Thomas Lanchoney, MD (closed)

Thanks for your question!

Sculpsure uses laser to destroy subcutaneous fat cells that your body then reabsorbs.  In our experience (and having it done to myself!) it has a cycling effect that heats the skin in short bursts that can become somewhat uncomfortable, then it cools.  It actually gets easier as the treatment progresses and truly lasts only  25 minutes.  The skin actually feels cool when you touch it after the laser is removed.  

Afterward, you can return to work immediately.  You will want to drink plenty of water and massage the area that was treated twice daily.  You see the results over the next 8-12 weeks.

Hope this helps!

Dr. L

Thank you for your question!

SculpSure is a laser based, noninvasive fat burning treatment that can be used on the thighs (recently  FDA cleared).  And, as I'm sure you've read, it can reduce fat by up to 24% with one treatment.  It does seem to also help with skin tightening although it doesn't have much effect on cellulite.  In our practice, we often combine SculpSure with Pelleve to take care of both fat burning and cellulite reduction.


Hope this helps!

Dr. L

Thanks so much for your question!  Sculpsure, as you know, uses laser technology to destroy fat cells, and creates heat during this.  The machine cycles through periods of heating and then recovers.  In our experience, the heating cycle is short enough that it remains very tolerable.  The whole treatment lasts 25 minutes and cooling cycles can be added if needed.

Some areas are more sensitive than others.  The flanks and arms for example, are often considered more sensitive than the lower abdomen.

Hope this helps!

Dr. L

Sculpsure is technically not FDA approved for use on the arms, however we have definitely had success in the right patients.  Like anything, patient selection is the key.  If if appears that there is a modest amount of fat present on your arms and not excessive skin, then Sculpsure may be an excellent choice for you.

Hope this helps!

Dr. L

As some of my colleagues have stated, it depends upon your goal.  If you're looking to improve the uniformity of your skin, reducing vascularity and pigmentation, then IPL is an excellent choice.  When it comes to acne scars, fine wrinkles, stretch marks, a nonablative, fractional laser works extremely well.  In many cases, these two treatments can be combined at the same setting.  It's certainly a good idea to meet with an experienced professional and determine what options are best for you.

Hope this helps!

Dr. L