Summer is here and most of us don’t feel like we’re ‘swim ready’. In fact, “excess weight in one body part” was listed as the #1 most bothersome cosmetic problem in a recent national survey conducted by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Over 60% of respondents said they were not satisfied with their body size or shape. While diet and exercise are tried and true methods of losing weight and gaining muscle, there are numerous devices available in 2024 to help you tone your body as well. Here is the quick review of Dr. Rohrer on body contouring and muscle toning treatments.
Effective fat reduction: CoolSculpting
SkinCare Physicians conducted some of the first studies on Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting) and have continuously contributed to its advancement. This device uses handpieces that freeze small areas of fat and kill it permanently. CoolSculpting works best on well-defined local areas, such as the abdomen or love handles, but can be used on all kinds of areas, including the chin. Studies have shown reliable fat reduction of 40 – 56 cubic centimeters (about the size of a quarter of butter) after each treatment. Another great aspect of CoolSculpting is that there is no downtime or recovery time after the treatment. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately.
Other fat reduction technologies
SkinCare Physicians also has a variety of other devices that destroy fat by heating it to a critical temperature instead of freezing it. These devices include high-frequency ultrasound (eg, Liposonix, UltraShape), radiofrequency (eg, truSculpt), and laser technologies (eg, SculpSure). Additionally, injections of deoxycholic acid (Kybella) have been used to remove small areas of fat. While originally used under the chin for submental fat, Kybella can also be used on a variety of other areas, including the legs.
Rapid muscle toning: truFlex
Plus, there are now devices that can actually build muscle in just four treatments. Areas such as the abdomen, buttocks and legs have shown a significant increase in muscle size and function. SkinCare Physicians conducted a study on one of these devices, the truFlex, showing that it not only increased muscle mass, but more importantly increased strength. Patients increased the time they could hold a plank by nearly 50% and the time they could hold a single leg wall by over 100%. We have also anecdotally seen many of our patients improve their balance and posture after a few treatments to the point of even relieving back pain. truFlex is based on multidirectional muscle stimulation using electrical stimuli. This completely non-invasive treatment takes about an hour to complete and requires a series of weekly treatments to begin. Once the desired level of muscle conditioning is achieved, results can be maintained with treatments at monthly intervals or more.
Our doctors can create a personalized body contouring and muscle toning plan to get you beach ready in no time. Book your consultation to find out if you are a good candidate for any of these body treatments.
