Emsculpt®️ Neo vs CoolSculpting®️
Non-surgical options for body contouring have become a popular option in recent years. In 2021, BTL (manufacturer of Emsculpt®️ Neo) reached over 1 million treatments. People are seeking nonsurgical modalities for fat reduction and body contouring because patients want to be able to improve their physiques without having to disrupt their busy schedules. Emsculpt®️ Neo and CoolSculpting®️ are the most popular non-invasive body contouring treatments, but they have several key differences.
CoolSculpting®️, also known as cryolipolysis, works by freezing fat cells to the point of destruction. During the procedure, a device is used to target specific areas of the body where stubborn fat deposits are present. The device applies controlled cooling to freeze the fat cells underneath the skin, causing them to crystallize and die. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these dead fat cells through its metabolic processes. CoolSculpting®️ is primarily used for reducing localized fat bulges in areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and love handles.
Emsculpt®️ Neo combines two technologies – High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy and Radiofrequency (RF) energy. It not only targets fat but also simultaneously builds muscle. The HIFEM energy induces powerful muscle contractions, which are far more intense than what is achievable through voluntary muscle contraction during exercise. These contractions lead to muscle growth and strengthening. Additionally, the RF energy heats the tissues, leading to fat reduction and remodeling of the muscles and tightening the skin. Emsculpt®️ Neo is often used for toning and sculpting the abdomen, buttocks, arms, and thighs.
What are the key differences between these two popular treatment options?
Mechanism of Action: CoolSculpting®️ freezes fat cells, causing them to die and be naturally eliminated by the body, while Emsculpt®️ Neo uses a combination of high intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy and radiofrequency to induce muscle contractions and reduce fat. HIFEM causes muscle contractions that are supraoptimal – beyond what your body can do on its own. This patented technology also clears the lactic acid build up you would otherwise get from a workout so you don’t have any painfully sore muscles afterward.
Results: CoolSculpting®️ is primarily focused on reducing fat in targeted areas, whereas Emsculpt®️ Neo reduces fat but also builds and tones muscles. You can start seeing results right away from Emsculpt®️ Neo (depending upon body habitus) and results will continue to improve for months after your last treatment. On average, individuals can expect to increase muscle mass by 25% in the treated area and decrease fat by 30% after 4 sessions. These 4 Emsculpt®️ Neo sessions are equivalent to roughly 12-16 weeks of HIIT Training. CoolSculpting®️ results can take several weeks to start becoming noticeable. This is due to time needed for the frozen fat cells to be eliminated by your body. On average, individuals lost 10-25% of fat in the treated area with CoolSculpting®️ depending on the number of treatments.
Treatment Sessions: CoolSculpting®️ sessions can take anywhere from 40 minutes up to 3 hours depending on the area being treated. Emsculpt®️ Neo treatments are 30 minutes.
Suitability: CoolSculpting®️ is more for individuals who are near their ideal body weight but have stubborn fat deposits. Emsculpt Neo®️ is not dependent upon body mass index (BMI) and is good for those who are not only looking to decrease fat but also want to develop muscle and improve tone and increase strength.
Side Effects/Complications: CoolSculpting®️ and Emsculpt®️ Neo are both safe options for body contouring but as with any therapy, there are potential side effects and complications. The most common reported side effects associated with fat freezing are redness at the treatment area, numbness, bruising and swelling. Although rare, more serious complications such as severe/persistent pain, abnormal sensation, skin discoloration, nerve damage and paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (painless, firm, and well-demarcated tissue masses) can occur. Emsculpt Neo side effects can include redness at the treatment area and muscle soreness.
Which treatment is right for you?
Choosing the right treatment depends upon your goals, body habitus and overall health. There are many options available for body contouring. It is important to do your research and have an in depth consultation with the physician to ensure you are making the best decision for your specific needs and goals. At Total Illusion, we prefer Emsculpt®️ Neo for it’s effectiveness, versatility, efficiency, safety and value for money.
