SculpSure and CoolSculpting both use a similar concept—changing the temperature of fat cells to destroy the cells permanently. Just like its name implies, SculpSure heats fat cells beyond the point of viability. CoolSculpting, on the other hand, works by making fat cells too cold.
With SculpSure flat applicators are placed on the treatment area. These use a laser to heat the fat cells in the targeted area to the point that the cells are killed. Cooling plates are used during treatment so that you don’t feel any of the heat and your skin remains at a comfortable temperature.
Over time the body naturally removes these dead cells, reducing the fat in the treated area.
CoolSculpting works by drawing the tissue in the targeted area into the applicator device. The device uses a suction motion while it’s cooling the area, causing the fat cells to freeze. Your body will naturally eliminate the frozen dead cells. When the dead fat cells are removed, the treated area appears more contoured and smoother.
Overall, SculpSure and CoolSculpting use the same basic concept to destroy fat cells. One difference related to the temperature change, however, is that while cold stays concentrated in one place, the heat from SculpSure tends to extend slightly beyond the immediate treatment area.
This thermal spread helps to create a natural transition between the treated and untreated parts of the body. If you want to learn more and are considering CoolSculpting or SculpSure fat reduction treatments in Sydney – Dr Saras & Co is one of the leading specialists in body contouring treatments of the highest standard.
What are SculpSure and CoolSculpting treatments like?
SculpSure treatments each take around 25 minutes. Up to four applicators are used at the same time to fit the desired area. For some, two areas can be done simultaneously. The applicators sit on top of the tissue, continuously keeping your skin cool while using laser energy to heat the fat cells. There is no downtime and patients can get right back to work.
Each CoolSculpting treatment takes approximately 60 minutes. The applicator is put on the treatment area, and then pulls and sucks the tissue between two plates to freeze the fat cells. However, most patients tolerate this sensation well. Following the procedure, patients can get back to work right away.
Are there side effects or risks associated with SculpSure or CoolSculpting?
Though both SculpSure and CoolSculpting are safe and have FDA approval, these procedures are not necessarily suitable for all patients.
SculpSure does not require any suction or massaging. There are different times during the treatment where you will feel a warming sensation with higher intensities of heat. This is immediately followed by a brief cooling period. During your SculpSure session, there is some tingling, and for some patients, cramping is experienced but this depends on the intensity of the treatment. The treatment overall is well tolerated.
There is minimal redness following SculpSure treatments along with the possibility of bruising and swelling, lasting up to a week following your SculpSure treatment
After the CoolSculpting treatment, some patients may feel sensations of strong tugging or pulling from the suction device. Following treatment, the targeted area is firmly massaged which can be uncomfortable for some patients. Following your CoolSculpting procedure, the treated area may have some redness, mild swelling, and occasional bruising.
What areas of the body can be treated with SculpSure and CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting can be used to treat the thighs, abdomen and flanks. CoolSculpting is the only non-invasive fat reduction technique that is FDA approved for use on the chin. SculpSure can treat the abdomen and flanks. Both procedures can likely be used on other areas of the body (ex. the upper arms), those uses would be considered “off-label.”
What kind of results can you get from SculpSure compared to CoolSculpting?
Both SculpSure and CoolSculpting will give the best results to patients who are specifically trying to target stubborn fat. It is not uncommon that even people who exercise and are careful about what they eat still have fat that they just can’t seem to get rid of, often around the waist. SculpSure and CoolSculpting are both potential options for this type of patient.