My second treatment with SculpSure was painful even at the lowest setting. I only lasted 5 min. Is this normal?

Question

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is not abnormal for the patient to find a certain level of discomfort unbearable as we all have unique pain tolerances and reactions to each procedure. My suggestion is that you next consult in person with a board certified facial plastic surgeon and discuss a treatment plan for beginning your next SculpSure procedure with a lower setting.

Best wishes,

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.Sculpsure is a noninvasive 1060nm diode laser treatment that removes up to 25% of stubborn fat in the treated area in 25 minutes.It is FDA approved for the abdomen and flanks. It is safe if you get pregnant in the future.

The body contouring effects are seen in as quick as six weeks with final results at 12 weeks.

The results are permanent as long as you maintain your weight and health.

The laser targets and destroys the fat cells only which are then naturally removed from the body. Since the laser does not affect the skin or muscle it can be used on all skin colors and there has been no reported incidents of burns when treated by a properly trained physician. It is protective since it alternates heating and cooling.

It has four applicators that can be customized to treat the areas of stubborn fat.

If a second treatment is needed we wait at least six weeks and usually closer to 12.

If you notice lumps after (which I've never seen) I would recommend massage. You should also alert your surgeon.  No compression garment required.

There is no downtime and you can resume your normal activities right after the treatment. There may be some soreness in the area for a few days for which you can take ibuprofen or tylenol. A cold compress can also be used.

Sculpsure is not used for skin tightening however some of our patients have seen this. If more skin tightening is needed we have combined this with thermi or Ulthera for a complete treatment. Sculpsure is recommended for stubborn areas of fat that are not being lost by diet and exercise. It is not a weight loss treatment

Since I have both a coolsculpting and sculpsure I am working on protocols of utilizing both of these depending upon what areas need to be treated and the response to the treatment.

I have used sculpsure on other areas other than the abdomen with very good results.

I also use a Vectra 3D imaging system to try and show people what their treatment areas could look like.

Since Sculpsure outcomes can be based on technique and experience, please see a board certified plastic surgeon that specializes body contouring to see if Sculpsure or other treatments are available to meet your goals.

Take care,

Dr Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

Every pain experiences pain differently. Also, factors such as hormone levels and hydration seem to affect patient's experience. Speak with your technician about your discomfort so that he or she can lower the setting for your next treatment. Best of luck.

David Finkle, MD · Answer

It is unusual, but some patients cannot tolerate a SculpSure session.  Since you were successful with the first session, I would be willing to try again and see what happens.  Do not take any sedation or numb the skin before a session, the feedback is critical to obtaining the best possible result.

Patricia Faraz, MD · Answer

Hello Gmajune,Having pain with your 2nd SculpSure treatment is unusual. Being treated too close together, premenstrual, and taking medications that cause sensitivity can be a few factors that can contribute to being more sensitive with your 2nd treatment. Talk to your provider and see if there has been any changes since your 1st treatment. Hope this helps!

My second treatment with SculpSure was painful even at the lowest setting. I only lasted 5 min. Is this normal?

Answers (10)

Answer: Pain after SculpSure is very unusual

Answer: Pain after SculpSure is very unusual

Answer: SculpSure 2nd Treatment Sensitvity

Answer: SculpSure 2nd Treatment Sensitvity

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Everything you need to know about SculpSure

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

My second treatment with SculpSure was painful even at the lowest setting. I only lasted 5 min. Is this normal?

Answers (10)

Answer: Pain after SculpSure is very unusual

Answer: Pain after SculpSure is very unusual

Answer: SculpSure 2nd Treatment Sensitvity

Answer: SculpSure 2nd Treatment Sensitvity

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about SculpSure

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