Body contouring, sometimes called body sculpting, is a procedure that helps shape the body by eliminating fat or toning muscles in targeted areas. Body contouring is not an alternative to weight loss surgery. Instead, it helps target stubborn fat that is difficult to eliminate with exercise alone. Body contouring can also help tone muscles to give the body a firmer look and feel.
Non-Invasive Body Contouring
While surgical body contouring methods are available, non-surgical procedures are preferred and yield similar results. Non-invasive body contouring options include the use of cold, heat or lasers to melt away excess fat and reshape the body in the desired area.
Two popular methods of non-invasive body contouring are CoolSculpting and CoolTone. Both are equally effective, but it’s important to understand the difference between them.
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting, a commercial name for cryolipolysis, is one of the most common body contouring methods and is currently the only FDA-approved cryolipolysis device in the United States.
CoolSculpting helps destroy stubborn fat cells in the body by subjecting them to freezing temperatures, reducing up to 25% of fat cells in the thighs, lower back, belly and other smaller areas like the chin. CoolSculpting can also help reduce the look of cellulite in the legs, buttocks and arms.
CoolSculpting is non-surgical and requires little recovery time. Results usually appear gradually and can last indefinitely. The key to preserving CoolSculpting results is maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly following the procedure.
CoolTone
Unlike CoolSculpting, CoolTone does not use any kind of freezing technique. Rather than melting fat, its purpose is to stimulate muscles in a targeted area, resulting in more toned muscles.
CoolTone uses a process called magnetic muscle stimulation to send bursts of electromagnetic energy to the muscles, causing them to contract and tighten. This process helps strengthen the muscle fibers, improving their physical shape. CoolTone does not, however, significantly increase the size of any muscles.
CoolTone is an ideal option for those looking to tighten areas of the body that they have had little luck with through exercise. It’s important to remember that to get the most out of a CoolTone procedure, you should be at or around your goal weight, as results of CoolTone will be less apparent if there is significant fat covering the muscles. For this reason, many clients opt for both CoolSculpting and CoolTone as complementary procedures.
Body Contouring Before and After
Before
The first step to a body contouring procedure is a thorough consultation. Before a body contouring procedure, you’ll meet with your practitioner to discuss the following:
- Your desired outcome
- Medical history, including health conditions, allergies and previous treatments or surgeries
- Any medications, vitamins or over-the-counter drugs you are taking
- Alcohol, tobacco and drug use
You and your practitioner will then discuss your options and review the risks and side effects of the procedure. Your practitioner will also examine the area you wish to change to assess whether you are eligible for the procedure. For example, fat must be soft and pinchable for CoolSculpting to be effective.
If you move forward with the procedure, you’ll be asked to sign a consent form giving the provider permission to carry out the procedure. The consent form also ensures you understand the procedure’s risks and what the outcome is likely to be.
After
Non-invasive body contouring procedures generally last 1 to 3 hours, with little recovery time afterward. Most patients can drive themselves home and resume their regular activities almost immediately following the procedure. Note that it is normal to feel mild pain or discomfort after a body contouring procedure.
Side effects from non-invasive body contouring are not serious and usually subside in a few days. Potential side effects after a CoolSculpting or CoolTone procedure include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tenderness
- Aching
- Cramping
- Skin sensitivity
While you can return to normal activities immediately, your practitioner will likely recommend refraining from heavy exercise or bathing in water that’s too hot. Be sure to drink plenty of water and rest after a body contouring procedure.
Results from non-invasive body contouring appear gradually and may take a few weeks to manifest fully. In general, most people who receive body contouring benefit from more desirably shaped & defined body parts, a slimmer appearance and smoother & tighter skin.
Get Body Contouring in NJ
Body contouring is a safe, fast, and cost-effective way to get rid of excess fat and tone your body. At the Skin Cancer and Cosmetic Surgery Center of NJ, Dr. Adriana Lombardi performs both CoolSculpting and CoolTone procedures in Edison, New Jersey.
With years of experience in dermatology and hundreds of body contouring procedures performed, Dr. Lombardi can help you decide which method is right for you.
