8 Popular Non-Invasive Fat Removal Procedures to Consider

You've dieted. You've exercised. You've lost weight. You've toned up, but you still have those stubborn bulges that just won't go away. If you're ready to take the final steps to achieve the body you desire, it might be time to consider a non-invasive fat-removal procedure.

Below, we outline eight of the most popular non-invasive fat-reduction methods approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Most take less than two hours per treatment, requiring little to no downtime or incisions. Keep in mind that these non-surgical fat-removal procedures can permanently remove fat cells, but preserving long-lasting results requires following a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a stable weight.

1. Fat Freezing

How fat freezing works

Fat freezing treatments (cryolipolysis), such as CoolSculpting®, place a cupped device on the skin using extreme cold to freeze unwanted fat cells in specific body areas. As the frozen fat cells die, they are naturally eliminated and permanently removed by the body.

Fat freezing is best for body areas where patients want to reduce the size of a fat bulge, such as:

• Abdomen
• Hips
• Inner and outer thighs
• Back
• Upper arms

Fat freezing results

After one to two treatments, results are typically noticeable within one month, and final results after about three months.

2. Laser Fat Removal

How laser fat removal works

Laser fat removal treatments, such as SculpSure®, use controlled heat to break down and permanently destroy unwanted fat cells.

• Laser fat removal works best for the following body areas:
• Stomach
• Love handles
• Thighs

Laser fat removal results

Often, only one treatment is needed, with visible results appearing in six weeks and permanent results in 12 weeks.

3. Radiofrequency Treatments

How radiofrequency treatment works

Radiofrequency treatments and technology, such as Vanquish, use magnetic waves to heat and melt away fat cells without actually touching the skin. This method can treat larger body parts compared to other non-invasive options.

Radiofrequency results

Four to 10 sessions spaced one week apart may be needed to achieve desired results, with permanent results visible two months after the final treatment.

4. Ultrasound Fat Reduction Therapy

How ultrasound fat reduction therapy works

Ultrasound therapy and technology, such as UltraShape and Liposonix, use focused sonic waves to break down fat cell walls in the abdominal area gradually. The treatment doesn't impact the surrounding tissue, so there's no bruising or swelling following the procedure.

Ultrasound fat reduction therapy results

Three treatments spaced two weeks apart generally deliver the best results. Initial results are visible in about two weeks, with final results visible within four months.

5. Red Light Therapy

How red-light therapy works

Red light therapy for weight loss, such as UltraSlim®, delivers wavelengths of light that shrink selected fat cells in the abdomen, hips, and thighs while tightening and smoothing skin.

Red light therapy results

Most patients choose three or more treatments to achieve their goals. Results may appear within a few hours after treatment and continue to improve as the body metabolizes the fat.

6. Laser Lipolysis (Non-surgical Lipo)

How laser liposuction works

Non-surgical lipo, much like traditional liposuction, removes small fat deposits from your body. However, SmartLipo® uses laser heat combined with small fiber optic cables under the skin to the target area to break down the fat cells for your body to reabsorb. Laser lipo is not entirely non-invasive but requires minimal incisions and suction or massage to help remove the fat. It also has a lower risk of ending up with loose skin afterward compared to traditional liposuction.

Laser liposuction results

Laser lipo takes about 25 minutes on each targeted area. It takes about six weeks to see the full results with minimal bruising and discomfort.

7. ThermaLipo

How ThermaLipo works

ThermaLipo combines laser liposuction and radiofrequency to help reduce cellulite and create a smooth, contoured appearance. Because it uses laser liposuction, the procedure is not entirely non-invasive, but a local anesthetic will help you remain comfortable. ThermaLipo is great for areas of the body that you'd like to see both fat removal and skin tightening, especially places like:

• Hips
• Waist
• Abdomen
• Thighs
• Face

ThermaLipo results

One session that takes about an hour to an hour and a half will get you closer to the smooth and contoured body you want. You'll see results within a day or two, but it can take a few weeks to see the full effects of the procedure.

8. Emsculpt Neo

How Emsculpt Neo Works

Emsculpt Neo combines muscle stimulation and radiofrequency to melt away fat while also toning muscle and tightening skin. Completely non-invasive, Emsculpt NEO is the only non-invasive fat removal option that can treat all three (fat, muscle, and skin) simultaneously.

Emsculpt Neo Results

Each session takes about 30 minutes, and you'll likely need to have about 6 sessions spread out over 6 weeks.

Should You Consider Non-Invasive Fat Removal?

To determine if you're a good candidate for a non-invasive fat removal procedure or treatment, start by consulting with a qualified cosmetic surgeon who is experienced in performing these procedures. While the right treatment depends on your desired results and timeframe, those close to their ideal weight are most likely to benefit from the results of non-surgical fat removal procedures.

Patients who are significantly overweight may want to consider a more invasive cosmetic procedure to achieve their desired results, such as liposuction or weight loss surgery.

CareCredit Credit Card Financing for Non-Invasive Fat Removal Procedures

When getting non-invasive fat removal procedures or another cosmetic procedure, the CareCredit credit card can help you pay for costs not covered by insurance.* Apply today and use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic specialist near you that accepts CareCredit. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go, and easily access the Well U hub for more great articles, podcasts, and videos.