The Body Contouring Treatment That Actually Works

What is it?

Designed to combat stubborn pockets of fat, SculpSure is a cutting-edge laser treatment that permanently destroys fat cells. It’s non-surgical, non-invasive, has little-to-no downtime and takes only 25 minutes – meaning you can even have it on your lunch break.

The fat reduction treatment targets specific parts of the body – it can be carried out on most areas, but the stomach, flanks, upper arms and thighs are the most popular with patients. Each area treated will be left with around 25% less fat than before.

How does it work (and does it really work?)

SculpSure uses laser energy to heat fat cells under the skin (a process known as lipolysis), which damages their structural integrity. These damaged cells are then processed and eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system. The laser's heat also stimulates collagen and elastin production, which help the skin appear firmer.

And, yes, it really does work. The treatment is the first of its kind to be approved by the FDA in America and receive the CE Mark in Europe, meaning it’s been clinically proven to be both safe and effective.

Mr Bryan Mayou, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at London’s Cadogan Clinic, tells SL that SculpSure is his “technique of choice” for non-invasive fat reduction. While he believes liposuction is still the gold standard for sculpting body fat (and he would know: he was the first surgeon to bring the procedure to the UK), Mr Mayou says non-surgical techniques such as SculpSure and Coolsculpting (a popular fat-freezing procedure) have come a long way in recent years.

“Of these, SculpSure is much more comfortable, quicker to deliver and, of supreme importance, has minimal complications,” he told us, revealing that other treatments can cause fat to grow, rather than reduce, or leave lumpy results.

Who’s it suitable for?

“Non-surgical fat reduction techniques are excellent for slim and moderately curvy patients with stubborn areas,” says Dr Mayou. “Whilst SculpSure works for very large patients, relatively small amounts are removed on each occasion and it may not be so cost-effective.”

He explains the treatment is perfect for people with small, stubborn areas of fat, which will not shift after diet and exercise. As for those wanting to reduce larger areas of fat, he believes they may be better suited to liposuction – but stresses it’s important every patient is assessed by a clinic with a range of options to ensure the best treatment for them is recommended, as opposed to a one-size-fits-all approach.

SculpSure is suitable for all skin types and is even safe to have over tattoos. It’s not suitable for those pregnant or breastfeeding.

What does a SculpSure treatment entail?

Firstly, you’ll discuss your desired results with an aesthetician, who will place plastic frame templates on the area(s) of fat you want to reduce until you’re happy with the position. The area(s) being treated will then be cleansed and the templates placed on again and secured with a soft strap. Up to four templates can be used at one time.

The treatment takes a total of 25 minutes, during which you can sit back and relax. Once complete, the applicators and templates will be removed and, as it’s a ‘get-up-and-go’ procedure, you’ll be free to continue your day as normal (yes, you can even hit the gym straight away).

The area may be slightly red or tender afterwards – similar to how your muscles feel when you’ve done intense exercise – but this soon subsides. And as for aftercare, all patients are advised to do is drink plenty of water and massage the treated area gently each day to help stimulate circulation and speed up results.

Does it hurt?

The laser emits intermittent warming and cooling sensations, so while it’s not painful, you may feel a tingling sensation. According to Mr Mayou, this feeling can vary from person to person – if you do feel slight discomfort, he says it may help to remember SculpSure doesn’t cause any damage to skin tissue or muscles.

How long does it take to see results?

“Most of our patients see results from six weeks onwards after their treatment, as the destroyed fat cells are flushed out of the body,” Mr Mayou says. “We usually say that it can take 12 weeks to notice optimum results.”

And whilst SculpSure permanently destroys fat cells, you may need a second treatment session depending on your results and desired outcome. “Your practitioner will be able to advise how many sessions are needed and the duration between treatments following an initial consultation,” he adds.
 
For more information about SculpSure, or to book an appointment, visit CadoganClinic.com