EMSCULPT Neo is an advanced, noninvasive body contouring technology that simultaneously reduces fat and builds muscle using high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy combined with synchronized radiofrequency (RF). At Cosmetic Injectables Center Medspa in Sherman Oaks, all EMSCULPT Neo treatments are performed by certified experts under direct physician supervision.
How EMSCULPT Neo Works
Dual Technology: HIFEM + Synchronized RF
EMSCULPT Neo delivers two synergistic energies:
- HIFEM (High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic): Induces thousands of supramaximal muscle contractions, stimulating muscle hypertrophy and hyperplasia.
- Radiofrequency (RF): Heats subcutaneous fat, raising tissue temperature to trigger apoptosis (fat cell death) and promote skin tightening.
This dual-action approach sets EMSCULPT Neo apart from earlier electromagnetic-only devices and most other noninvasive body contouring technologies. Learn more about EMSCULPT Neo at our practice.
FDA Clearance and Safety
EMSCULPT Neo is FDA-cleared for noninvasive lipolysis (fat reduction), improvement of abdominal tone, strengthening and firming of the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and arms. It is also cleared for use in patients with a BMI up to 35. No anesthesia, surgery, or downtime is required. Adverse events are rare; most patients experience only mild, temporary muscle soreness.
Latest Clinical Evidence: What the Research Shows
Postpartum Abdominal Treatment Study (2025)
A 2025 clinical study evaluated EMSCULPT Neo combined with targeted pressure energy and RF in postpartum women (ages 32–41, BMI ~21.6). After four sessions, participants experienced:
- Average abdominal circumference reduction: Up to 4.69 cm at 12 months
- Clinician-assessed improvements: Stretch marks (1.6 points), skin laxity (1.8 points), muscle toning (1.9 points), overall slimming (1.9 points) on validated scales
- Safety: No adverse events reported
These results support EMSCULPT Neo as a safe, effective option for postpartum body contouring, diastasis recti recovery, and skin laxity improvement. Read the full 2025 study here.
Systematic Review of Body Contouring with EMSCULPT Neo (2025)
A 2025 systematic review analyzed seven imaging-based studies (MRI, ultrasound) on EMSCULPT Neo for the abdomen, thighs, flanks, and arms:
- Average fat thickness reduction: 8.0 mm
- Average muscle thickness increase: 5.5 mm after four 30-minute sessions
- Safety: No serious adverse events; high patient satisfaction
The review notes that while EMSCULPT Neo is safe and effective, the clinical significance of these changes should be interpreted within the context of imaging measurement error. Liposuction remains the gold standard for maximal fat removal, but EMSCULPT Neo offers a non-surgical, no-downtime alternative with proven results. Full 2025 review here.
Muscle Function and Atrophy Improvement Study (2025)
A 2025 sham-controlled trial examined EMSCULPT Neo’s effects on lower extremity muscle atrophy (n=32, ages 32–83, BMI ~27):
- Muscle strength gains: Quadriceps (+32.1%), hamstrings (+30.6%)—threefold greater than sham
- Patient-reported outcomes: 95% reported improved comfort in daily activities, 90% noted muscle re-education at 1 month
- Case example: A 73-year-old regained 30.7% strength post-surgery, resuming golf
This study highlights EMSCULPT Neo’s potential for functional muscle rehabilitation beyond cosmetic applications. Access the 2025 study PDF.
Lateral Abdomen (“Love Handles”) Contouring Study (2024)
A 2024 prospective study of 25 patients assessed EMSCULPT Neo for lateral abdomen sculpting:
- Subcutaneous fat reduction: 30% average (MRI)
- Muscle volume increase: 25% average
- Patient satisfaction: 4.8/5
- Side effects: None reported
Results peaked at three months, demonstrating the technology’s efficacy for targeted waistline contouring. Read the 2024 article.
Systematic Review of HIFEM with/without RF (2023–2024)
A 2023–2024 review of 14 studies (including EMSCULPT Neo) found:
- Fat reduction: ~5.5 mm (Neo-specific arms)
- Muscle gain: ~2.2 mm
- Abdominal profile improvement: 4.8 mm in sham-controlled study
- Safety: No complications reported
The review notes modest effect sizes and potential study bias, but consistent patient satisfaction and safety. RF addition offers small incremental benefits over HIFEM alone. Full review here.
EMSCULPT Neo vs. Other Body Contouring Treatments
Treatment | Mechanism | Fat Reduction | Muscle Building | Skin Tightening | Invasiveness | Downtime | FDA-Cleared Areas |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EMSCULPT Neo | HIFEM + RF | Yes | Yes | Mild | Noninvasive | None | Abdomen, buttocks, arms, thighs |
CoolSculpting | Cryolipolysis (cold) | Yes | No | No | Noninvasive | None | Abdomen, flanks, thighs, chin, etc. |
SculpSure | Laser lipolysis | Yes | No | No | Noninvasive | None | Abdomen, flanks, thighs, chin |
truSculpt | RF (monopolar) | Yes | No | Mild | Noninvasive | None | Abdomen, flanks, thighs, chin |
Liposuction | Surgical aspiration | Yes (maximal) | No | No | Surgical | Yes | Most body areas |
Key Points:
- Only EMSCULPT Neo combines clinically proven fat reduction and muscle building in a single session.
- CoolSculpting, SculpSure, and truSculpt focus solely on fat reduction; none induce muscle hypertrophy.
- Liposuction provides the greatest fat removal but is invasive, requires anesthesia, and involves downtime and surgical risks.
- EMSCULPT Neo is ideal for patients seeking noninvasive, no-downtime improvements in muscle tone and moderate fat reduction.
Ideal Candidates and Indications
EMSCULPT Neo is suitable for:
- Individuals seeking moderate fat reduction and muscle toning without surgery
- Postpartum women addressing abdominal laxity or diastasis recti
- Patients with mild to moderate skin laxity
- Adults recovering from muscle atrophy due to injury, surgery, or inactivity (as supported by 2025 research)
- BMI up to 35 (per FDA clearance)
Contraindications: Patients with implanted electronic devices (e.g., pacemakers), metal implants near treatment areas, or certain medical conditions may not be candidates. An in-person consultation is required for medical clearance.
What to Expect: Treatment Process and Recovery
- Session duration: Approximately 30 minutes per area
- Number of sessions: Typically 4, spaced 1 week apart
- Sensation: Intense muscle contractions with mild warmth; no anesthesia required
- Recovery: No downtime; normal activities can be resumed immediately
- Results: Improvements typically visible within weeks, peaking at 2–3 months; maintenance sessions may be recommended
Why Choose Cosmetic Injectables Center Medspa?
- Physician-led care: All EMSCULPT Neo treatments are performed by certified Master Injectors under the full-time supervision of Dr. Sherly Soleiman, MD, a board-certified physician with over 25 years of experience in medical aesthetics.
- Expertise: Ranked in Allergan’s Top 1% nationally, our team is committed to evidence-based, natural-looking outcomes.
- Patient-first philosophy: Every treatment plan is tailored to individual goals, anatomy, and safety requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does EMSCULPT Neo differ from traditional EMSCULPT?
EMSCULPT Neo adds synchronized radiofrequency (RF) to HIFEM, enhancing fat reduction and skin tightening compared to HIFEM alone.
Is EMSCULPT Neo safe?
Yes. Multiple studies (2023–2025) report no serious adverse events. Mild, temporary muscle soreness is the most common side effect. Individual risk assessment is required.
Who is a good candidate for EMSCULPT Neo?
Healthy adults seeking noninvasive fat reduction and muscle toning, including postpartum women and those with mild muscle atrophy, are ideal candidates. BMI should be ≤35.
How soon will I see results?
Most patients notice improvements within a few weeks, with maximal results at 2–3 months post-treatment.
How long do results last?
Results can be long-lasting with a healthy lifestyle. Maintenance sessions may be recommended.
Can EMSCULPT Neo treat diastasis recti?
Yes. Clinical studies (2025) support its efficacy for postpartum abdominal separation and muscle laxity.
How does EMSCULPT Neo compare to CoolSculpting or SculpSure?
EMSCULPT Neo reduces fat and builds muscle, while CoolSculpting and SculpSure only reduce fat. Choice depends on individual goals and anatomy.
Is there any downtime after treatment?
No. Patients may resume normal activities immediately.
Are treatments painful?
Most patients describe the sensation as intense muscle contractions with mild warmth, but not painful.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Contact Cosmetic Injectables Center Medspa in Sherman Oaks for a complimentary consultation with a certified Master Injector. Consultations with Dr. Soleiman are available for a fee, waived if a procedure is performed.
References:
- Postpartum Abdominal Treatment Study (2025)
- Systematic Review of Body Contouring with EMSCULPT Neo (2025)
- Muscle Function and Atrophy Improvement Study (2025)
- Lateral Abdomen Contouring Study (2024)
- Systematic Review of HIFEM with/without RF (2023–2024)
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our EMSCULPT Neo procedure page.