CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo are popular non-surgical treatments to sculpt the body at our physician-led Colorado Springs medspa. Both are FDA-cleared body contouring options and require no downtime. But how do they compare and how do you know which one is right for you?
Here are the key differences between CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo so you can make an informed decision based on your unique goals.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis, or controlled cooling, to freeze and destroy fat cells. We use CoolSculpting to target stubborn fat bulges in areas like the abdomen, flanks, thighs, back, arms, and under the chin. Your body naturally eliminates the treated fat cells over the next few weeks. Once these cells are processed out of your body, they are gone for good.
Pros of CoolSculpting:
- Targets stubborn pockets of fat that resist diet and exercise
- Non-invasive with no needles or anesthesia
- Works well on multiple areas of the body
- Results can be long-lasting with healthy habits
Cons of CoolSculpting:
- Does not build muscle or tone treated areas
- Typically requires multiple sessions to see ideal results
- Some patients report temporary numbness, tingling, or bruising after treatment
- There’s a rare risk of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where fat hardens and becomes enlarged instead of being reduced
CoolSculpting targets and reduces localized fat pockets, while Emsculpt Neo goes a step further by burning fat and building muscle simultaneously.
What is Emsculpt Neo?
Emsculpt Neo is an advanced body sculpting treatment that combines radiofrequency (RF) energy with high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM+) technology to simultaneously burn fat and build muscle in the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, arms, calves, and more.
Pros of Emsculpt Neo:
- Builds muscle and burns fat in a single treatment
- Achieves 25% more muscle and 30% less fat on average (in clinical studies)
- Reduces visceral fat (fat around your organs that’s associated with chronic disease)
- No downtime and quick treatment times (about 30 minutes)
- Can improve core strength and posture
- Enhances athletic performance
- Has functional benefits including muscle strengthening, improved range of motion, enhanced circulation, and pain relief
Cons of Emsculpt Neo:
- May not be suitable for people with metal implants or certain medical conditions
- Works best for those closer to their ideal weight
- Mild muscle soreness may occur, similar to post-workout fatigue
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Which non-surgical body contouring treatment is better for you?
CoolSculpting may be a good fit if your main goal is to reduce localized fat bulges. Emsculpt Neo may be the better choice if you’re looking for a more comprehensive body transformation that offers more functional and aesthetic benefits.
Emsculpt Neo is especially beneficial if you:
- Want visible muscle definition along with fat reduction
- Are working on core strength or postpartum recovery
- Have pain from conditions like patella bursitis, plantar fasciitis, or other muscle-related issues
- Want faster, more comprehensive results
- Prefer treatments with no risk of PAH
“I can’t say enough about the professionalism, yet warmth and candor, that Dr. Kenya showed to me. Knowing I was working with an actual physician gave me comfort throughout my procedure. Great follow up as well. Drs Lee care about their clients and it shows in everything they do. The facility itself is gorgeous as well!”
—5-star Google review
Can I get both?
Yes, in some cases, you can combine CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo to enhance both aesthetic results and functional benefits. However, combining treatments isn’t always necessary or ideal for everyone. During your in-person consultation with one of our expert providers, we’ll explain whether a combo approach is best suited for your needs, and help you time each treatment to experience the strongest benefit from each.
Ready to sculpt your body without surgery?
Schedule a consultation at our Colorado Springs medical spa today to learn more about CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo and which is the right fit for you. We invite you to call our office at 719-452-8541 or book your appointment online.
