Any thoughts on timing/frequency and its effect on results?

Question

I am really confused by the timing of these treatments. Some offices do one treatment once a week. Some offices do two-three treatments in a week. Surely different timing/frequency of treatments means different results, including how it looks 2-6months out.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is recommended to do 4 Emsculpt treatments spaced 2-3 days apart for 2 weeks for best results. Each 30 minute treatment is equivalent to doing 20,000 sit-ups or squats. It is also recommended to come back for maintenance treatments in 6-8 months. It is best to consult with a Medical Esthetician at a Board Certified Plastic Surgeons office.

Robert Morin, MD, FACS · Answer

The studies performed by BLT, the manufacturer of Emsculpt, for FDA clearance, are all based on 4 treatments, performed over an approximately 2 week period. I have seen great results after 4 treatments. However, in my experience, I have found that the best results are seen after 6 treatments, all performed within 3 weeks, two times per week, no more frequently than every 48 hours.

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

There is a lot of variety out there in timing, but the studies that were done on EMSculpt show that 4 treatments over two weeks seemed to maximize the effectiveness of the treatments. That doesn't mean that more treatments over time won't help, they will. And fewer treatments won't be as effective. However, I think that the body needs to heal and build the muscle and that can take months. My personal recommendation is 4-6 treatments, then wait at least 2 months or more before considering any additional treatments. My own personal results started to diminish after about  6 months so we recommend quarterly maintenance treatments. I hope that helps.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Quintessa

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

EMSculpt recommendations are as follows: 4 treatments spaced out over a 2 week span. Repeat treatments are typically delayed 6 months in order to truly evaluate the effects of the first series. That being said, there should not necessarily be any harm from an alteration in the prescribed frequency. The more treatments in a given period, the more difficult it becomes to discern the actual yield per course.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic
Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Dendy Engelman, MD · Answer

It depends on desired results but there is such a thing as too much! In our practice we recommend two treatments a week for two consecutive weeks. Depending on the patient, they may need more treatments to achieve desired results. Once results are achieved patients can come back once a month for maintenance.

Philip A. Rettenmaier, DO · Answer

The original studies used to get FDA approval of Emsculpt used 2 treatments twice a week for a total of 4 treatments. Follow up treatments could probably be done once weekly or even less frequently.

Richard E. Moore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The studies that were performed for FDA clearance of Emsculpt involved 4 treatments spread over 2 weeks and separated by 2-3 days. Additional treatments beyond the initial 4 treatments showed marginal improvement, i.e. 6 treatments just a little better than 4. Just because the data to the FDA used this protocol does not mean this is the optimal protocol. However, it is very difficult to assess the effects of an alternative protocol in a single practice and individual biases can become a problem interpreting the results. Most offices are following the protocol as recommended by BTL and I would recommend seeking out a provider following BTL's protocol.I hope this was helpful - Dr. Moore.

Jamé Heskett, MD · Answer

Hi, 
So the protocol that the company BTL (the manufacturer of the machine), and the protocol that was evaluated by the FDA is the following....
4,  30 minute sessions spaced 2-3 weeks apart. Best not to be done within 24 hours of the previous treatment. Preliminary results should come around 1 month (think working out when you would see results from lifting weights 3 times a week)......cells need time to develop. I find that most clients FEEL different before they LOOK different. 
Maintenance is recommended to be 2-3 sessions every 3-4 mos depending on your regular fitness regimen. I will tell you that I did no sessions for 6 months ( without doing much in the gym) and looked and felt the same after my initial results....so I know it lasts. However, we often have clients who want to come in 1 time per month because they feel it benefits them to do that.... 
I hope this settles your questions, 
All the best, 
Dr. Jamé

Any thoughts on timing/frequency and its effect on results?

Answers (8)

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