Emerged from quarantine with a little extra? If you're like many us, the lack of exercise along with stress and being out of our normal routine has added a few inches. But don't worry, thanks to advancing technology, there are safe and effective non-surgical option

Advanced body shaping can give you a sculpted appearance by removing fat and changing the shape and contour of your body which cannot be accomplished by weight loss alone.

Non-invasive, energy-based devices have emerged as a safe and effective alternative to surgical procedures such as liposuction. There are three common methods to treat stubborn fat:

1. Cryolipolysis (fat freezing),

2. Heat energy

3. Ultrasound.

UltraShape® Power

UltraShape® Power uses advanced ultrasound technology to destroy the fat cell. The handpiece sends out ultrasonic waves which penetrate the wall of the fat cell, causing it to burst. There is no heat or cooling like other forms of fat reduction. As a result, treatments are comfortable. UltraShape® can be performed on visible fat bulges on the thighs, belly, flanks, bra line, upper arm and under the buttocks.

What to expect during treatment. After reviewing your body shaping goals with your provider and the treatment area is determined, measurements and photographs are taken of the area. A special belt is applied to the treatment area. You will then lie comfortably on the treatment table while a handpiece gently glides over the treatment area delivering ultrasound waves. A specialized monitor is perched above the treatment zone monitoring in real-time the depth of fat to deliver the exact amount of ultrasound waves needed to effectively destroy fat cells in that particular area. There is no pain or discomfort. Treatments take approximately 30-45 minutes depending upon the treatment. There is no visible signs of treatment and no side effects like numbness, redness, bruising or lumps.

When do you see results. You can start to see results as early as two weeks after the first treatment but best results will be seen two weeks after your third treatment.

How much does it cost. Price will vary based on location. Averaging anywhere from $700-$1500 per treatment. Three treatments are required at two week intervals.

For more information, check out https://candelamedical.com/na/patient/product/ultrashape

Coolsculpting®

Coolscuplting® probably has the greatest name recognition when it comes to "fat freezing". This form of cryolpolysis is FDA cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges under the chin, jawline, thighs, belly, flanks, bra line, upper arm and under the buttocks. Fat cells are cooled to very low temperatures through a device that is applied to your skin. Low temperature and suction causes injury to the fat cells. This triggers your body's immune system which through a series of steps, removes the destroyed fat cells.

What to expect during treatment. After discussing your goals, the treatment area will be assessed and marked. A clear gel pad will be applied to your skin. This acts as a barrier between your skin and the cooling device. You'll feel a sucking sensation initially as the applicator gains contact with the skin and gel pad. During the procedure you may experience sensations of pulling, tugging, mild pinching, intense cold, tingling, stinging, aching, and cramping. These sensations subside as the area becomes numb. Treatment cycles take about 35-45 minutes. After each cycle, the device is removed and the provider will briefly massage the treatment area to help break up the fat deposits. If treating larger areas, it is possible to have multiple devices cycling at one time.

Following the procedure, typical side effects include temporary redness, swelling, blanching, and bruising. Individuals may also experience firmness, tingling, stinging, tenderness, cramping, aching, itching, or skin sensitivity. A sensation of fullness in the back of the throat has been reported in some cases after under the chin and jawline area are treated. Rare side effects may also occur which include numbness, visible enlargement in the treated area and small pockets of hardened fat cells that the body did not eliminate properly.

When do you see results. It can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 3 months to see results and patient may continue to see results for up to 6 months. An average of two treatments is usually necessary to achieve desired goals. It is recommend to space treatments four or more weeks apart.

How much does it cost. Cost is based on the number of cycles which is defined by the size of the applicator. The larger the area, the more applicators are needed and thus the more cycles are performed. For instance, a lower abdomen would require two applicators and thus two cycles. Average starting prices are between $2,000 and $4,000 per cycle. Therefore, on average a lower abdomen costs $4,000 to $8,000 per session.

For more information, check out https://www.coolsculpting.com/

WarmSculpting™ with Sculpsure®

Using thermal (heat) energy to destroy fat has become an alternative to fat freezing. WarmSculpting™ with Sculpsure® uses a light-based technology to destroy fat cells. Heat energy is delivered via a laser beam which specifically targets the lining of the fat cell, causing it to heat up, weaken and burst. Over the course of the next three months, the fat cells are eliminated by your body's lymphatic system. Areas that can be treated include: belly, love handles, back, inner and outer thighs and under the chin.

What to expect during treatment. Prior to treatment, your provider will discuss your area(s) of concern and develop an individualized plan. A special belt is placed around the treatment area which contains the applicators that deliver the laser beam. You will feel a cool (not freezing) sensation as the machine cools the skin before the laser beam pulses. Throughout the treatment you will feel a deep warming sensation as the laser heats and cools. Each area takes 25 minutes to treat. The size of the treatment area is limited by the size of the belt. Therefore, an abdomen will take a minimum of two treatment areas so roughly 50 minutes to 1 hour. Flanks are also two separate treatment areas. After treatment you can have redness, tenderness or swelling in the treatment area which is temporary. There are no special after care instructions and you can return to your normal activities immediately.

When do you see results. Results can be seen as early as six weeks with most people seeing optimal results by twelve weeks. For most individuals a series of treatments is necessary to achieve desired results.

How much does it cost. Cost is based on area which is defined by the size of the belt. Each area averages $1,500 to $1,800. For example, if you want your flanks treated, that's at least 2 areas so you are looking at $3,000 to $3,600 per treatment.

For more information, check out https://www.sculpsure.com/