Is Emsculpt really safe?

Question

I have read that electromagnetic energy can cause cancer. If that is the case then how can this new device be safe? I understand it is FDA-approved, but I'm still trying to understand the safety aspect.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Cafn8d,Great question, many patients are concerned about the safety of Emsculpt.  Prior to offering any technology or new treatment to my patients I must be sure that the treatment is both safe and effective.  Emsculpt meets both of those criteria.  The National Cancer Institute has an article that explains the difference between safe and dangerous electromagnetic energy (see below under Web reference for complete article link.)  Basically, low frequency electromagnetic energy (used in Emsculpt) is safe, high frequency electromagnetic energy (like X-rays) are not.  BTL, the company that manufactures Emsculpt has used EM energy for many years in the therapeutic treatment of muscles without any adverse events.  There have been no reported complications of Emsculpt.  Prior to treatment, the treating physician must take a complete history of the patient to make sure that there are no contraindications to treatment that would cause problems such as metal implants, pacemakers, hernias, and other medical conditions.  Make sure to choose your treating physician most carefully.Good luck and be well.Dr. PEncino, CA

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

I would have asked the same thing and thats why I have throughly read all the FDA approved documents and similar to other types of electromagnetic energy EM SCULPT has been shown to be completely safe

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

Certain electromagnetic frequencies can damage our DNA and cause cancer, but these are very high frequencies like X-rays, not the type that the EMSculpt uses. EMSculpt is safe. The electromagnetic energy EMSculpt emits causes hypercontractions of the underlying muscles. Regarding the abdomen, after four treatments over a two week period, studies showed a 16% increase in muscle with a 19% decrease in the overlying fat. There was also a 4cm reduction in the circumference of the waist. Overall, patients tell us they feel that their core is stronger. Many have even said they can do certain exercises, like planks, better and longer. EMSculpt can also be used on the buttocks. It lifts and augments. That treatment does not effect the fat like the abdomen. Overall it's pretty amazing technology.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Quintessa Aesthetic Centers

Nicole Hayre, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question.  As of right now, there are no side effects of the Emsculpt device.  The EmSculpt has been used in some centers in Europe for over five years.  So, although EmSculpt is new in the United States, it does have a longer history.  Please seek a certified health care provider to determine if you are an ideal candidate for the procedure.

Katherine Dee, MD · Answer

Emsculpt uses magnetic pulses to create contractions in the muscle, similar to an MRI machine. There is no radiation, just like MRI. And just like MRI, there is no risk of cancer. The risks with both MRI and Emsculpt are purely related to whether there is any metal in the field. Thus no pacemakers in either device.

Is Emsculpt really safe?

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Answer: Emsculpt and safety

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Is Emsculpt really safe?

Answers (10)

Answer: Emsculpt Treatment

Answer: Emsculpt Treatment

Answer: Emsculpt and safety

Answer: Emsculpt and safety

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Emsculpt

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.