Current practice update: Dr. Smith's practice does not currently offer Emtone. The current Emtone information page provides educational context. This recording describes the treatment as it was discussed in 2020.
What is Emtone, and how was it intended to address cellulite? Darren M. Smith, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, explains a combination of radiofrequency heating and pressure-wave treatment, and discusses why individual cellulite patterns matter when evaluating options.
Originally published October 28, 2020. Treatment availability, protocols, comparisons and invitations in the audio are historical.
Key takeaways
🧬 Cellulite texture and anatomy
The episode distinguishes dimpling and wavy skin texture and describes the role of skin, underlying fat and fibrous connective tissue.
⚙️ Radiofrequency and pressure
Emtone combines warming from radiofrequency energy with mechanical pressure or tapping.
🔎 Treatment complexity
Dr. Smith emphasizes that cellulite is difficult to treat and that different patterns may call for different approaches.
🗓️ Sessions and maintenance
The recording discusses a treatment series and possible maintenance, rather than a one-time permanent removal of cellulite.
🧩 Historical combination treatments
The historical discussion of combining treatments does not establish current availability or guarantee faster recovery from surgery.
🎧 Episode guide
00:00 — Introduction
01:05 — Cellulite appearance and contributing factors
02:47 — Radiofrequency and pressure-wave treatment
04:34 — Why assessment matters
05:30 — The treatment experience
06:14 — Historical treatment series and maintenance
💬 Common questions
Does the episode describe permanent cellulite removal?
No. Dr. Smith discusses variable response and periodic maintenance. The audio's optimistic durability statements should not be taken as a guarantee that cellulite cannot return.
What does the treatment feel like?
The recording describes warmth and a tapping sensation from the external handpiece. Comfort varies, so this description is not a promise that treatment is painless.
Can I book Emtone at this practice now?
The practice's current page says it does not offer Emtone. A consultation can instead address the underlying concern and available options.
ℹ️ Current related information
See current information about Avéli cellulite treatment and BodyTite for skin laxity, or schedule a consultation. These are current related resources, not additions to the original recording.
Qwo, also mentioned in the audio, is historical context: Endo announced the end of Qwo production and sales in December 2022.
About the host — current biography
Darren M. Smith, MD, FACS specializes in mommy makeover surgery, breast surgery, and body contouring in Manhattan. He was named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026 and has co-authored authoritative peer-reviewed publications on combined breast surgery and abdominoplasty and the surgical care of postpartum patients.
Educational information, not individualized medical advice. Treatment risks, suitability and results vary. Show notes updated September 30, 2026.
Full transcript and related resources
