Nonsurgical Fat Reduction

Latest update: May 09, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jennifer Trent MD, FAAD

Details

Non-surgical fat removal can help eliminate stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. These treatments do not promote weight loss or target large areas of fat accumulation. Ideal candidates should be at their goal weight and normal BMI.

Compared to surgical procedures, these non-invasive treatments require no downtime or  anesthetic. They have minimal side effects, and the results can be long-lasting if the patient maintains their weight. They usually require several sessions to achieve optimal results. 

Non-invasive fat removal is usually performed under the supervision of a doctor. Results  become gradually noticeable over a few months. Once a treatment course is completed, results are permanent and long-lasting.

There are several non-invasive fat removal devices on the market. They include fat freezing, laser, ultrasound, mesotherapy, or light therapy.

Cryolipolysis is a fat-freezing treatment. It cools the fat cells to sub-zero temperatures to destroy them without harming the skin's surface. Practitioners place the device on the targeted area, which breaks up the cells to decrease the fat pockets by 25%.

SculpSure is a laser treatment that uses thermal energy to break apart fat cells. The laser emits heat into the skin without harming the skin's surface. It cools the skin between each pulse to ensure a safe procedure. 

Patients will notice visible results after six weeks. 

Kybella uses a deoxycholic acid solution to destroy fat cells. It is often used to treat fat under the chin or jowls. Patients need about 2-4 sessions for optimal results.

Ultrasound fat reduction uses ultrasound technology to break up fat cells, which are then eliminated from the body by the lymphatic system. The procedure is safe and does not cause trauma to the surrounding tissue. It may require 1-3 sessions to achieve your goals.

Red Light Therapy, also known as photonic lipolysis, uses light energy to puncture fat cells and drain them to reduce the size of fat pockets. The fluid is then removed from the body naturally. Results can be seen immediately and will continue to improve over time.
Anesthesia
n/a
Operation Time
depends on treatment
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
depends on treatment
Recovery Period
depends on treatment
Invasiveness
no

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