Zeltiq was founded to commercialize technology based on research demonstrating that fat cells are more susceptible than other types of cells to extreme cold and can be selectively, painlessly and permanently destroyed in a process known as cryolipolysis. With FDA 510(k) clearance for its CoolSculpting system in hand in early September, Zeltiq hopes to lead the charge into the body contouring aesthetics frontier with a technology that it believes stands apart from emerging laser, radiofrequency and ultrasound systems.

For nonsurgical body contouring,Slender Medical Ltd. has developed a device that uses high intensity-focused ultrasound to effectively treat local anatomical areas like the chin and arms, so it is being positioned to either augment liposuction or as stand-alone therapy. Because of a dual-head applicator comprising two ultrasonic transducers, the Slender system is able to both transmit ultrasonic waves and receive the ultrasonic signal. As a result, it can monitor temperature at the same time it extracts fat tissue, leading to a safer outcome for the patient.

Noninvasive body contouring is the hottest new trend in aesthetics. The concept of losing fat without surgery is both appealing and promising to patients, aesthetic physicians, investors and medical device manufacturers alike, and industry has been quick to respond. In this issue, we profile three device start-ups that hope to gain footing in this lucrative market.