For those on a quest for a chiseled, superhero-like body, EmSculpt Neo emerges as a compelling option. Its innovative technology that promises to melt fat and tone muscles has caught the attention of healthcare professionals and fitness enthusiasts alike. Insights from board-certified dermatologist Bruce E. Katz, MD, and medical esthetician Evelyn Ramirez, MA, provide a well-rounded understanding of what this treatment can offer.
What is EmSculpt Neo?
EmSculpt Neo stands out as a revolutionary approach to body contouring, offering a non-invasive solution that uniquely blends radio frequency (RF) and high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy (HIFEM). This dual-action technology serves a twofold purpose: toning muscles and eliminating fat, all in one go. Bruce E. Katz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, elaborates on the mechanics, explaining that the HIFEM technology triggers muscle contractions, essentially serving as an intense workout for the targeted muscles.
Simultaneously, the RF component warms these muscles, aiding in breaking down and eliminating fat cells. Medical esthetician Evelyn Ramirez underscores the treatment’s versatility, noting that its dual capabilities make it an excellent option for a broad spectrum of individuals, whether they’re looking to shed some stubborn fat or achieve more defined musculature.
Benefits of EmSculpt Neo
- Core Strengthening: The treatment significantly enhances core strength, which improves appearance and has health benefits such as better posture and reduced back pain, according to experts.
- Fat Reduction: EmSculpt Neo’s radio frequency effectively reduces fat in stubborn areas. Ramirez notes that patients often see a 30% reduction in fat in the treated area.
- Muscle Tone Improvement: The treatment also improves muscle tone and has anti-aging benefits, as it helps restore lost muscle volume, says Katz.
Preparing for the Treatment
EmSculpt Neo does not necessitate extensive preparation before treatment, as medical esthetician Evelyn Ramirez stated. Both she and board-certified dermatologist Bruce E. Katz emphasize the importance of removing any metal jewelry before the session. This precaution is due to the heating effects of the radio frequency and HIFEM technologies used in the treatment, which could heat metal objects. Additionally, for those with metal implants, such as an intrauterine device (IUD), consultation with a healthcare provider is strongly advised to rule out potential complications.
What to Expect During the Treatment
The EmSculpt Neo treatment is administered using a large electric paddle that can be strategically placed on various body parts— the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks—depending on the individual’s specific goals. A smaller paddle is also available for targeting the arms. During one particular session, the abdomen was chosen as the focus area, aligning with the individual’s aspiration for a Marvel superhero-like physique. Medical esthetician Evelyn Ramirez positioned the paddle directly on the skin, securing it with a Velcro band.
Upon activating the paddle, the individual experiences a unique blend of sensations. It feels like a combination of the warmth from a heating pad, pulsating vibrations, and a near-magnetic pull that coaxs the abdominal muscles to the surface. Ramirez describes the sensation as akin to a hot stone massage, emphasizing that the treatment is customizable to suit each patient’s comfort level. While the treatment is not painful, it does require some getting used to, particularly the involuntary muscle contractions that give the impression of an external force controlling one’s muscles.
The entire procedure is relatively quick, taking approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Post-treatment, the individual was able to resume normal activities without any issues. There was a slight soreness in the abdominal area the following day, but it was not debilitating. It felt akin to the aftermath of an intense workout, serving as motivation to further complement the EmSculpt Neo treatment with regular exercise.
EmSculpt Neo vs. CoolSculpting
While CoolSculpting primarily aims to eliminate fat, EmSculpt Neo takes a more comprehensive approach by reducing fat and toning muscles. According to Bruce E. Katz, MD, the technologies behind these treatments are fundamentally different. CoolSculpting employs a method that freezes fat cells, reducing fat by approximately 17 to 19 percent without affecting the muscles. On the other hand, EmSculpt Neo utilizes a dual-action technology that melts fat and builds muscle, resulting in a more significant fat reduction of around 30 percent.
The sensory experiences of the two treatments are also notably distinct. CoolSculpting induces a numbing sensation on the skin, followed by a massage to break up the fat cells. In contrast, EmSculpt Neo offers a warmer sensation, akin to a hot stone massage, but with the added element of muscle contractions induced by HIFEM technology.
For individuals who have undergone both treatments, the downtime associated with CoolSculpting tends to be longer. While the results are significant, there is usually swelling in the treated area that lasts for a few days, and the numbing sensation can persist for weeks. EmSculpt Neo, however, does not have these drawbacks. The only sensation reported post-treatment is akin to completing an intense workout, which is generally not considered uncomfortable.
Aftercare
Surprisingly, EmSculpt Neo comes with virtually no downtime. According to Bruce E. Katz, MD, individuals can immediately return to regular activities following an EmSculpt Neo session. While applying an ice pack to the treated area is not recommended—since the tissues should remain warm for some time—there are no restrictions on post-treatment activities. Whether one engages in another workout or indulges in a hearty meal is entirely a personal choice.
Aware of the muscle contractions experienced during the treatment, akin to an intense workout, individuals are advised to hydrate post-session. Medical esthetician Evelyn Ramirez points out that the radio frequency used in the treatment benefits from hydration, aiding in the flushing out toxins from the body through sweat and urine. The day following the treatment, individuals commonly report a sensation similar to having completed a rigorous core workout, which is generally not limiting and is to be expected.
Takeaway
If the transformative potential of EmSculpt Neo has inspired you, there’s no better place to begin your journey than with APEX Performance & Aesthetics. As leaders in body contouring and aesthetic treatments, we offer personalized plans to meet your unique goals. Ready to experience the transformative power of EmSculpt Neo? Book your consultation with APEX Performance & Aesthetics today and take the first step toward achieving your body goals.
