EMSCULPT NEO
Build Muscle & Burn Fat Non-surgically in the San Diego Area
Art of Skin MD is the FIRST dermatology practice in San Diego to provide EMSCULPT NEO. EMSCULPT NEO combines HIFEM+ and RF energy to tone the abdomen and shape the buttocks, arms, and calves. Dr. Melanie Palm is one of a few elite group of physicians nationwide to unveil this non-invasive, non-surgical, no pain approach to eliminate unwanted fat and build muscle. Dr. Palm serves as a clinical investigator, advisory board member, speaker and consultant for BTL, the company that makes EMSCULPT NEO. Her expertise with EMSCULPT NEO is featured in Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and New Beauty.
Enhanced No-Downtime Fat Removal & Muscle Toning
What is EMSCULPT NEO?
EMSCULPT NEO is the next generation of muscle building and fat reducing technologies. It is FDA-cleared for the breakdown of fat, reduction in abdominal/waist circumference, strengthening and tone improvement of the abdomen, and firming of buttocks, thighs, arms, and calves. It is a no downtime, pain-free, nonsurgical means of building muscle and burning fat.
EMSCULPT NEO creates supramaximal muscle contraction – this is a level of muscle work beyond what is possible through physical training, yielding better muscle tone and enhanced fat metabolism. EMSCULPT NEO results are backed by 7 clinical studies that consistently demonstrate 30% fat loss, 25% muscle mass gain, 19% reduction in abdominal separation and a 5.9 cm (2.3 inches) reduction in waist circumference.
What Results are Typical with EMSCULPT NEO?
BTL, the manufacturer of EMSCULPT, conducted 30 studies on HIFEM technology including 7 new clinical studies on EMSCULPT NEO. Clinical studies measured fat and muscle by imaging (ultrasound, CT scans and MRI studies), compared photos before and after treatment, and measured changes in waistline measurements.
On average, the following were achieved in EMSCULPT NEO clinical studies on healthy patients:
- 30% reduction of fat
- 25% more muscle
- 19% reduction in abdominal muscle separation (called diastasis recti)
- 9 cm (2.3 inches) loss in waistline circumference
- 30% increase in satellite cells – stem cell precursors to new muscle cells
- Muscle changes similar to a 12-16 week workout regimen
- 88%-100% patient satisfaction
How Does EMSCULPT NEO Work?
EMSCULPT NEO combines two powerful technologies for the first time in a single treatment handpiece: high intensity focused electromagnetic energy (HIFEM) and radiofrequency (RF). The combination of HIFEM and RF not only dramatically improves fat reduction and muscle mass, but the warmth created during treatment enhances muscle treatment and procedure comfort.
HIFEM
EMSCULPT NEO produces HIFEM+. This is an improved pulse pattern of “supramaximal” muscle contraction that produces 20% more contraction time in 30 minutes compared to the original EMSCULPT device.
A single EMSCULPT treatment produces thousands of electrical pulses that trigger muscle contractions. Ninety to 100% of muscle fibers in the treated area are contracted during EMSCULPT NEO treatment. This muscle contraction leads to building of new muscle mass (increased tone and muscle definition) as well as enhanced fat metabolism through lipolysis, or destruction of fat cells. In fact, clinical studies have shown that EMSCULPT NEO creates both muscle growth (hypertrophy) and new muscle cell production (hyperplasia).
Synchronized RF
EMSCULPT NEO is a true technological feat. Previously, it was impossible to deliver both HIFEM and RF to tissues simultaneously as the device would malfunction as RF created superheating of the HIFEM element. EMSCULPT NEO’s treatment paddle allows the RF energy from 112 electrodes to flow freely through channels in the HIFEM component, allowing both to be active at the same time.
Radiofrequency creates bulk heating of tissues. The extremely efficient and deeper penetration of RF produced by EMSCULPT NEO allows fat to be heated to 43 degrees Celsius within 4 minutes of treatment. Due to real-time feedback in the treatment applicator, thermal sensing keep tissue warm, but not hot. This special temperature of the fat, between 43-45 degrees Celsius, enhances fat cell destruction. A cooler, gentle heat is also delivered to the muscle tissue, prewarming muscle to receive more effective contraction.
How Many EMSCULPT NEO Treatments are Needed?
Clinical studies with EMSCULPT for the abdomen and buttocks treated patients for 30 minutes, once a week. A series of 4 treatments is recommended. Typically, one treatment every 3-6 months for maintenance is recommended to maintain results.
Who is a Good Candidate for EMSCULPT NEO?
Most adults that desire more definition of their abs, arms, thighs, or calves, or lifting of the buttocks are ideal candidates for EMSCULPT NEO . EMSCULPT NEO is approved for patients with a BMI of up to 35, which provides this technology to a wide variety of body shapes and fitness levels. Like other fat reducing or body contouring procedures, they are best paired with reasonable dietary and exercise habits and are not considered a substitute for weight loss programs.
What Areas of the Body Can be Treated with EMSCULPT NEO?
EMSCULPT NEO is FDA-cleared for the following areas that benefit from either increased muscle tone and/or enhanced fat metabolism:
- Abdomen
- Buttocks
- Triceps (flabby upper arms)
- Thighs
- Calves
EMSCULPT NEO Treatment FAQ
EMSCULPT is not painful, it simply feels like a series of strong muscle contractions. Thinner patients may feel EMSCULPT more, and decreased energies may be used during treatment. Many patients tend to instinctively smile or laugh during the first few minutes, then the body adapts to the rhythm of muscle contractions and it’s easily tolerated.
According to clinical studies, patients had an average of a 20% reduction in fat and a 1.5 inch average loss in waistline measurements following a series of 4 EMSCULPT treatments.
In clinical studies, patients gained 16% muscle mass after a series of 4 treatments with EMSCULPT.
No preparation is required prior to EMSCULPT treatment. As your muscles in the treatment area will be strongly contracting, prepare as you would prior to a rigorous strength training session at the gym. Empty your bladder and avoid a full meal immediately prior to treatment
An EMSCULPT treatment session lasts 30 minutes. Clinical studies on EMSCULPT were done as a series of 4 treatments total – twice weekly treatments for 2 weeks.
The area of treatment may be mildly sore, similar to a strength training workout. This may persist for a day following treatment.
No, the majority of patients immediately resume normal activities following treatment.
Some patients notice increased muscle tone of the abs one day following treatment. The roughly 16% increase in muscle mass and 20% reduction in fat were measured 2 months after the 4th treatment.
Yes, clinical studies demonstrate an 11% reduction in diastasis recti following 4 treatments with EMSCULPT. Diastasis recti is a medical term describing separation of the abdominal muscles. In extreme cases, it can cause a midline hernia (ventral hernia) or bulging of abdominal tissues. This most commonly occurs during pregnancy, as the belly increases in size to accommodate a growing baby. The increasing size of the womb stretches the abdominal muscles, leading to diastasis recti. EMSCULPT offers the first non-surgical means of improving diastasis recti.
Patients with significant fat stores may not be ideal candidates for EMSCULPT. The HIFEM (High Intensity Focused Electro Magnetic) energy used to power EMSCULPT penetrates to about 7 cm. Those with thicker fat stores may not get as significant of muscle contraction, resulting in less results following treatment.
Pregnant and nursing females should not undergo treatment with EMSCULPT.
Women who are close to menstruation may find that it comes sooner or cramping is increased/intensified with EMSCULPT treatments, therefore we recommend not undergoing treatment during this time of the month.
Possible contraindications to treatment include the following:
- Metal or electronic implants in the treatment area
- Cardiac pacemakers
- Implanted defibrillators
- Implanted neurostimulators
- Drug pumps
- Malignant tumor
- Hemorrhagic conditions
- Epilepsy
- Recent surgical procedures
No, but it is the closest analogy to HIFEM (High Intensity Focused Electro Magnetic) energy used to power EMSCULPT. TENS, (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) devices, produce small amounts of battery-powered electrical energy to stimulate muscle contraction. TENS devices are used to treat pain disorders.
EMSCULPT, on the other hand, is an extremely powerful device measured in Tesla, a measurement of magnetic induction often used to describe MRI imaging. EMSCULPT is capable of producing supraphysiologic contraction of muscles and is exponentially more powerful than a TENS device.
Yes, focused electromagnetic energy from EMSCULPT is considered safe. As mentioned previously, mild soreness similar to that after a muscle workout is twice-weekly and expected side effect from EMSCULPT treatment.
EMSCULPT is a non-surgical approach to high-definition abs and butt lifting. It has no downtime or pain, but requires a series of treatments and periodic maintenance.
Liposuction (liposculpture) is the gold standard of fat removal. At Art of Skin MD, liposculpture is a minimally-invasive surgical procedure performed under local numbing called tumescent anesthesia. It’s intended for areas of unwanted fat that are not responsive to diet and exercise. Liposculpture is capable of removing large volumes of fat in a single treatment but involves some degree of downtime.
Cryolipolysis,often termed “CoolSculpting” by Zeltiq, is a method of non-invasive fat removal that freezes fat, causing fat cell death and elimination. Like Vanquish, CoolSculpting is non-invasive and can reduce unwanted fat. However, cryolipolysis is a form of spot treatment for fat reduction. Larger areas such as the abdomen often require multiple applications, with each session lasting 1 hour. The fat is frozen during treatment, and must be massaged, as it feels like a frozen stick of butter immediately after treatment.
In a small minority of cases, cryolipolysis can cause significant discomfort following treatment, rarely requiring pain medication after treatment. Additionally, cryolipolysis is somewhat technique-dependent. Multiple applicators to treat a large area such as the abdomen must be stacked and overlapped to avoid irregularities following treatment.
Vanquish uses heat to lead to the permanent removal of unwanted fat. It’s intended for individuals who struggle with stubborn areas of fat deposition, resistant to dietary and exercise measures. It’s excellent at “de-bulking” or non-invasively reducing the abdomen and flanks simultaneously. It’s not a substitute for liposuction, which allows a greater volume of fat removal. However, for some patients who are not candidates for CoolSculpting, or who do not wish to undergo surgery, Vanquish may be a good treatment option.
Yes, EMSCULPT can be combined with non-invasive fat removal procedures like CoolSculpting and Vanquish to enhance fat reduction. For the buttocks, Sculptra, fat transfer or Ultherapy may be combined with EMSCULPT to shape and lift the derriere.
Fat cells destroyed by increased fat metabolism with EMSCULPT is permanent. However, weight gain causes remaining fat cells to grow, leading to possible loss of effect.
Muscle mass is not permanent, but likely lasts 6 months or longer. Periodic EMSCULPT treatments can maintain the muscle tone achieved from an initial series of EMSCULPT treatments.
A healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise maintenance, is encouraged following your series of EMSCULPT treatments. An increase in weight will allow fat stores to accumulate. This may occur disproportionately in areas untreated by EMSCULPT.
How does EMSCULPT NEO feel like? Does it hurt?
EMSCULPT NEO is not painful, it simply feels like a series of strong muscle contractions with the warmth of a heating pad. Thinner patients may feel EMSCULPT more, and decreased energies may be used during treatment. For many patients, they may instinctively smile or laugh during the first few minutes. After a few minutes, the body adapts to the rhythm of muscle contractions and is easily tolerated.
How Much Does EMSCULPT Cost?
EMSCULPT is sold as a package of four treatments. Periodic maintenance with a single treatment every 3-6 months is encouraged. A single treatment of EMSCULPT ranges nationally from $750-$1500 per treatment.
How much fat will I lose with a series of EMSCULPT?
According to clinical studies, patients had a 30% reduction in fat and a 2.5 inch average loss in waistline measurements following 4 treatments of EMSCULPT NEO to the abdomen. Buttocks treatment is administered with HIFEM+ without heating by RF. Thus fat in the buttocks region is not decreased by HIFEM according to clinical studies.
How much muscle mass will I tone with a series of EMSCULPT NEO?
In clinical studies, patients gained 25% muscle mass after 4 treatments with EMSCULPT NEO to the abdomen.
How should I prepare for EMSCULPT NEO treatment?
No preparation is required prior to EMSCULPT NEO treatment. As your muscles in the treatment area will be strongly contracting, prepare as you would prior to a rigorous strength training session at the gym. Empty your bladder and avoid a full meal immediately prior to treatment.
How long is an EMSCULPT NEO treatment session? How many treatments will I need?
An EMSCULPT NEO treatment session lasts 30 minutes. EMSCULPT NEO is completed as a series of 4 total treatments – once weekly for a month.
Is there any downtime following EMSCULPT NEO treatment?
No, the majority of patients immediately resume normal activities following treatment.
How long does it take to see results following EMSCULPT NEO?
Some patients notice increased muscle tone of the abs a day following treatment. Increased muscle mass and fat reduction occur by 1 month following EMSCULPT NEO treatment. At 3 months following treatment, an average 30% fat loss and 25% increase in muscle mass is achievable in the abdominal area.
Does EMSCULPT NEO help diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation after pregnancy)?
Yes, clinical studies demonstrate an 19% reduction in diastasis recti following 3 treatments with EMSCULPT NEO. Diastasis recti is a medical term describing separation of the abdominal muscles. In extreme cases, then can cause a midline hernia (ventral hernia) or bulging of abdominal tissues. This most commonly occurs during pregnancy as the belly increases in size to accommodate a growing baby. The increasing size of the womb stretches the abdominal muscles, leading to diastasis recti. EMSCULPT NEO offers the first nonsurgical means of improving abdominal muscle separation.
Who is a poor candidate for EMSCULPT NEO? Are there contraindications?
The HIFEM energy used to power EMSCULPT NEO penetrates to about 7 cm. Those with thicker fat stores may not get as significant of muscle contraction, and therefore less results following treatment. However, EMSCULPT NEO is FDA-cleared for individuals with a body mass index of up to 35.
Pregnant and nursing females should not undergo treatment with EMSCULPT NEO.
Possible contraindications to treatment include the following:
- Metal or electronic implants in the treatment area
- Cardiac pacemakers
- Implanted defibrillators
- Implanted neurostimulators
- Drug pumps
- Malignant tumor
- Hemorrhagic conditions
- Eplilepsy
- Recent surgical procedures
Is EMSCULPT NEO a TENS device?
No, but it is the closest analogy to HIFEM (High Intensity Focused Electro Magnetic) energy used to power the HIFEM+ technology of EMSCULPT NEO. TENS, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation devices, produce small amounts of battery-powered electrical energy to stimulate muscle contraction. TENS devices are used to treat pain disorders.
EMSCULPT NEO, on the other hand, is an extremely powerful device measured in Tesla, a measurement of magnetic induction often used to describe MRI imaging. EMSCULPT NEO’s HIFEM+ energy is capable of producing supraphysiologic contraction of muscles and is exponentially more powerful than a TENS device. Contrary to TENS devices, EMSCULPT NEO has shown no risk to produce skin injuries including burns.
How does EMSCULPT NEO compare to other methods of fat reduction such as liposuction, CoolSculpting, or Vanquish?
EMSCULPT NEO is a nonsurgical approach to high definition abs, arms, thighs, calves and butt lifting. It has no downtime or pain, but requires a series of treatments and periodic maintenance.
Liposuction (liposculpture) is the gold standard of fat removal. At Art of Skin MD, liposculpture is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed under local numbing called tumescent anesthesia. It is intended for areas of unwanted fat not responsive to diet and exercise measures. Liposculpture is capable of removing large volumes of fat in a single treatment but involves some degree of downtime.
Cryolipolysis, often termed “CoolSculpting” by Zeltiq, is a method of non-invasive fat removal that freezes fat, causing fat death and elimination. Like Vanquish, CoolSculpting is non-invasive and can reduce unwanted fat. However, cryolipolysis is a form of spot treatment for fat reduction. Larger areas such as the abdomen often require multiple applications, each session lasting 1 hour. The fat during treatment is frozen, and must be massaged afterwards, as it feels like a frozen stick of butter after treatment.
In a small minority of cases, cryolipolysis can cause significant discomfort following treatment, rarely requiring pain medication after treatment. Additionally, cryolipolysis is somewhat technique-dependent. Multiple applicators to treat a large area such as the abdomen must be stacked and overlapped to avoid irregularities following treatment.
Vanquish heats fat instead of freezing fat, leading to its permanent removal similar to CoolSculpting. It is intended for individuals that struggle with stubborn areas of fat deposition, resistant to dietary and exercise measures. It is excellent at “debulking” or noninvasively reducing the abdomen and flanks simultaneously. It is not a substitute for liposuction, which allows a greater volume of fat removal. However, for some patients that are not candidates for CoolSculpting or who do not wish to undergo surgery, Vanquish may be a good treatment option.
Why Choose Art of Skin MD for EMSCULPT NEO treatment in San Diego?
Dr. Palm is among the first physicians nationally to offer EMSCULPT NEO to her patients. She serves as a national lecturer for EMSCULPT NEO and is a principal investigator for studies for both EMSCULPT and EMSCULPT NEO. Art of Skin MD has had early and advanced knowledge and expertise to deliver appropriate and meaningful results with EMSCULPT NEO.
If you are looking for an EMSCULPT NEO expert in the San Diego area for non-invasive, non-surgical fat removal and muscle toning, call Dr. Melanie Palm at 858.792.SKIN (7546) to schedule your appointment.
