How does Laser Body Sculpting Work?

Laser body contouring treatments such as Sculpsure aim to remove stubborn fat deposits through the use of non-invasive laser technology. It is an FDA-approved procedure that uses a controlled hyperthermic laser for non-invasive lipolysis, which penetrates the skin in order to be absorbed by fat cells. This precise targeting breaks down the fat cells for a targeted body contouring and sculpting effect. In the weeks that follow, your body will naturally process, eliminate, and shed the dead fat cells through normal body metabolic processes.

Laser body contouring and sculpting are ideal for those looking to address stubborn fat bulges and achieve a slimmer silhouette. It can be applied to various parts of the body, and patients can opt to treat more than one area in a 25-minute session.

The process typically takes less than 30 minutes, with little to no downtime or recovery time necessary afterwards. Patients may experience both cooling and warmth during the treatment, with a cooling mechanism used to soothe the skin before the warming laser is applied. Patients will typically feel intermittent warmth and tingling during laser application, which can feel uncomfortable but should not be painful.

Who is Laser Body Sculpting For?

Individuals with persistent fat deposits that appear resistant to diet and lifestyle changes may be drawn to laser body sculpting or contouring treatments as an alternative to traditional fat loss or fat removal methods. However, do note that outcomes and patient experiences may vary on an individual basis. Do consult your medical doctor for an assessment of your suitability for laser body sculpting.

Features of Laser Body Contouring

Non-invasive nature

Laser body sculpting does not involve any incisions. This eliminates risks related to surgery and reduces recovery time.

Fast treatment process

Laser body contouring procedures typically last no more than 25 minutes with no required downtime.

Precise targeting

Laser technology enables the medical doctor performing this procedure to focus on specific areas to achieve a uniform post-procedure appearance.

Minimal discomfort

Patients of laser body contouring have reported minimal to no pain or discomfort during the procedure.

Gradual effects

As the affected fat cells are slowly disposed of by the body’s natural metabolic processes, the effects of laser body sculpting will appear gradually for a more natural effect.

Long-term results

Patients should note that the number of fat cells stored in our bodies typically remains constant throughout adult life. As we lose weight, the size of fat cells becomes smaller but does not decrease in number. After the laser body contouring treatment, the fat cells are permanently destroyed2 and will not return which could potentially contribute to lasting slimming effects.

Katz B, Doherty S. A multicenter study of the safety and efficacy of a non-invasive 1060 nm diode laser for fat reduction of the flanks. Paper presented at: 2015 Annual American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Conference; April 22-26; Kissimmee, FL.

What is the Laser Body Contouring Procedure Like?

The laser body contouring procedure involves several steps:

• Consultation: A medical doctor will first consult with you to assess your suitability for laser body contouring. If you are deemed eligible for the procedure, a practitioner will then discuss your intended target areas.
• Preparation: A full body assessment will be conducted, during which target areas are marked out.
• Equipment set-up: The practitioner will prepare and ready the laser equipment to be used.
• Treatment and sensation: When the treatment starts, you will initially feel a cooling sensation. This helps keep the skin comfortable during treatment. The cooling will be on the entire treatment, while the laser cycles on and off, raising the temperature of the fat cells. Most patients feel a deep warmth and/or tingling sensation intermittently throughout the treatment, which is generally well-tolerated3,4.
• Post-treatment: After the 25-minute treatment is finished, most patients can resume daily activities, as there is minimal to no expected downtime. Each 25-minute treatment can destroy up to 24%1 of treated fat cells without surgery. The practitioner will also provide recommendations for aftercare, if necessary.

Single treatment of average reduction in fat volume as measured by MRI; Clinical and Histological Evaluations of a 1060nm Laser Device for Non-Invasive Fat Reduction – John W. Decorato, MD., F A C S. Rafael Sierra, Ph.D., Bo Chen, Ph.D., Westford, MA, 2014.

Average patient discomfort rating of 3.7 on a scale of 1-10; Bass L, Doherty S. Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Of The Abdomen With A 1060nm Diode Laser.Paper presented at: 2015 Annual American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Conference; April 22-26; Kissimmee, FL.

Clinical data on file.

Areas Eligible for Laser Body Contouring

Common target areas for laser body sculpting include:

• Abdomen (Upper and lower abdomen)
• Bra and back fat
• Lower back
• Thighs (Inner and outer thighs)
• Arms
• Knees
• Calves
• Breasts (Gynecomastia)

What Results Can Be Expected From Laser Body Contouring?

Specific outcomes of laser body contouring treatments will vary from individual to individual. Some key considerations to keep in mind include:

• Time frame: Patients may start to see results as early as six weeks following treatment as the body begins to eliminate the destroyed fat cells, with optimal results usually seen at 12 weeks. Visible results of laser fat removal tend to occur over 10 to 12 weeks.

• Frequency of sessions: Patients who attend regular laser body contouring sessions may see greater regularity in outcomes. However, other aspects of a patient’s lifestyle, such as diet and exercise, remain crucial to maintaining their intended silhouette and overall appearance.

Immediately after the treatment, you may experience potential risks or side effects, including bruising, swelling, soreness, or mild pain in the treatment area. These side effects should be mild and temporary; however, if they persist, consult a medical doctor immediately.

Is There Any Downtime After Laser Body Contouring Treatment?

There is minimal to no expected downtime after a laser body contouring treatment. Patients can return to their usual activities immediately after the procedure has ended, unless otherwise advised by the doctor.

Post-Treatment Recommendations

Laser body contouring treatments can be a complement to a healthy lifestyle. Optimal benefits post-treatment are best achieved in combination with changes to diet and exercise. No slimming treatment is a substitute for a sensible diet and regular exercise. For patients exploring wider body contouring or fat removal options, other treatments such as fat freezing treatment and HIFEM® body sculpting may also be considered based on their attributes and potential side effects. Patients are recommended to consult with a licensed healthcare professional prior to pursuing any form of medical aesthetic treatment.