Is it possible that SculpSure won't work?

Question

I had two treatments, 6pads (upper and lower abdominals), and 4 pads on flanks (2 on each side). I see some improvements but not dramatic so I want to go again for my abdominals. Knowing the technology and how it works, how is it possible that it won't work for someone? It's simple - it kills up to 24% of your fat cells per treatment. Is it possible that some fat cells are more 'stubborn' for some people? I'm 4'11, 95llbs, 34yrs old

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

This is a good question! Thank you for the great question.  I am sure many people are also wondering the same thing.  Cynosure says that sculpsure takes up to 12 weeks to see results, so it is probably still too early.  It may be that the fat cells are visceral or that results are just minimal because there is not a lot of fat for target on you.  It works by heat destroying fat cells and tightening the skin but the laser only penetrates so far and does not go through deeper structures well.  I recommend that you follow up with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has cosmetic training or experience with sculpsure.

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is important that patients are good candidates for SculpSure. Please discuss your treatment plan with your medical team and board certified facial plastic surgeon.
Best wishes,

Dilip D. Madnani, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, on some patients, the results are as you have experienced, on other patients the results are better- its best for those stubborn areas that not respond well to exercise. Some patients require a third session for even better improvement.

Elizabeth Whitaker, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello hdofc2014!As you noted Sculpsure can reduce up to 24% of stubborn fat in a treatment, but individual results will vary as is true with all noninvasive fat reduction technology.  The results are gradual and usually evaluated 12 weeks after the second treatment to truly assess the effectiveness, which usually will be evident in before and after images.  No response at all would be unusual.  Additional treatments to address the areas are always an option if needed.  I hope you find this helpful.All my best!Dr. Elizabeth"This information has been provided without seeing the patient and should not be construed as medical advice."

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer without pictures. Keep in mind, with Sculpsure, a combination of treatments is needed. I recommend combining Sculpsure with Vanquish and Venus Legacy/Exilis Ultra treatments. However, a VASER hi definition procedure would give you the best results with fat removal, contouring and definition. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Benjamin Gonzalez, MD · Answer

Cynosure SculpSure treatments can vary from patient to patient depending on age and health status along with provider technique. Individual response to inflammation can vary widely. There are certain techniques that can improve the sensitivity of fat cells to the treatment that include small diet changes, the use of certain medications, and procedure technique. Consider a full metabolic workup by a functional medicine physician that includes a nutrition evaluation that may make your response more effective.

Taaly Silberstein, MD · Answer

Each SculpSure treatment kills 24% of fat cells in that area, so having 2 treatments should be enough to see a visible result. Because the clearing of the fat cells is gradual (over weeks to months), it is possible you are not noticing the results as markedly. One suggestion is to compare pictures from before the treatments and one taken about 3 months after the second treatment. If you didn't gain any weight, the difference should be noticeable. If you aren't happy with the results, you can always have more treatments; there are no downsides.
Good luck!

Judy Corbett, MD, FACOG · Answer

It is uncommon for one to not see a noticeable reduction in a targeted area especially if before and after pics are taken.  Of course everyone has different body types and compositions.  Your BMI is 19 -normal.  I would not expect you to need multiple sessions as you describe.  People with BMI >30 usually do require multiple areas and even more than 2 sessions.

Neda Vanden Bosch, MD · Answer

Unfortunately there is a small percentage of people who do not respond to SculpSure. It is unpredictable who those people are. The degree of improvement also varies from person to person. I have had patients in my practice come in saying it did not work and when we took their follow up pictures and measurements they actually showed a reduction to the amount of fat in the treatment area. It is importation that during your consultation the provider was able to understand your expectations and not over promise and under produce. In 3 years of having out device we have only had 1 patient who truly did not get any improvement despite all of our efforts.

Lawrence Eisenhauer, MD · Answer

SculpSure Is not magic. Each patient responds differently to the insult of heat that sets up an inflammatory reaction in the target fat tissue. We all handle inflammation differently depending on our genetics, anti-inflammatory medicines, inflammatory medical conditions, age etc. There is no particular reason why given the inflammatory reaction that your body should not have some response to the procedure. Some people need a third application.Remember, this is non-invasive and subject to individual reaction.

Is it possible that SculpSure won't work?

Answers (12)

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