Center of Dermatology and Laser Surgery of Philadelphia
Written by Dr. Ringpfeil
At Ringpfeil Dermatology in Philadelphia, when we meet with individuals who are troubled by stubborn body fat, we often recommend SculpSure. This revolutionary non-surgical treatment utilizes laser energy to quickly and permanently eliminate fat without pain or recovery time. Dr. Ringpfeil is one of the first dermatologists in Philadelphia to offer SculpSure treatments and have seen firsthand the remarkable results that SculpSure provides.
SculpSure can treat several areas of the body where fat commonly accumulates. Fat deposits can be eliminated from four areas of the body at the same time. The areas we most often treat include:
We are very enthusiastic about SculpSure because of the clear benefits it provides in comparison to other fat reduction procedures like liposuction or CoolSculpting.
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 Treatment Area |
SculpSure applicators are placed on top of the skin and can treat up to four different areas of the body at the same time. Applicator can be positioned on any part of the body. | CoolSculpting can only treat one area of the body at a time. The skin area needs to be large and lax enough for proper treatment. Limits to body locations in which fat can be pulled and be sucked into the applicator. |
 Fat Removal Process |
SculpSure uses very high temperature to destroy fat cells. | CoolSculpting uses very cold temperatures to freeze fat cells. |
 Discomfort Level |
Almost no discomfort during treatment | Little to no discomfort |
 Results |
Results are seen in 6 to 12 weeks 25% of fat reduction in each treatment |
Results are seen in 6 to 10 weeks 22% of fat reduction in each treatment |
SculpSure is an easy treatment that can be completed in just 25 minutes. At the beginning of the session, Dr. Ringpfeil marks the patient’s body to indicate where fat removal is desired. She then selects the correct applicator to ensure the best results and places it on the body. The applicator heads are positioned within the applicator and the system is switched on. First, the patient will experience a cooling sensation, which protects the skin and ensures the patient’s comfort throughout the treatment. This is followed by periods of intense warmth that are felt as laser energy is sent into the targeted fat layers. When the treatment is complete, the applicator is removed and the patient can immediately resume normal activities. With such a short treatment session and no downtime required, many of our patients choose to undergo SculpSure on their lunch breaks.
After the treatment, the body works to naturally clear the destroyed fat cells, which can take 6 to 12 weeks in total. Most people achieve the best results with 4 SculpSure sessions, but some individuals are happy with the results after just one treatment.
SculpSure is an excellent solution for almost anyone who suffers from unwanted body fat that has not responded to exercise or diet changes. Candidates should be close to their target weight, as SculpSure is not a weight loss solution. Ideal candidates will also have realistic expectations about what can be achieved through SculpSure. If you’re interested in non-invasive body sculpting, we encourage you to contact our Philadelphia office to find out if SculpSure is the right choice for you.
What is the difference between SculpSure and traditional liposuction?
Traditional liposuction is a procedure that uses suction to mechanically removal localized fat deposits. During a liposuction procedure, incisions are made and a small sterile tube or cannula is inserted in the treatment area. Fat is then removed through the cannula. Unlike traditional liposuction, SculpSure is a non-invasive fat removal solution that uses advanced laser technology to melt fat, which means no down time is necessary. It also boosts collagen production, which tightens the skin.
Why does it take six to eight weeks to see final results?
SculpSure uses light energy to selectively destroy fat cells, which the body then flushes out through its natural cleansing system. Because the natural elimination process takes some weeks to complete, final results will not be visible immediately. However, many patients often report improvement soon after a treatment.
Will the results from my SculpSure treatment be permanent?
Once fat cells are heated, they are permanently destroyed and will not regenerate. As long as a healthy lifestyle is maintained, the results from a SculpSure procedure can be long-lasting.
Can SculpSure help me lose weight?
While SculpSure can help shape the body and slim down areas, it is not a weight loss solution or designed to treat patients who are overweight. Those who benefit most from SculpSure are at or near their ideal weight, but have areas that could benefit from a body contouring procedure. It should not be viewed as a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise.
How many SculpSure treatments are needed to see results?
For most patients, only one SculpSure treatment is needed to produce visible and impressive results. This is a significant advantage that SculpSure has over other non- and minimally-invasive fat reduction treatments, which require multiple treatments, spaced several weeks apart.