Evolution of Body Sculpting Technologies
There is increasing interest in body shaping technologies. Probably the most appealing part of body shaping is the possibility of reducing collections of fat. This field evolved from liposuction with large cannulas under general anesthesia several years ago to laser-assisted liposuction with small cannulas (SmartLipo™) under local anesthesia. From minimally invasive techniques like SmartLipo™, additional research has led to the development of non-invasive technology such as cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting®), originally approved by the FDA in 2010.
With new techniques being introduced, it may become very confusing for the consumer to figure out which technology to turn to. Over the next several months, we will hear more about one of the “new kids on the block,” SculpSure®. What do we know about SculpSure® and how does it compare to CoolSculpting®?
Dr. Normand Miller is committed to educating his patients on the efficacy of new technologies. At the Aesthetic & Vein Center MD, we can help you to understand the advantages and disadvantages of new body contouring technologies and Dr. Miller can advise if you are a good candidate for a specific body shaping technology.
Dr. Miller has evaluated two leading technologies for body contouring. The following are his answers to some frequently asked questions on how the two major technologies work and on their differences.
If you have any further questions or would like a consultation, please contact our office at 603-898-3461.
Is SculpSure® the same thing as CoolSculpting®?
SculpSure® and CoolSculpting® are not the same, despite the fact that their names are similar. However, both are body shaping technologies that are designed to obtain a long-lasting reduction of fat cells or fat collections.*
What are the similarities between SculpSure® and CoolSculpting®?
- Both technologies disrupt the fat cells, which are then naturally dissolved by the body over a period of time.*
- Both reduce fat cells with one round of treatment.*
- Both are non-invasive with little to no significant downtime.*
- Both are associated with minimal discomfort.*
What is the difference between SculpSure® and CoolSculpting®?
The major difference is that CoolSculpting® technology relies on controlled cooling or freezing of the fat cells (cryolipolysis) while SculpSure® technology is laser-based.
Are both technologies approved by the FDA?
Yes, both technologies are approved by the FDA but only for certain areas of the body. CoolSculpting® is FDA-approved for the treatment of the abdomen, flanks and thighs. SculpSure® is currently approved for the abdomen and flanks.
What areas can be treated?
With CoolSculpting® we can treat the abdomen, love handles, bra rolls, inner thighs, outer thighs and neck (under the chin, in the midline). On the other hand, the experience accumulated with SculpSure® has been with the abdomen and the love handles.
Are both technologies safe?
As they are approved by the FDA, they are considered safe procedures. SculpSure® has just been released through the FDA. On the other hand, CoolSculpting® has been approved since 2010, with 15 years of research and development behind it. There are over 40 published clinical papers and abstracts on the CoolSculpting® procedure regrouping over 4,000 study patients.
In addition, world experience with CoolSculpting® is phenomenal, with over 2.5 million cycles of CoolSculpting® completed in 72 countries.
Is one technology better than the other?
Since experience with SculpSure® has only recently begun, it is impossible to conclusively make any type of comparison regarding long-term results, side effects and complications.
Dr. Miller stresses to his patients that irrespective of the technology used, the determining factors in the quality of the results obtained consist of a customized treatment plan, and attention to details, paired with the physician’s experience with body shaping techniques and technologies. It is important to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Miller so that he can review your body shaping aesthetic goals and provide you with a customized treatment plan.
*Results may vary and are not guaranteed. CoolSculpting® is FDA-cleared to treat visible fat bulges in 9 areas of the body. Some common side effects include temporary numbness, discomfort, and swelling. Consult with Dr. Normand Miller to see if you are a good candidate.
