the skin down and create that “dimpled” look.
This versatile treatment is also used to create smoother results after liposuction or nonsurgical fat reduction treatments.
Another form of acoustic wave therapy, sometimes called shockwave therapy, treats erectile dysfunction (ED) by improving blood flow to the penis. Acoustic wave therapy for ED costs about $500 for an in-office treatment.
Read on to learn AWT treatment costs can vary and whether real patients think the results are worth the money.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Acoustic Wave Therapy
Acoustic wave therapy boasts a 67% Worth It Rating on RealSelf, though it’s worth noting that this rating is based on just 6 recent patient reviews.
While it doesn’t yet have the same type of solid track record as some other cellulite treatment options (like BodyFX), those who have shared their experience say the treatment was mostly painless and delivered enough of an improvements in either the appearance of cellulite or their sexual health to make it worth the investment.
An experienced provider can assess whether this is the best treatment option for your concerns and budget. Especially if your cellulite is severe, you may get better results from a treatment like subcision, which actually severs the fibrous bands that cause dimpling.
The price you'll pay for this treatment will depend on:
Acoustic wave therapy can be performed by a broad range of practitioners, ranging from medical estheticians and physical therapists to board-certified MDs.
In most cases, a procedure that’s performed by a provider with more experience and training will come with fewer risks and side effects. This is less of a concern with acoustic wave therapy, because the most common side effects (bruising, swelling, and soreness) are typically mild and last for just a few days.
Look for a provider who specializes in treating your specific concern with more than one type of procedure. They’ll be more likely to be able to tailor your treatment plan to the one that will give you the best results.
Along with making sure they have credentials and experience you can trust, pay attention to patient reviews. And especially if you’re seeing them for cellulite treatment, ask to see a before and after photo gallery of their patients' results.
Factors like higher rent costs can ramp up the prices of elective treatments like this one in major cities like New York City and Los Angeles, where providers have to charge more to offset their expenses.
If you’re looking for more competitive pricing on acoustic wave therapy treatments, look for a qualified provider outside of the most expensive neighborhoods.
Most patients need 12 sessions of acoustic wave therapy over the course of six weeks to see results, though you may need more or fewer appointments to achieve your goals.
During a consultation, your provider will work with you to create a customized treatment plan. Ask for a written quote that includes the cost per session and total price for the treatment series.
Some providers offer package pricing, with a discount if you pay up-front. This can be a good way to save if you plan to complete an entire series.
As we mentioned earlier, AWT is sometimes paired with fat reduction procedures like liposuction or CoolSculpting.
As you’d expect, combining treatments increases your total cost. But some providers are also willing to give you a discount if you add on another treatment—so it doesn’t hurt to ask.
Beyond package pricing, some providers offer seasonal AWT deals. If you’re willing to wait for one, follow their practice on social media or sign up for marketing emails, so you don’t miss any specials.
You may also see acoustic wave therapy treatment packages on discount sites. There are certainly reputable providers on sites like these, but not all practitioners are equally skilled. Do your research ahead of booking to ensure your treatment will be performed by someone reputable and experienced.
Yes, those with good credit can usually finance elective treatments like this one. Many providers offer monthly payment plans at low or no interest, but you can also consider options like CareCredit.