Written by Dr. Paul M. Graham
Over the past decade, dermatologists and researchers have worked diligently to develop a nonsurgical body contouring device that effectively eliminates stubborn body fat. Today, there are many ways to destroy fat cells via cold temperatures, injectable medications, or even energy-based heating. The FDA has approved the use of SculpSure®, a non-invasive 1060 nm laser for the treatment of stubborn body fat, for the abdomen, flanks, back, inner and outer thighs, and most recently, the submental (double chin) region. This device works by heating the underlying fat cells to approximately 42-47 degrees Celsius, causing the destruction of the fat cell wall, and subsequent natural elimination by the body over time. The result of this treatment is permanent fat destruction without the need for invasive surgical procedures or the associated downtime.
The SculpSure® laser light has a high affinity for fat cells with minimal absorption in the more superficial layers of the skin (epidermis and dermis). It is this affinity that allows for typically no downtime following the treatment. Unlike some other popular body contouring fat reduction devices, SculpSure® does not utilize suction as part of the applicator attachment. This allows for natural looking results due to laser divergence to surrounding treatment area.
One of the benefits of this device is the ability to customize the treatment based on the versatility of applicators that are designed for treatment of almost all body shapes and sizes. This allows for a more personalized treatment plan for every individual and allows for the treatment of multiple body sites simultaneously.
During the treatment, up to four applicators are placed on the skin using specialized straps. Additionally, contact cooling is utilized to assist with patient comfort. The treatment cycle last approximately 25 minutes and during that time, you have the ability to read a book, watch television, browse the internet, or even send emails.
At any time during the procedure you feel uncomfortable, the device can be adjusted to lower energy settings. During the treatment, most patients report a warming and tingling sensation that eventually diminishes throughout the procedure, but is generally well tolerated. Patients often start to notice results as early as 6 weeks following their treatment as the body begins the process of fat elimination from the treated area, with more noteworthy results often seen around 12 weeks and improvement often continues for 6-9 months after treatment. Patients may also experience some skin tightening over time as well. One study of over 100 patients found an average of 24% fat reduction1. Another study demonstrated a 90% patient satisfaction level following their treatment with SculpSure®2.
Overall, SculpSure® is a well-tolerated procedure that typically has no associated downtime which produces lasting elimination of stubborn body fat over a gradually time. This treatment is especially useful for those individuals that have had significant difficulty in getting rid of stubborn body fat despite the use of diet and exercise.
Schedule your complimentary appointment today for a comprehensive evaluation to see if SculpSure® is right for you.
References:
- Average reduction in fat volume following single treatment as measured by MRI; Clinical and Histological Evaluations of a 1060nm Laser Device for Non-Invasive Fat Reduction, John W. Decorato, M.D., FACS. Rafael Sierra, Ph.D., Bo Chen, Ph.D., Westford, MA, 2014.
- Katz B, Doherty S. A multicenter study of the safety and efficacy of a non-invasive 1060 nm diode laser for fat reduction of the flanks. Paper presented at: 2015 Annual American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Conference; April 22-26; Kissimmee, FL.
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