As you probably know by now, body fat is an impartial thing.

Because of factors like a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, a slowdown in metabolism and even genes, fat cells can develop almost anywhere – from the tummy and the hips to your arms, thighs, back and chin.

While you can – and should – adopt a regular exercise routine coupled with a sensible diet, there are treatments that may also help with fat reduction. According to Dr Sim Kwang Chuor, medical director of Aesthetic Works, non-invasive fat reduction procedures have become increasingly popular here because compared to traditional liposuction, for instance, they are safer, have minimal downtime and usually involve little or no pain.   

There are various fat reduction machines on the market that help to target stubborn fat with radio frequency, ultrasound or even “freezing” technology.

But until now, most of these machines have been designed to treat mainly bigger areas such as the abdomen and legs. The reason? Their big and unwieldy handpieces might not be suitable for usage on smaller areas like the inner arms or under the chin.

One of the latest fat reduction machines that aims to address this concern is the truSculpt iD by Cutera. Based in the United States, Cutera is a medical technology company behind other aesthetic medical machines like the Excel-V and the Enlighten lasers.  

Here, Dr Sim shares more about the truSculpt iD machine and explains how it allows for synchronised treatment across different body areas for greater efficiency.

How does the truSculpt iD machine work on fat cells?

It deploys a powerful but low and uniform monopolar radio frequency that penetrates the fat layer thoroughly. When this happens, fat cells are heated up and damaged, and they then “self-destruct” in a process known as cell apoptosis.

Interestingly, fat cells are believed to be more susceptible to heat damage than your bones, muscles, nerves and blood vessels.

Won’t the heat hurt my skin?

The truSculpt iD machine uses real-time temperature control so it is able to heat up fat cells to a therapeutic temperature while constantly monitoring the skin temperature and adjusting the extent of the heat to protect your skin. You will only feel a slight heating sensation during the treatment.

There’s a bonus to the heat generated: It supposedly helps with collagen remodeling, so lax skin may be tightened.

Why is the truSculpt iD able to target more body parts, including smaller areas, in one treatment?

The machine consists of six handpieces that allow for greater flexibility and versatility during the treatment. All six can be placed on the abdomen if that is the only area that needs to be treated. But the handpieces can also be placed on various parts of the body so that different body areas are targeted in the same treatment, helping to save the patient time.

Other fat reduction machines may use larger handpieces that are harder to operate. They cannot be used on smaller body areas like the underarms and inner thighs and may even cause skin depressions or bulges post-treatment.      

Who is the truSculpt iD treatment suitable for?

The treatment is suitable for any healthy patient who is looking for non-invasive localised fat reduction. Those with underlying medical conditions or morbid obesity should seek advice from a qualified medical professional before trying the treatment.

What are some side effects that I can expect?

The most common side effects are temporary and include redness, swelling and aches.

When will I be able to see visible results?

Non-invasive fat reduction treatments, though effective, are not miracle treatments. Patients should not expect immediate results. The effects are generally seen two to three months later.

A few treatments might be necessary to achieve the desired outcome. You should maintain your exercise routine and avoid over-eating during this time.

Individual results may vary.