Non Surgical Fat Removal
Non-surgical fat reduction, also referred to as non-invasive body contouring, is the term used to encompass cosmetic procedures that eliminate stubborn pockets of fat cells without the need for any incisions, lengthy downtime, invasive plastic surgery, or significant side effects. Often, even despite maintaining the strictest diet and exercise routine, some stubborn pockets of fat refuse to budge. Luckily, surgical liposuction is no longer the only cosmetic procedure for fat removal, and patients can take advantage of the non-invasive body contouring procedures offered at Dr. Michele Green’s New York dermatology office to achieve optimal results for body contouring without any downtime.
Non-invasive body contouring procedures rely on cryolipolysis, laser technology, radiofrequency energy, or injection lipolysis to reduce and eliminate fat cells in a treatment area. CoolSculpting and Kybella are among the most popular non-surgical fat reduction treatments available at Dr. Green’s, and can easily be combined in a treatment plan with other cosmetic procedures like Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, and more to produce optimal results for total rejuvenation. CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis, or fat freezing technology, while Kybella injections are used to dissolve unwanted fat cells in the targeted area. These FDA approved, non-surgical fat removal procedures are not weight loss treatments, and are not considered replacements for surgical liposuction, but are suitable for eliminating unwanted fat in various treatment areas such as the love handles, double chin, bra fat, stomach bulges, inner and outer thighs, and upper arms.
Dr. Michele Green in New York City is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the most discerning men and women from around the world with the best non-invasive treatment options available, including non-surgical fat reduction procedures for body contouring. Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times consistently identify Dr. Green as one of the best dermatologists in NYC for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private office in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, she will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan for non-invasive body contouring that is perfectly catered to addressing your unique concerns and achieving your ideal results.
What is non-surgical fat reduction?
Non-surgical fat reduction, also known as non-invasive fat removal, is a process by which unwanted fat cells in a targeted area of the body are dissolved, shrunk, or removed all without having to undergo any invasive plastic surgery procedure. There are many different methods for non-surgical fat removal, including body contouring treatments by which fat cells are frozen and subsequently metabolized by the body (CoolSculpting), deoxycholic acid injections to break down fat cells (Kybella), radiofrequency energy (FaceTite, AccuTite, and Vanquish), red light therapy (InstaLipo®), hyperthermic laser (SculpSure), ultrasound energy laser (Liposonix®), and cold laser energy (Zerona®). Each of these non-surgical fat removal methods is effective in helping to reduce or eliminates bulges of fat on various parts of the body without having to have plastic surgery. When it comes to navigating the many treatment options, it is best to consult with an expert board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, to determine the treatment or series of treatments that would work best for you.
How Does Surgical Liposuction compare to Non-Invasive Fat Reduction?
Surgical liposuction is fat removal procedure performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. While surgical liposuction typically provides more dramatic cosmetic results, the process of having plastic surgery is typically much expensive and requires significantly more downtime compared to non-surgical fat reduction treatments. Surgical liposuction is a good treatment option for removing large deposits of excess unwanted fat bulges, but most patients with small, stubborn pockets of fat choose to opt for non-invasive body contouring procedures since there are fewer potential side effects, less downtime, optimal results, and treatment tends to be less costly. Non-surgical fat reduction treatment options are ideal for patients that are near their goal weight, yet struggle with the presence of stubborn pockets of fat in different areas of the body.
Depending on the treatment area, multiple treatment sessions of non-surgical fat reduction may be required to achieve optimal cosmetic results. CoolSculpting and Kybella are two of the most popular non-surgical fat reduction procedures available at the private, boutique office of board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green. Both non-invasive body contouring procedures are easily integrated into patient’s rejuvenation treatment plans and can be combined with other cosmetic procedures such as Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels, and microneedling, among others. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to develop a treatment plan that incorporates the unique combination of cosmetic procedures that is best suited to addressing your specific concerns and achieving your ideal aesthetic goals.
Non-invasive Body Contouring treatment options
When it comes to non-surgical fat reduction procedures, many involve either dissolving or breaking up fat cells in order to de-bulk an area of the body without affecting the surrounding tissues. When a practitioner refers to “de-bulking” a problem area – this means reducing the prevalence of unwanted fat cells that have built up in that area. This is particularly ideal for patients who are close to their ideal weight but would like to create more definition or sculpt that area of their body. Non-surgical body contouring procedures employ many methods to achieve the desired results and as such, there are many options when choosing the treatment that works best for you:
Fat Freezing – One method of removing fat without surgery is cryolipolysis, also known as fat freezing, which is used in the treatment CoolSculpting. For this treatment, the CoolSculpting machine works by freezing the fat cells that are found beneath the surface of the skin in the treatment area. When the fat cells freeze they rupture, which then leads the body to metabolize the ruptured cells. As a result, the area becomes less bulky and can, in fact, reduce a fat bulge by 25% for each treatment.
Radiofrequency Energy – Treatments that employ radiofrequency energy for fat reduction, including FaceTite, AccuTite, and Vanquish, have a dual purpose: radiofrequency treatment works to reduce the prevalence of fat cells while also tightening the skin for a more defined and smoother look. The applicator releases wavelengths of radiofrequency energy, which heats fat cells, causing them to melt away. At the same time, the treatment triggers the body’s natural healing response, which leads to the increased production of collagen. Collagen is a natural protein that gives the skin structure and keeps your skin smooth, firm, and youthful in appearance.
Kybella Injection with Deoxycholic acid – Deoxycholic acid injection is the keystone for the Kybella treatment for fat reduction. The treatment works by injecting a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, which is a compound that is naturally occurring in the body. Deoxycholic acid’s function is to dissolve fat cells by breaking down the membrane of the cells. The body is then able to metabolize the cells, which serves to de-bulk the treatment area. Deoxycholic acid injections, such as the Kybella treatment, work well for moderate to severe areas of fat accumulation.
Laser Treatment – There are several different varieties of laser treatments that can be used to reduce the appearance of fat non-surgically: hyperthermic laser (such as SculpSure), cold energy laser (such as Zerona), and ultrasound energy laser (such as Liposonix). Hyperthermic lasers use thermal energy to heat the fat cells, which causes them to be damaged and metabolized by the body to de-bulk the area. Ultrasound energy lasers also heat up the fat cells. To achieve this, the applicator radiates wavelengths of ultrasound energy, which heats up the fat cells to the point of destruction. On the opposite end of the spectrum, cold energy lasers, such as Zerona, use targeted cooling energy to freeze fat cells, which causes them to rupture and be absorbed by the body.
35-44 year old female treated with CoolSculpting – 10 months
CoolSculpting for non-invasive fat removal
CoolSculpting is a noninvasive body contouring treatment which is used to treat stubborn pockets of fat bulges in different areas of the body. It is ideal for tackling areas of excess fat which have not responded to maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise routine. CoolSculpting can be used to eliminate excess fat cells in the abdomen, flanks, love handles, upper arms, buttocks, banana roll, inner and outer thighs, bra fat, neck, and knees. CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared cosmetic procedure for fat loss without plastic surgery, however, it is not a weight loss device or replacement for surgical liposuction. An ideal candidate for fat removal with CoolSculpting is at or near their desired goal weight, but struggles with small, stubborn pockets of fat.
A single CoolSculpting treatment session can eliminate up to 25% of fat cells in the targeted area. Each treatment area takes between 30 minutes and one hour to complete, depending on the area of the body being treated and the specific CoolSculpting applicators that are part of your treatment plan. Patients typically experience few and mild side effects, if any, and the most common side effects of CoolSculpting include swelling, bruising, soreness, and numbness which resolve on their own in the weeks following the treatment. There is zero downtime involved with CoolSculpting, meaning patients can resume their usual daily activities immediately upon completion of the procedure and schedule their treatment sessions with ease.
An extremely popular problem area of fat which is difficult to reduce on its own is the submental area, commonly known as the double chin. Many patients are genetically predisposed to getting a “double chin”, and this area gets worse as we age and gain weight. The good news is that there are fantastic treatments which can specifically target this submental area to achieve fat reduction under the chin. This method of fat removal under the chin is done with a small applicator called the CoolMini. The CoolMini® is based on the CoolSculpting treatment itself, but utilizes a unique smaller applicator to target the fat cells under the chin. This “fat-freezing” method for treating the “double chin” and its fat reduction has impressive results. The full cosmetic results from CoolSculpting are seen within three to four months after the treatment has been completed. Some patients even notice improvement after the first month of this amazing non-surgical fat reduction treatment.
How long does CoolSculpting last?
The body contouring effects of CoolSculpting treatment are permanent, so long as no additional weight is gained after having the procedure. Non-surgical fat reduction treatments, including CoolSculpting, are not designed for weight loss, nor are they considered to be alternatives for surgical liposuction. CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat removal procedure that is designed to treat targeted areas of the body with stubborn pockets of fat that are unresponsive to consistent exercise and a healthy diet. Each treatment session of CoolSculpting results in up to a 25% decrease of unwanted fat in a given treatment area.
Kybella injections for Fat Removal
Kybella is an FDA approved injectable composed of a substance called deoxycholic acid, which is injected directly into the fat under the chin to dissolve the excess fat cells. Deoxycholic acid is a substance that the body manufactures naturally in the abdomen, which dissolves lipids and helps with fat removal. The best option for treating your “double chin” is determined by a few factors, including the amount of submental fat and your skin laxity. For patients with a large degree of submental fat, Dr. Green suggests first having CoolSculpting to “de-bulk” the area, followed by Kybella injections to dissolve the remaining fat cells and sculpt the neck and jawline. The number of treatment sessions of Kybella injections required varies for each patient, but typically 3 to 4 treatment sessions are needed for optimal results.
There is only a topical anesthesia required for Kybella injections. When you have your Kybella treatment with Dr. Green, she will prescribe a topical numbing cream to the pharmacy of your choice. The numbing cream should be applied to the entire treatment area one hour before the injections, and the skin will be cleaned once you arrive to the office for treatment. Potential side effects of Kybella injections are swelling, redness, and numbness at the site of injection. The application of cold ice packs to the treated area happens immediately after injection, which helps to minimize these side effects. Kybella injections can also potentially damage the mandibular nerve if incorrectly injected. That’s why it is so important to consult an experienced board certified dermatologist such as Dr. Green in NYC for your cosmetic injections.
Kybella can also be injected into fat bulges in other stubborn areas for body sculpting, such as the upper arms, bra fat, abdomen, love handles, inner thighs, and outer thighs. Weight gain in these areas can cause displeasing contouring of the body, and can be due to genetics, age, and diet. Kybella is a great non-surgical fat reduction treatment for stubborn fat with minor temporary side effects. The results are permanent, as long as a healthy, active lifestyle is maintained and there is no significant weight gain after the treatment. It is important to note that Kybella injections in areas other than the submental fat are not yet approved by the FDA. It is best to consult with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green to determine if Kybella is the most effective treatment in reducing stubborn fat non-surgically.
35-44 year old man treated with Kybella
Do fat removal machines work?
Fat removal machines, such as CoolSculpting, do work to eliminate or reduce fat in the targeted treatment area. The extent of the change following treatment may vary depending on whether you are receiving surgical fat reduction versus non-surgical fat reduction. While surgical fat reduction results in more dramatic reduction in fat, the process is invasive, painful, and involves significant downtime. Non-surgical fat reduction also works to de-bulk areas with fat accumulation without having to undergo any invasive plastic surgery. Patients with small, stubborn pockets of fat may be ideal candidates for non-surgical fat reduction treatment with CoolSculpting. To determine whether CoolSculpting will work for fat removal in your problem area, it is best to have an initial consultation with board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that incorporates the cosmetic procedures best suited to your concerns and aesthetic goals.
What dissolves fat in the body?
There is just one FDA approved injectable for dissolving excess fat cells in the body, which is Kybella. Kybella is a synthetic version of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that plays a role in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. Kybella is FDA approved for fat reduction in the submental area, commonly known as the double chin, however, an expert injector like Dr. Green in NYC may also use Kybella for fat removal in the lower abdomen, bra fat bulges, armpits, and knees. Multiple treatment sessions of Kybella injections are typically necessary to achieve optimal results. The fat reduction results achieved from Kybella treatment are permanent, so long as the patient does not gain additional weight following their treatment. Most patients require 3-6 treatment sessions, each spaced one month apart. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, she will work with you to determine an estimate for how many treatment sessions may be needed to produce your ideal results.
Does non-invasive fat reduction work?
Yes! Many patients wonder, does non-surgical fat removal works. Non-surgical fat reduction treatment methods, such as CoolSculpting and Kybella injections for reducing the appearance of unwanted fat bulges and eliminating fat cells in a treatment area are highly effective. These treatment methods for fat removal can, in fact, de-bulk areas that have accumulated an excess of fat cells, however, they are not a viable replacement for weight loss or an alternative to surgical liposuction. If you are looking for a dramatic reduction for a large amount of unwanted fat accumulation, then plastic surgery may be the best option. An ideal candidate for non-invasive fat reduction treatments will have a small, stubborn pockets of fat in areas of the body that are non-responsive to regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet. The best way to determine whether a non-invasive fat reduction procedure will work for you is to consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green at her private office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan.
What is the Best Non-Surgical Fat Removal Treatment?
When it comes to non-surgical fat removal, it is best consult with an expert in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, specifically a board certified cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC. She will be able to discuss your concerns and recommend the best treatment options. It is important to note that fat removal often entails combining more than one procedure or a combination of technologies to achieve the desired results. Fat removal is a broad category which may include skin tightening and cellulite treatments in addition to non-surgical fat reduction. Fat removal and cellulite treatments may require a series of treatment sessions to see the final results. Non-surgical fat removal procedures, for the face and body, use a range of heating and cooling lasers, injectables, mechanical cellulite reduction, muscle tightening, ultrasound, and radiofrequency heat to achieve these amazing results in fat reduction. When you consult with Dr. Green she will work with you to determine which non-invasive body contouring cosmetic procedures would be the most effective for addressing your specific concerns, and create with you a customized treatment plan for fat removal and body contouring.
How much does non-surgical fat reduction cost?
The total cost of non-invasive fat reduction will ultimately be dependent on a number of contributing factors, including the geographic location of the office in which you are treated, the size of the treatment area, the type of body contouring procedures included in your treatment plan, and the number of treatment sessions required for achieving optimal results. The best way to estimate the total cost of your non-surgical fat reduction treatment is to consult with Dr. Green. During your initial consultation, the problem areas will be identified, and it will be determined which cosmetic procedure you are an ideal candidate for. Dr. Green can provide you with an estimate of how many treatment sessions may be required depending on your unique aesthetic goals and specific concerns, and the approximate cost of treatment determined.
Although it may be more inexpensive to have non-surgical fat reduction treatment in a MedSpa setting, the likelihood of not achieving the desired results and the risk of experiencing unwanted side effects is higher when you seek treatment from someone other than a board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Green is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the most discerning patients from around the world with the best non-invasive treatment options available, including non-surgical fat reduction, and will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is best suited to your specific concerns, ideal aesthetic goals, and budget.
How to get rid of double chin fat without surgery
There are two popular non-surgical fat removal treatments to reduce double chin fat: CoolSculpting and Kybella. CoolSculpting, with the CoolMini applicator that is catered to the submental region, utilizes cryolipolysis to freeze and destroy the fat cells in the targeted area. CoolSculpting has no downtime with minor temporary side effects like numbness, swelling, and bruising. Kybella, made of synthetic deoxycholic acid, utilizes injection lipolysis to damage fat cells in the submental region to reduce the appearance of double chin fat. This quick procedure has minimal downtime with minor temporary side effects like swelling and bruising. If you are bothered by the appearance of double chin fat, schedule a consultation with expert, board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green in NYC. At your consultation, she will assess your double chin and submental area and recommend treatment options, or a combination of treatments, to include in your treatment plan that will help you achieve your desired results.
How much is double chin reduction?
The cost of double chin reduction depends on a variety of factors such as the type of cosmetic procedure, geographic location, and the expertise of the provider. In the case of plastic surgery for submental fat removal, this surgical procedure can cost upwards of $10,000 with a board certified plastic surgeon. For non-invasive options such as CoolSculpting, the cost depends on the number of applicators used, how many treatments are needed, and the desired cosmetic results. The CoolMini applicator for nonsurgical fat reduction of the double chin is generally $1,000 per treatment. Often two treatments are needed to treat both sides of the neck with 25% of the fat cells permanently removed.
CoolSculpting can also be combined with Kybella treatments for maximal results in reducing the appearance of double chin fat. First, CoolSculpting is performed first to “de-bulk” the submental area. Then, Kybella injections will ensure the remaining fat cells in the double chin, to sculpt the neck with permanent nonsurgical body fat reduction treatment. Each Kybella treatment costs on average $1,500. The total cost for Kybella injections will depend on number of treatments needed, the amount of Kybella needed, and the geographic location, and the expertise of the physician. When it comes to permanent nonsurgical fat reduction in the double chin, Dr. Green will work with you to create the safest, most effective treatment plan for your desired results and budget.
How much is laser fat reduction?
The cost of laser treatment for non-surgical fat reduction, such as CoolSculpting or Kybella injections, is based on the size of the treatment area and how many treatment sessions are recommended for achieving optimal results. The total cost also depends on the type of laser technology used in your treatment plan, the geographic location of the office in which you receive treatment, and the experience level of the technician or provider. Laser fat reduction performed in MedSpas will typically be less expensive than when performed by a private board certified dermatologist. However, the risk of developing unwanted side effects increases when cosmetic procedures are not performed by a board certified dermatologist.
Liposuction
Liposuction is traditionally a surgical procedure for fat removal, best performed by a board certified plastic surgeon. Liposuction has evolved since it gained popularity in the 1980’s, with many newer techniques now being utilized. This invasive cosmetic procedure can be performed under both local and general anesthesia, largely depending on the treatment area, the patient, and the plastic surgeon. Surgical liposuction entails first inserting a small cannula beneath the skin. Once the small tube is in place, suction is applied which removes the excess fat cells via a cannula and into a receptacle. There are many regulatory guidelines which each plastic surgeon must follow regarding liposuction fat removal. For example, the amount of excess fat removed is measured and documented in each patient’s medical chart. As the suction removes the excess fat through the tube, the plastic surgeon is able to manipulate the cannula and sculpt the treated area during the procedure.
The manner in which liposuction is done today has certainly evolved since its inception and there are several newer liposuction techniques.
- Ultrasound-assisted liposuction: This technique uses ultrasound technology by way of a cannula to detect fat. The cannula emits ultrasonic waves which also helps to break apart the fat, making the fat easier to suction.
- Tumescent liposuction: This technique provides local anesthesia to large volumes of subcutaneous fat and allows liposuction. Tumescent liposuction is more popular and safer than traditional liposuction, with a faster recovery time. Tumescent liposuction involves using multiple small incisions and bimodal compression to promote drainage, making it less likely to get infected. Results begin after 10 days and continue to improve to up one year.
- Power-assisted liposuction (PAL) devices: The technology utilizes a cannula which also breaks up fat using heat to dissolve the fat cells. This technique effectively removes fat in a shorter period of time, making recovery less tedious. Smart lipo is one of the more frequently used PAL devices.
Can fat be removed without surgery?
Yes! If your goal is to remove stubborn pockets of fat that you are unable to reduce by maintaining a healthy diet and daily exercise, and do not want the downtime or cost associated with liposuction or plastic surgery, there are now many non-invasive fat reduction options available. Whether you are interested in cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting), injection lipolysis (Kybella), or laser lipolysis (SculpSure), it is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green to determine which non-surgical fat reduction treatment option is best for your body type and aesthetic goals. Dr. Green will compile a treatment plan, often utilizing various modern technologies, to achieve the optimal results.
How to get rid of belly fat without surgery
The most popular non-invasive treatment to reduce stubborn pockets of fat on the belly is CoolSculpting. CoolSculpting relies on cryolipolysis to destroy fat cells in the targeted area while leaving surrounding tissue unharmed. Not only can CoolSculpting be used to treat the upper and lower abdomen, but can also be used for unwanted fat removal in the love handles and bra area. There is minimal, if any, discomfort associated with this fat freezing body contouring procedure, and zero downtime involved whatsoever. After a single treatment session, up to 25% of fat cells in the treatment area are eliminated, which is among the reasons why CoolSculpting is the most popular non-surgical fat reduction treatment. Patients can resume daily activities immediately after their treatment is complete, including work and exercise. A treatment session can take 35 to 75 minutes, depending on which applicator is needed for the treatment area. The results begin to be noticeable within the first 6 weeks following treatment, with the final results showing after 4 months. The results are permanent, as long as there is no significant weight gain after the procedure. Kybella injections are an additional alternative to CoolSculpting for the permanent reduction of small pockets of unwanted fat bulges.
Is non-surgical belly fat removal safe?
Yes! Non-surgical fat removal is safe and effective when the cosmetic procedure is performed by a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York. In fact, removing fat bulges from the abdomen is one of the most popularly targeted areas of the body for patients being treated with CoolSculpting at Dr. Green’s private NYC dermatology office. Prior to your CoolSculpting procedure, Dr. Green will physically assess the problem areas to ensure that you are an ideal candidate and that you will observe optimal results from treatment.
Other Non-Surgical Fat Reduction Treatments
SculpSure
In addition to CoolSculpting, some doctors may recommend SculpSure, which is a laser that melts fat cells using heat. SculpSure® tends to take more treatments per area than CoolSculpting, to get the same results; making SculpSure a more expensive alternative.
SculpSure is an FDA hyperthermic laser for fat removal. Also known as WarmSculpting™, SculpSure removes fat using heat to break up the fat cells. The laser heat energy is delivered to the targeted treatment areas and is approved to treat the “double chin”, abdomen, inner and outer thighs, and flanks. SculpSure, like other non-invasive fat removal treatments, is meant to eliminate stubborn areas of fat in individuals with a body mass index of 30 or less. These treatments are not intended for weight loss since they do not de-bulk fat and sculpt the body. One of the benefits of SculpSure as a non-surgical procedure, is that the average treatment takes 25 minutes with no downtime. After your procedure you can resume your normal activities. SculpSure has been showed to reduce fat by 24% in a given area within 6 to 12 weeks. Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary for the desired fat reduction.
Find out the differences between CoolSculpting and Sculpsure here.
InstaLipo
Instalipo is another noninvasive method of fat reduction which has become popular. This method involves red light therapy which delivers photonic energy to the targeted areas of fat. Through red light, the fat cells are drained of their contents (mostly triglycerides and fatty acids) and shrinks in size. The result is that the size of your fat cells are reduced leading to a slimmer appearance and fat reduction with no down time.
FaceTite and AccuTite
These two non-surgical procedures address skin laxity using radiofrequency heat. This technology offers similar outcomes as surgical fat removal procedures such as liposuction, but without the downtime. AccuTite has been FDA approved to treat the abdomen, upper arms, flanks, inner thighs, outer thighs, knees and bra fat while FaceTite is approved to treat the forehead, cheeks, jowls, and neck. The treatment entails using a handheld radiofrequency device that delivers heat to the fat cells breaking down the fat. Radiofrequency and heat is used to sculpt the treated areas yielding fat removal results. In addition, the treatment aids in collagen and elastin production, restoring the skin to its youthfulness. Both procedures can be done on the same day, and it takes one hour to treat each area. The treatment can be done in one hour and typically the results of one treatment may last a few years, depending on your condition.
Vanquish
The Vanquish® laser treatment uses radiofrequency energy to heat the fat in the targeted areas. Vanquish® can be used on multiple areas of the body including the abdomen, love handles, buttocks, arms, and legs.
This non surgical fat reduction technology delivers deep tissue heating causing lipolysis, (liquefies the fat) without making physical contact with the skin. After the treatment, your body naturally eliminates the dead fat cells. You can resume normal activities immediately after treatment without any side effects. Special care must be taken not to use excessive heat, to avoid thermal burns as a potential side effect. One of the key considerations in the effectiveness of this procedure is the hydration of the patient before the procedure. If the patient has not hydrated properly for two days before, the procedure may not be effective.
Liposonix
Liposonix is a non-invasive procedure, FDA approved for fat reduction, which uses high intensity ultrasound energy laser to reduce fat cells. The LipoSonix treatment works well for both men and women looking for modest fat reduction in the arms, thighs, and waistline. Ideal candidates are individuals in good health having no underlying risk factors with stubborn areas of fat, with an inch of fat that needs treatment in the desired treated area.
You may experience some pain or discomfort during treatment such as a tingling or prickly sensation with bouts of heat and cold. The treated area may be slightly bruised with notable redness and swelling. Following the treatment, results can be seen in as little as 2-3 months; individual results can vary depending on the treated area. Many individuals have reported an inch or more reduction around the waistline. Although Liposonix® is a non-surgical procedure, there is some downtime as side effects have included pain and bruising.
Zerona
Zerona is a noninvasive fat reduction laser treatment which uses a laser that emits cold laser energy into the body’s tissues to destroy the fat cells. This treatment works best for the abdomen, arms, buttocks and thighs. The cool laser energy forces the fat deposits to break down, which is then absorbed by the body and excreted through the body’s natural processes. This procedure is painless as there is no contact with your skin and the laser. Each treatment takes approximately 40 minutes per area and results can be seen in a few weeks. Multiple treatments are needed to have the full cosmetic results.
Emsculpt
Emsculpt uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy to trigger supramaximal contractions. Emsculpt was FDA approved to improve abdominal and buttock tone, and strengthen and firm these muscles. New indications for the arms were approved to tone and strengthen them as well. One of the main problems with Emsculpt is that the effects last approximately six months and maintenance sessions are needed to continue with these desired results. A good candidate is someone who is in good shape and physically fit and looking to tone and strengthen these muscles. Emsculpt has been reported to build muscle and have fat reduction at the same time. It is believed that Emsculpt works by stimulating these muscle contractions, and producing better muscle tone and enhancing fat metabolism. Side effects include only some temporary muscle discomfort.
UltraShape
UltraShape is a non-invasive fat reduction technology that utilizes targeted ultrasound therapy to reduce unwanted fat. UltraShape is safe and FDA approved to reduce abdominal circumference and flanks. UltraShape technology uses high intensity sound waves to target and destroy fat cells in the treatment area without affecting the surrounding tissue. When the walls of the fat cells are destroyed, the fat is released as triglycerides, which are then processed by the liver and removed from the body. UltraShape produces permanent results because the targeted fat cells that are destroyed during the procedure cannot regenerate. However, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise after the procedure because the fat cells in the surrounding areas can increase in size with weight gain. During the procedure, you may feel tingling and a warm sensation, and there is no downtime involved with UltraShape. You can resume normal daily activities immediately after the treatment. There are some reports of minor bruising immediately after the procedure. The results can be seen within two weeks of the treatment, though three treatments, two weeks apart are typically recommended for optimal results.
Thermage combined with non-invasive fat removal procedures
Thermage is an FDA approved, non-invasive cosmetic procedure for skin tightening that relies on radiofrequency energy to stimulate new collagen production in the treatment area. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in the skin that provides it with structural support and a firm, smooth texture. Thermage can be used to treat the face, neck, chest, décolletage, upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. Thermage FLX is equipped with innovative AccuREP technology to evenly disperse the radio frequency energy, resulting in a faster treatment time and enhanced skin tightening results. Many patients that are interested in non-surgical fat reduction treatments are also concerned with some degree of skin laxity. Thermage can easily be combined with other non-invasive cosmetic procedures and non-surgical fat reduction treatments for optimal results in body contouring. Many patients have a combination of CoolSculpting and Thermage for their jowls to first tighten the skin and then remove the fat. Similarly, the abdomen is another popular area to treat the area with both technologies- skin tightening with Thermage and fat reduction with CoolSculpting. When you consult with Dr. Green for your non-invasive body contouring, she will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that incorporates the cosmetic procedures that are best suited to addressing your specific concerns and achieving your ideal aesthetic goals.
What is non-surgical body contouring?
Body contouring is any procedure by which you make an effort to control the shape or contour of areas of your body. Some patients who are looking to make a change to the shape of their body through fat reduction turn to a cosmetic surgeon for a procedure such as Liposuction. Liposuction is a highly invasive procedure with a significant risk of side effects and a long recovery time. For that reason, many people choose to turn to non-surgical means of body contouring. For some, this can manifest as making a commitment to healthy lifestyle choices but even eating well and exercising does not always provide the desired results. For that reason, non-surgical body contouring also includes treatments such as those listed above, including CoolSculpting, Kybella, SculpSure, and Vanquish. These are treatments that help to shape and define areas of the body without making any incisions. These treatments provide effective body contouring results without any significant downtime or as much of a risk of serious side effects. While non-surgical body contouring is very effective at de-bulking areas of the body, surgical methods will have more dramatic fat reduction results.
Does laser fat reduction work?
Yes, laser fat reduction is a safe and effective non-surgical procedure for decreasing fat cells in the targeted area. Lasers like SculpSure are FDA approved and use heat to damage the fat cells, ultimately destroying them. Clinical studies have shown that up to 24% of fat cells in the treated area are destroyed with SculpSure. However, laser fat reduction requires two or three treatment sessions per given treatment area to completely remove the unwanted fat and achieve optimal results. With fewer treatment sessions required to achieve ideal results, and more clinical data supporting its efficacy and safety, CoolSculpting is the most popular non-surgical fat reduction procedure available at the private, boutique dermatology office of Dr. Michele Green, located in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to determine which non-surgical fat reduction procedure you are an ideal candidate for and will help achieve your body contouring aesthetic goals.
Is 3D Lipo permanent?
3D Lipo is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that incorporates multiple treatment modalities to achieve fat removal, skin tightening, or cellulite reduction. The various technologies that may be used include radiofrequency energy, ultrasound energy, and cryolipolysis. The fat reduction results from this treatment are generally permanent so long as there is no additional weight gain following the procedure. Patients may require multiple treatment sessions in order to achieve optimal results.
Does non-surgical fat removal work?
Yes! There are many non-surgical fat removal procedures that are safe and effective options for reducing stubborn pockets of fat. CoolSculpting is the most popular non-invasive treatment that utilizes cryolipolysis to freeze and destroy excess fat cells in a given treatment area without damaging the skin or the surrounding tissue. Clinical studies have shown up to 25% of fat cells in the treated area are destroyed with one CoolSculpting treatment session, and up to 40% with two treatment sessions in the same treatment area. 83% of patients are satisfied with their CoolSculpting treatment results, the highest rate for patient satisfaction compared to other non-invasive fat reduction technologies. To guarantee that you achieve and maintain optimal results from your non-surgical fat removal procedures, it’s important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist for your treatment. A board certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in Manhattan, has extensive medical knowledge and training related to non-surgical fat removal treatments, and having treatment with a medical professional limits the potential for encountering unwanted or dangerous side effects of treatment. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, she will physically assess the problem area and help you determine which non-surgical fat removal procedure you are an ideal candidate for to ensure that you get optimal results.
CoolSculpting on Arms, before and after photo
Potential Side Effects of Non-Surgical fat removal
One of the reasons that many patients opt for non-surgical fat removal procedures over surgical liposuction is that there are far fewer and less severe potential side effects with non-surgical treatment options. Depending on which non-invasive fat reduction technology is used, however, there are a wide variety of potential side effects that patients may experience. CoolSculpting, one of the most popular non-surgical fat reduction treatments offered at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office, can cause side effects such as swelling, numbness, and bruising in the treatment area, and there have been rare incidents of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia. SculpSure, a laser treatment for fat removal, can cause pain or nodule formation, Liposonix can cause pain and bruising, and Vanquish may cause a burn from the heat. These side effects are all rare, and many patients experience mild, if any, side effects when treated with non-invasive fat removal devices. Surgical liposuction, however, is an invasive plastic surgery procedure that is associated with a greater number of potential side effects, many of which are more severe. These side effects include the effects of general anesthesia, bruising, deep vein thrombosis, infection, contour irregularities, and damage of deeper structures such as blood vessels and internal organs.
How do I get started with non-surgical fat removal today?
Even with the strictest diet and exercise routine, some stubborn pockets of fat just refuse to budge. Surgical liposuction used to be the only treatment option for removing excess unwanted fat, an invasive plastic surgery procedure that entails incisions, anesthesia, a lengthy recovery time, and many potential side effects. Now, non-surgical fat reduction treatments can be used to target excess fat cells in almost any area of the body, including the most common problem areas such as the double chin, upper arms, love handles, outer thighs, and tummy bulges, with essentially zero downtime! There are many safe and effective treatment options for non-invasive fat removal available at the private dermatology office of Dr. Michele Green, and she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan for non-invasive body contouring that provides you with optimal results.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned expert in the field of dermatology with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients from around the globe with the best skincare and non-invasive medical and cosmetic procedures available, including non-surgical fat reduction treatments. For her dedication to her patients and expertise, she is consistently voted one of the best dermatologists in New York City by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times. If you are interested in learning more about non-invasive body contouring treatments, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green by contacting our NYC based office today or calling 212-535-3088.