Achieving your dream body is no easy feat, and some of us will go through rigorous exercise and strict diets to achieve and achieve our desired physique. It can be frustrating when stubborn pockets of fat still remain.
SculpSure Laser Lipolysis is a localised fat reduction treatment to address stubborn fat pockets. This 25 minute treatment is non-invasive and has no downtime. The safety and effectiveness of the SculpSure Laser has been documented in multiple published clinical studies, with 20-25% of fat cells in the treated area permanently removed with each treatment.
SculpSure Laser Lipolysis is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that utilizes a 1060nm diode laser to permanently eliminate fat cells. It is a safe and quick procedure with no downtime. Developed by Cynosure (USA), this fat removal laser has been US FDA approved since 2016 with millions of treatments performed worldwide.
SculpSure Laser features a 1060 nm wavelength diode laser, which emits laser energy that specifically targets fat cells, without damaging surrounding tissues in the body. The laser energy is converted into heat energy, damaging the fat cells to trigger cell apoptosis (controlled cell death). [1]. The dead fat cells are gradually absorbed by the body over the next 2-3 months [2] and removed from the body naturally.
Additionally, SculpSure Laser also has a skin tightening effect. Laser energy stimulates production of new collagen and elastin in the skin. As the fat cells are replaced by collagen, the treated area on the body becomes slimmer and firmer. [1].
The SculpSure Laser Lipolysis uses proprietary Contact Cooling™ technology to keep the skin cool while the deeper fat deposits are heated up. This minimises the risk of skin burns and keeps the patient comfortable during the treatment
SculpSure Laser can treat stubborn fat on different areas on the body, including:
SculpSure Laser Lipolysis is a US FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment with multiple published clinical studies documenting its safety and effectiveness. Its proprietary temperature monitoring and surface cooling system maximises patient comfort and safety.
Unlike liposuction (fat removal surgery), laser lipolysis does not require surgical incisions and general anaesthesia, which greatly reduces the risks of complications/downtime.
Unlike Cryolipolysis (Fat freezing), Laser Lipolysis has no risk of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (fat regrowth).
Patients interested in SculpSure Laser Lipolysis undergo a detailed medical consultation and physical examination to assess suitability for this treatment. A personalised treatment plan is recommended, with medical weight loss treatments if necessary. Standardised clinical photography is taken to closely monitor your progress and for follow-up purposes.
During the Sculpsure Laser treatment, the laser will be applied to the areas of concern and secured in place. You will feel a heating and/or tingling sensation as the laser targets the adipose tissues in your body. Each treatment cycle lasts 25 minutes, with up to 4 treatment areas per cycle. Depending on the treatment plan, the total duration of the treatment ranges from 1-3 hours (eg 8 areas treated in 2 cycles will take 1 hour)
There is no downtime after the treatment and you can return to normal activity right away. There will be mild swelling of the treated area for 1-2 weeks. For optimal results, most patients return for a second session of SculpSure laser 1 month after the first session. The final results are seen 2-3 months after treatment is completed.
SculpSure Laser | Cryolipolysis (fat freeze) | Liposuction (fat removal surgery) | |
Technology | 1060nm diode laser | Suction + cooling applicator | Surgery- liposuction cannula |
Mode of action | Laser energy heats fat to 45C to eliminate | Fat cells frozen to -10C to eliminate | Fat cells surgically removed from body |
Performed by | Medical clinics only- regulated by MOH/NEA/HSA | Spas and beauty salons - unregulated!Clinics- Coolsculpt- regulated by MOH | Hospitals/Surgical centers only- regulated by MOH |
Device licencing | US FDA | unregulated | n/a |
Device manufacturer | Cynosure, USA | Coolsculpt- Zeltiq/Allergan Medical- USAMultiple OEM brands from China/Korea | n/a |
Invasive? | No | No | Yes |
Downtime? | No | No | Yes |
Results | 20-25% permanent fat removal | 20% fat removalMay have fat regrowth | Varies based on surgical plan |
Risks | Mild pain and discomfort | Fat regrowth (paradoxical adipose hyperplasia) | Burns, pigmentation, dimpling, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, fat embolism, death |
Cost | $$ | $ | $$$$ |
Results | ++ | + | +++ |
Key advantages | No downtime, safe, no risk of fat regrowth | Very cheap (if done in beauty salon) | Able to perform fat grafting |
SculpSure Laser at Bay Aesthetics Clinic is part of a doctor supervised body contouring program that utilises US FDA approved technology (SculpSure, BaySculpt). Female clients are typically assigned to a lady doctor - for privacy and comfort. Patients interested in liposuction surgery are referred to our partner Plastic Surgeon
SculpSure Laser Lipolysis is not a weight loss treatment, but rather a body contouring treatment that can support your weight loss journey by removing stubborn pockets of fat.
Medical weight loss is recommended for patients who are overweight/obese
This treatment is not recommended for patients who:
Mordon S, Plot E. Laser lipolysis versus traditional liposuction for fat removal. Expert Rev Med Devices. 2009 Nov;6(6):677-88. doi: 10.1586/erd.09.50. PMID: 19911878.
Wolska J, Hassan H. Noninvasive lipolysis modalities in aesthetic medicine. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023 Oct;22(10):2635-2649. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15929. Epub 2023 Jul 11. PMID: 37431699.