Shockwave vs RF for Cellulite
Radial Pressure Waves vs Tripolar Radiofrequency | Marylebone For current treatment details and booking information, see Cellulite Treatment London.
Shockwave and radiofrequency are both offered at 3D Lipo London for body and cellulite-related concerns, but they are not the same treatment. This guide explains the difference without claiming that one technology is universally better.
Last updated: 19 September 2026
Quick comparison
| Feature | Shockwave | Radiofrequency |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Radial pressure waves generated by compressed air | Tripolar 1 MHz, 50 W RF with integrated vacuum |
| Clinic focus | Cellulite/skin-texture treatment | Skin tightening and firmness; may also be used in cellulite plans |
| Single session | £79 | £89 |
| Course price | 8 sessions £569 | 6 sessions £499; 8 sessions £659 |
| Weight loss? | No | No |
How shockwave works
The 3D-lipo UltimatePro uses a radial pressure-wave handpiece. The manufacturer describes compressed air driving a projectile inside the handpiece and transferring mechanical energy through the applicator. It is positioned specifically for cellulite treatment.
How RF works
The same UltimatePro platform includes tripolar 1 MHz, 50 W radiofrequency with integrated vacuum. RF delivers controlled energy that heats tissue and is positioned by the manufacturer for skin tightening and cellulite/body applications.
Current UltimatePro manufacturer specification.
What does independent research say?
A 2025 systematic review covering 24 randomised controlled trials and 2,084 participants found promising findings for shock-wave therapy and radiofrequency among cellulite treatments, while rating the overall evidence as moderate. Device type and protocol matter, so those studies should not be treated as a guarantee for an individual clinic treatment.
A separate 2024 systematic review concluded that the methodological quality of many electrophysical cellulite studies remained poor, reinforcing the need for cautious claims.
2025 systematic review · 2024 systematic review
Current Prices
- Shockwave single session — £79
- Shockwave 8 sessions — £569
- RF single session — £89
- RF 6 sessions — £499
- RF 8 sessions — £659
- 8 RF + 6 Shockwave — £1,199
- 8 RF + 8 Shockwave — £1,229
These figures are taken from Prices page, the current source for clinic pricing.
Which treatment might be discussed for which goal?
Visible cellulite texture: shockwave is the clinic's dedicated radial pressure-wave cellulite option. · RF skin tightening guide
Skin firmness or laxity: RF may be discussed where tightening is an important part of the goal.
Mixed concerns: the clinic's price list includes RF + shockwave combinations, but combining treatments should have a clear rationale rather than assuming that more treatment automatically means a better result.
Localised fat pocket: this is a different goal. Depending on suitability, a separate treatment such as fat freezing or cavitation may be relevant instead of treating cellulite as if it were excess fat.
Safety and suitability
Both treatments require a suitability assessment. Tell the clinic about medical history, medicines, recent procedures and changes in the treatment area. Do not stop prescribed medication yourself. Treatment-specific contraindications and aftercare should be confirmed during consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between shockwave and RF for cellulite?
Shockwave uses mechanical radial pressure waves. RF uses controlled radiofrequency energy. They are different technologies and may be selected for different aspects of a cellulite or skin-firmness concern.
Which costs less?
Current standalone prices are £79 for one shockwave session and £89 for one RF session. Course and combination prices are shown on the clinic price page.
Can shockwave and RF be combined?
Yes. The current price page lists 8 RF + 6 Shockwave at £1,199 and 8 RF + 8 Shockwave at £1,229. A combination should still be chosen for a reason, not simply because more treatments sound better.
Which treatment has stronger evidence?
Published research is promising for both shock-wave therapy and radiofrequency, but studies vary in device type, protocol and quality. A 2025 systematic review found promising results for both and rated the overall evidence as moderate.
Do either of these treatments cause weight loss?
No. They are aesthetic body treatments and should not be presented as weight-loss treatments.
How do I choose?
Start with the visible concern and suitability. If texture is the main concern, shockwave may be discussed; if skin firmness is a major concern, RF may be discussed. Some clients may be suited to a combination.
Next steps
- Cellulite Treatment London - main page
- Shockwave Cellulite Treatment
- RF Skin Tightening
- Can Cellulite Be Removed?
- Current Prices
A £30 booking deposit secures an in-person consultation. The deposit is fully redeemable against treatment and is refundable if you attend and decide not to proceed. Please give at least 72 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule. A no-show loses the £30 deposit and rebooking after a no-show requires a new £30 deposit. If you arrive late, the appointment may need to be shortened so later bookings are not delayed.
Discuss Shockwave vs RF in Marylebone
Call 07763 566 574 to book a consultation.