A Slimming Solution

Non-Invasive Fat Reduction

By Loretta McCollum

You’re up before dawn each day to stumble out the door and stagger into the gym. Your eating habits are cleaner than an operating room. You do everything right, but your love handles linger and your muffin top won’t melt. Consider a non-invasive procedure to help you slim down. Today’s procedures utilize heat, cold, ultrasonic waves, and lasers, providing body contouring with little or no downtime.

Non-invasive fat reduction treatments are typically designed for those whose body type ranges from slightly to moderately overweight. There are no major health risks or significant side effects associated with these procedures, but check with your doctor before undergoing any treatment. Results are usually long-term, and there is very little discomfort.

One option is TightSculpting, which addresses fat deposits all over the body. TightSculpting uses a dual-wavelength laser to sculpt and tighten. The first laser heats the fat cells, stimulating metabolism. A second laser heats the surface tissue, prompting new collagen production that improves skin elasticity. Treatments take 30 minutes, and most patients undergo three to six sessions for optimum results. Treated skin may be slightly red for a few days, but no downtime is required. Fat cells that have been destroyed will not return.

TruSculpt 3D also employs heat to destroy fat cells. This technique uses radiofrequency instead of lasers to heat the tissue. Studies have shown that some individuals experienced up to a 24 percent fat loss in just one treatment. It may be a particularly good option for areas with loose skin. Drink plenty of fluids for optimal results.

Thermage is a skin-tightening treatment that also uses radiofrequency to heat tissue. It can be used on most areas where there is loose skin, even on the eyelids. No more looking lopsided, with one eyelid drooping a little more than the other. Tighten up that skin with a single treatment of Thermage, and your eyelids will be symmetrical for 12 to 24 months.

EMSCULPT is the first technique to employ electromagnetic energy to tone muscle. The electromagnetic waves cause muscles to contract up to 20,000 times per minute, encouraging muscle growth and fat loss. After four 30-minute treatments, patients may gain an average of 16 percent muscle mass and experience a 19 percent reduction in their waistline. It’s like a workout without the workout! Results can be permanent if exercise and proper diet are maintained. EMSCULPT is best for individuals who are close to their ideal weight but want