At the Center for Aesthetic and Laser Medicine (CALM) in Scottsdale, we are constantly researching and critically evaluating new technologies, innovative techniques, and products to provide our patients with the best options available. We’re very pleased to incorporate truSculpt iD into our practice. Our doctors, like board-certified dermatologist Dr. Julie Salmon, know how important it is to educate and inform patients about their treatment options. In this blog, Dr. Salmon takes the time to answer frequently asked questions about the state-of-the-art truSculpt iD system.
What is truSculpt iD?
Surgical fat removal by invasive methods, such as surgery or liposuction, used to be the only way to remove stubborn, unwanted fat cells reliably and effectively. According to Dr. Salmon, that’s changing: “After years of testing multiple devices for fat reduction, we have, at last, a great non-surgical option with truSculpt iD. Best of all, it is highly customizable and can be effective for men and women of almost any body size. The innovative technology and insightful science that has gone into the development of truSculpt iD have made it more effective, more comfortable, and more efficient than prior devices.” truSculpt iD is a third-generation energy-based device developed by Cutera, a global leader in laser and energy-based solutions for face and body.
Is truSculpt iD the Right Treatment for Me?
truSculpt iD is a versatile energy-based (monopolar radiofrequency) lipolysis treatment that works well for most individuals. Dr. Salmon said, “We always get started with a consultation appointment. This gives us the opportunity to examine you, discuss your treatment goals, and make sure that the treatment you want is the best option for your specific situation.” During your consultation, you should be prepared to answer questions about your health history, and you should feel free to ask any questions about the truSculpt iD procedure and other treatment options.
Unlike other fat removal and body reshaping technologies, truSculpt iD is effective for men and women of any fitness level. While almost anyone can achieve their desired results with truSculpt iD, it is most effective for those with a body mass index (BMI) of less than 30, who maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine. An added benefit is that truSculpt iD can be used on all skin types and even tattooed areas. Popular areas to treat include the abdomen, flank areas (“love handles”), thighs (including inner thighs and areas near the knee), back, hips, and upper arms, and the area under the chin (submentum).
truSculpt iD is not recommended for the following individuals:
- Women who are pregnant or lactating (breast-feeding)
- Those with pacemakers or defibrillators or any electronic, metal or time-released medical implanted device
- Those who have tumors or cysts in the treatment area
- Those who have metal or implants, especially in the treatment area
What Happens During truSculpt iD Treatment?
On the day of your truSculpt iD treatment, there is no need for any numbing medications or anesthesia. Depending on the number of areas being treated, the procedure will take thirty minutes to an hour and a half, and we can treat up to 13 areas in a single session. During treatment, the unique truSculpt iD applicators allow us to target individual areas, breaking down fat cells while stimulating skin tightening. Dr. Salmon explains, “truSculpt iD continuously measures skin temperature while it precisely and evenly delivers radiofrequency energy at the optimal level to target fat. This means it creates the optimal effects at the highest comfort level. With the hands-free method, we can treat up to 6 areas in a 15-minute session. We highly customize the placement of the truSculpt iD applicators to best achieve our treatment goals—it truly is like sculpting the body. Most bodies are not symmetrical, and we can help to create more balance between the right and left sides of the body by strategically placing the applicators. People often describe the sensation of the treatment itself as feeling a little like a hot stone massage, so it can actually be relaxing. During the 2 to 3 minutes of the 15-minute treatment, they can feel a bit hot, and we can adjust the temperature down without compromising the results.” After the procedure, patients occasionally see results right away, but much of the fat reduction begins at 10 days and continues over the 12 weeks after treatment.
Are there Adverse Effects After truSculpt iD Treatment?
For the most part, you can go right back to your daily activities immediately after your procedure. You may notice some redness or discomfort (like a mild sunburn) immediately after your session, but this typically resolves within a few hours of treatment. According to Dr. Salmon, “Rarely, the skin may be a bit sensitive like a mild sunburn for a few days after treatment. Very rarely, a tender bump can developer under the skin where the fat cells are being processed, and this resolves within 1 or 2 months. When patients have any concerns after any treatment, we encourage them to contact us. We’re always here for our patients!”
Do I Need More Than One Treatment?
With the hand-held applicator, which is used for the area under the chin, patients will typically need 2 to 4 treatments, which can be spaced as close as 4 weeks apart. Typically fat reduction is apparent prior to skin tightening.
With the hands-free methods, which can treat up to 6 areas on the body simultaneously, one truSculpt iD treatment typically reduces fat by 24%, which may be sufficient improvement in someone with a little excess fat. Many patients complete two to three rounds of treatment per area. We will typically allow 2 to 3 months in between sessions. Dr. Salmon says, “After each session, we’ll schedule a follow-up visit to discuss your progress and re-evaluate our treatment plan.”
Are truSculpt iD Results Permanent?
The fat cells removed through truSculpt iD are gone permanently. However, when weight gain as fat occurs, fat cells enlarge throughout the body. Also, studies in recent years have shown that the body can create new fat cells, particularly when conditions favor weight gain as fat. According to Dr. Salmon, “As long as you are maintaining your weight and level of activity, you should maintain your results. Many of the people who choose truSculpt iD are struggling with stubborn fat deposits that haven’t been responsive to exercise and diet in the past. Our goal is that, after the problematic fat deposits are removed, you’ll be able to keep your more ideal body shape.”
How do I Schedule truSculpt iD Treatment?
If you’re ready to get started with the CALM team in Scottsdale, we make setting up your first visit easy. Simply complete our online form. The information you provide will be used by our Scottsdale dermatology team to streamline your appointment scheduling process. Once you submit the form, one of our team members will reach out to schedule your visit.
