Introduction to EMSculpt and CoolSculpting
EMSculpt and CoolScuplting are two methods of body contouring that can significantly change how your body looks. Both are leading nonsurgical strategies that are considered safe for most people. While they aim to improve body aesthetics, they function differently.
At ICLS, we offer a wide range of options for non-invasive cosmetic procedures. Regarding EMSculpt vs. CoolSculpting, our professionals will help you choose between both body contouring procedures to achieve optimal results for your needs.
CoolSculpting Versus EMSculpt: How Each Treatment Works
Both of these methods are nonsurgical fat reduction procedures that can target a specific treatment area. Let’s examine the differences in how they work.
How CoolSculpting Works
CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis, also known as fat freezing. This technology uses a cold temperature to reduce fat deposits in the treatment area. CoolSculpting is not a weight loss procedure. It is used to reduce localized fat deposits or specific bulges that do not respond to diet and exercise. If you have unwanted fat in an area that is not going away, CoolSculpting will freeze those fat cells to encourage the body to remove them.
Treatment areas where CoolScuplting is most effective include:
- Upper arms
- The area under the chin
- Abdomen
- Hip and flank areas
- Inner and outer thighs
- Lower back
- Under the buttocks
- Upper back
This type of fat reduction typically requires two treatment sessions for optimal results, with noticeable improvements appearing 8 to 12 weeks after the initial session, as the body naturally eliminates the affected fat cells following the fat-freezing process. Note that there is no difference between cryolipolysis and CoolSculpting—CoolSculpting is simply a branded form of cryolipolysis.
How EMSculpt Works
EMSculpt is another body sculpting procedure. It helps build muscle and burn fat to create a more contoured experience. EMSculpt works using high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology. A specific device is applied to the treatment area, causing contractions at a rapid pace. This prevents the muscle from relaxing, ultimately triggering a response in the area to burn fat and build muscle. Your body responds to treatment by creating firmer, stronger muscles as it burns stored fat through a metabolic reaction.
This type of electromagnetic muscle stimulation can create powerful results. In fact, one session leads to about the same results as thousands of sit-ups or squats.
Key Differences Between CoolSculpting and EMSculpt
When we think about CoolSculpting vs. EMSculpt, there are several differences to consider. Each body contouring treatment can provide you with treatment for stubborn fat areas. Neither method is beneficial as a weight loss treatment but rather a way to target very specific cells.
Fat Reduction vs. Muscle Building
CoolSculpting uses fat-reduction treatments that involve fat freezing. This causes the fat cells to die and the body to naturally remove them from your system. The process eliminates fat.
EMSculpt focuses more on muscle toning and firming. While it will burn fat, it is more about building stronger muscle fibres. It is not the same as muscle building through heavy weight lifting but rather allows for improved muscle tone and consistency in targeted areas. It’s good for back pain as well, from the perspective of strengthening the core.
If you are looking for a way to target fat cells because of stubborn fat pockets, using CoolScuplting may be beneficial as it gets rid of unwanted fat. However, if you want to build muscle and create a more refined muscle definition, then EMSculpt could be a better route.
Treatment Areas and Suitability Between EMSculpt vs. CoolSculpting
The body areas best suited for CoolSculpting include fat deposits in:
- Areas under the chin
- Upper arms
- Inner and outer thighs
- Love handles, or the hip and flank area
- Brassiere rolls, or upper back fatty pockets
- Lower back
- Areas under the buttocks
EMSculpt is better for muscle building and tone, especially in areas such as:
- Abdomen
- Buttocks
- Arms thighs
- Calves
Procedure, Sensations, Downtime
In CoolSculpting, a handheld device is applied to treatment areas, freezing the layer of fat cells just under the skin. To do this, a gel pad is placed on the area to protect the skin. There is a bit of a pulling sensation when suction is applied, and then cold. You may feel a bit of tingling and aching until the area becomes numb. The area is then gradually cooled. Treatment takes about an hour for each area.
With EMSculpt, a paddle-like applicator is applied to the area. The treatment takes about 30 minutes and will feel like a hard workout. You may have some moderate muscle discomfort and aches, as you would after an intense workout. Muscle contractions do not hurt but can be uncomfortable across the targeted muscle mass.
Note that both of these treatments are non-invasive. That means they do not require any downtime.
Results and Effectiveness
With a healthy lifestyle, you can expect both of these treatment options to work well at providing you with targeted improvement.
Results from CoolSculpting
It takes about 30 to 90 days to see the full improvement that CoolSculpting will provide. The results are permanent unless you gain additional fat cells. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with exercise and diet is critical.
Expected Results from EMSculpt
With EMSculpt, you can expect the results to become visible within a couple of weeks. However, you will need to keep up the treatments every 3 to 6 months to maintain that muscle mass.
Combining CoolSculpting and EMSculpt for Optimal Results
It may be possible for you to get even better results. To do that, consider both methods – fat removal through CoolScuplting and firmer muscles through the use of induced muscle contractions. Both treatments can provide excellent results.
Speak to our team about the benefits our clients have seen when combining both treatments.
Which Treatment is Right for You?
The best way to determine if EMSculpt vs. CoolSculpting is right for you is to set up a consultation with Dr. Sapra’s team at ICLS. With their experience, they can offer clear recommendations based on what may be best for you, including for residential fat reduction after a significant reduction in your body mass index or the use of muscle-building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which treatment is more effective for weight loss?
Neither treatment is designed for weight loss; they focus on body contouring.
How many sessions are needed for noticeable results?
- CoolSculpting: 1-2 sessions per area; results appear within months.
- EMSculpt: 4+ sessions for optimal muscle toning.
Is there any pain or discomfort during the procedures?
- CoolSculpting: A cold sensation that fades quickly. Some sensitivity to the treatment area post-treatment can occur for a few days.
- EMSculpt: Intense residual fat reduction, but no pain.
How long do the results last?
- CoolSculpting: Permanent fat cell reduction if weight is maintained.
- EMSculpt: Requires periodic maintenance treatments to sustain muscle tone.
Can I combine both treatments?
Yes! Many patients benefit from using CoolSculpting for fat reduction and EMSculpt for muscle definition.
Are these treatments safe?
Both are FDA and Health Canada-approved with extensive safety records.
Book a Consultation at ICLS
When it comes to using innovative solutions, like electromagnetic energy and gradual fat reduction with fat freezing technology, ICLS is at the forefront of the industry. Our extensive experience in nonsurgical body contouring creates an impressive result tailored to your specific needs.
Contact us today to book a consultation to discuss how well CoolSculpting or EMSculpt can work for you or if a combined procedure could offer optimal results.