CoolSculpting vs. Emsculpt Neo vs. LipoMelt: Choosing the Right Body Contouring Treatment

Many are seeking non-invasive ways to sculpt their bodies and address those stubborn pockets of fat that seem resistant to diet and exercise. This article explores three popular treatments: CoolSculpting, Emsculpt Neo, and LipoMelt. We’ll examine each treatment’s effectiveness, safety, cost, and ideal candidates to help you make an informed decision about the best body contouring treatment for you.

Before we dive in, here are the official websites for each treatment:

• CoolSculpting: https://www.allerganaesthetics.com/brands/coolsculpting 
• Emsculpt Neo: https://bodybybtl.com/ 
• LipoMelt: https://www.columbiagorgelipomelt.com/ 

CoolSculpting

It also known as cryolipolysis, is a non-surgical fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat1. This FDA-cleared procedure was developed by Harvard scientists and approved in 2010. It targets and freezes fat cells, which your body then naturally processes and eliminates over time. For those seeking a non-invasive alternative to liposuction, CoolSculpting can be an excellent option.

How CoolSculpting Works

During a CoolSculpting session, a gel pad and applicator are applied to the targeted area. The applicator delivers precise cooling to the fat cells beneath the skin, causing them to crystallize (freeze) and die. These crystallized fat cells are then naturally broken down and eliminated by your body’s lymphatic system over time, resulting in a reduction of fat in the treated area4.

Areas Treated with CoolSculpting

It can be used on various areas of the body, including:

• Submental (under the chin) and submandibular (under the jawline) areas
• Thighs, abdomen, and flanks
• Bra fat, back fat, and underneath the buttocks (banana roll)
• Upper arms

Effectiveness of CoolSculpting

It is a clinically proven treatment with a high patient satisfaction rate. Studies have shown that it can reduce subcutaneous fat at the treatment site by up to 25% after just one treatment, with improvements seen in 86% of treated subjects7. Moreover, the patient satisfaction rate is high, at 73%.

Side Effects of CoolSculpting

While generally safe, it may cause some temporary side effects, such as:

• Redness, swelling, and bruising
• Tingling, stinging, or aching
• Numbness in the treated area

These side effects typically subside within a few days to weeks. In rare cases, CoolSculpting can result in uneven fat reduction, divots in the skin, and severe nerve pain 9. Another rare side effect is paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where the fat cells in the treated area enlarge instead of dying.

Cost of CoolSculpting

The cost of CoolSculpting varies based on several factors, including the size and number of areas being treated, the number of sessions required, and the provider’s experience. On average, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 per treatment area. The average cost for a treatment package is $3,200.

What People Are Saying About CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting boasts a high satisfaction rate among users, with many reporting noticeable improvements in their body shape and confidence. One patient shared, “I have two kids and they did a number on my body. I just kind of have areas that are stubborn and never go away. It is a great chance to get rid of those.”  

Another user raved about the treatment’s effectiveness, stating, “I have done cool sculpting at a Plastic Surgeons office in the past, and had extremely minimal results. After going to Skinney for just one session, my stomach pouch is GONE. Incredible result!”  These testimonials highlight the positive experiences many individuals have had with CoolSculpting.

Emsculpt Neo

Emsculpt Neo is a non-invasive body contouring treatment that takes a different approach. It combines radiofrequency heating and high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to simultaneously eliminate fat and build muscle. This dual-action technology makes Emsculpt Neo a comprehensive body contouring solution, offering a unique advantage over CoolSculpting by addressing both fat reduction and muscle toning.

How Emsculpt Neo Works

Emsculpt Neo utilizes HIFEM+ energy to induce supramaximal muscle contractions, which are far more intense than those achieved through voluntary exercise. These contractions force the muscles to adapt and grow stronger, leading to increased muscle mass and a more toned appearance15. At the same time, radiofrequency energy heats the subcutaneous fat to a temperature that causes the fat cells to break down and be naturally eliminated by the body.

Areas Treated with Emsculpt Neo

Emsculpt Neo can be used to treat a variety of body areas, including:

• Abdomen
• Buttocks
• Thighs
• Arms
• Calves

Effectiveness of Emsculpt Neo

Clinical studies have shown that Emsculpt Neo can increase muscle mass by up to 25% and decrease fat by up to 30%. In fact, one study indicated an average muscle mass increase of 16% and an average fat reduction of 19%. These results are comparable to those achieved with more invasive procedures like liposuction, but without the associated risks and downtime. Furthermore, with Emsculpt Neo, you’ll see results for 6 months or longer, and maintenance sessions may be required to sustain the results18. Beyond aesthetics, Emsculpt Neo can also enhance muscle strength and improve overall functionality in day-to-day activities.

Side Effects of Emsculpt Neo

Emsculpt Neo is generally safe and well-tolerated. Some common side effects include:

• Muscle soreness
• Temporary redness and swelling

These side effects are typically mild and resolve within a few days. There is a possibility of skin burns if the Emsculpt Neo device comes off the skin during radiofrequency use.

Cost of Emsculpt Neo

The cost of Emsculpt Neo can vary based on factors like location, provider, and the number of sessions needed. On average, each session costs between $750 and $1,000. Most patients require four sessions to achieve optimal results. The average EmSculpt NEO treatment costs $700 to $1,000.

What People Are Saying About Emsculpt Neo

Emsculpt Neo has garnered positive feedback from users who appreciate its ability to both reduce fat and build muscle. One patient shared, “My stomach was relatively flat but even after working out for the last 7 years consistently 4x a week I have never been able to get a 6 pack until now I have an 8 pack and it’s not just when I’m flexing in the right lighting like in the past.” 

Another user highlighted the treatment’s convenience, stating, “The Emsculpt procedure experience was painless, effortless and EASY! The EASE and comfort of laying down while your body is ‘sculpted’ is AMAZING!” These testimonials reflect the positive impact Emsculpt Neo has had on many individuals’ body shape and confidence.

LipoMelt

LipoMelt is a non-invasive body contouring treatment that utilizes low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to target fat. It is a relatively new technology compared to CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo.

How LipoMelt Works

LipoMelt employs low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to stimulate fat cells to release their contents. The laser energy safely penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the fat cells. This causes the fat cell membranes to temporarily change, allowing the fat to seep out. The released fat is then broken down into free fatty acids and glycerol, which enter the bloodstream and are either used as fuel or eliminated by the body.

Areas Treated with LipoMelt

LipoMelt can be used to treat various body areas, including:

• Waist, hips, and thighs
• Upper arms
• Face

Effectiveness of LipoMelt

While LipoMelt may offer some benefits, it’s important to note that the evidence supporting its efficacy for fat reduction is not as robust as that of CoolSculpting or Emsculpt Neo. Additionally, the results from LipoMelt are not permanent, as the fat cells can refill over time.

Side Effects of LipoMelt

LipoMelt is generally considered a safe treatment with minimal side effects. There are no risks or side effects involved in using LipoMelt.

Cost of LipoMelt

The cost of LipoMelt can vary depending on the provider and the number of sessions required. Some clinics offer packages that include multiple treatments. For example, one clinic offers a 12-session package for $173.

What People Are Saying About LipoMelt

LipoMelt has received positive feedback from individuals who have experienced noticeable inch loss and body contouring improvements. One patient shared, “I was shocked. The first time I did LipoMelt I lost 8 1/2 inches and can you imagine putting your clothes on and going ‘My God. What happened?'”  Another user highlighted the treatment’s non-invasive nature, stating, “I recommend LipoMelt to anyone who has this area of their body that they are embarrassed about or uncomfortable with – you want to get rid of it – LipoMelt’s the answer.”  These testimonials suggest that LipoMelt can be an effective option for those seeking a non-invasive body contouring solution.

Comparing the Three Treatments

 

Feature	CoolSculpting	Emsculpt Neo	LipoMelt
Mechanism	Controlled cooling to freeze fat cells	Radiofrequency heating and HIFEM+ energy to build muscle and reduce fat	Low-level laser therapy to stimulate fat release
Fat reduction	Up to 25%	Up to 30%	Less evidence, not permanent
Muscle building	No	Yes	No
Side effects	Redness, swelling, bruising, numbness, PAH (rare), uneven fat reduction, divots in the skin, and severe nerve pain	Muscle soreness, redness, swelling 20, skin burns (rare)	No risks or side effects
Cost	$2,000-$4,000 per treatment area, average package $3,200	$700-$1,000 per session	Varies, packages available
Downtime	Minimal	None	None
Treatment Time	35-60 minutes per area	30 minutes per area	20 minutes per session
Number of Sessions	Typically 1-2	Typically	Varies, often 6-20
Permanence of Results	Yes, fat cells are destroyed	Yes, fat cells are destroyed 18	No, fat cells can refill

Conclusion

CoolSculpting, Emsculpt Neo, and LipoMelt offer distinct approaches to non-invasive body contouring. CoolSculpting excels in targeted fat reduction with proven results and a high patient satisfaction rate. Emsculpt Neo provides a more comprehensive approach by combining fat reduction with muscle building, making it ideal for those seeking a more toned and sculpted physique. LipoMelt, while less invasive and with minimal side effects, has less robust evidence supporting its effectiveness for long-term fat reduction.

For those considering both fat reduction and muscle toning, combining CoolSculpting and Emsculpt Neo may yield optimal results9. For example, you could use CoolSculpting to first reduce fat in areas that cannot be treated with Emsculpt Neo, such as the chin or bra fat, and then use Emsculpt Neo to further sculpt and tone muscles in areas like the abdomen or buttocks.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs, goals, and budget. Consulting with a qualified provider is crucial to determine which treatment or combination of treatments will best help you achieve your desired body contouring outcomes.

Resources Cited

1. CoolSculpting® | Fat Freezing Technology – Allergan Aesthetics https://www.allerganaesthetics.com/brands/coolsculpting
2. BodybyBTL – Discover how people have been transformed https://bodybybtl.com/
3. Columbia Gorge LipoMelt: Lighting the Way to Wellness – Weight Loss https://www.columbiagorgelipomelt.com/
4. Coolsculpting vs Laser Lipo: The Ultimate Guide | Phoenix Liposuction https://phoenixliposuction.com/blog/coolsculpting-vs-laser-lipo-the-ultimate-guide/
5. Am I A Good Candidate for Coolsculpting? – About McGuiness Dermatology – Plano, TX https://mcguinessdermatology.com/am-i-a-good-candidate-for-coolsculpting/
6. CoolMonth is Back With Deals on CoolSculpting® Elite by Allergan Aesthetics – Jan 7, 2025 https://news.abbvie.com/2025-01-07-CoolMonth-is-Back-With-Deals-on-CoolSculpting-R-Elite-by-Allergan-Aesthetics
7. Cryolipolysis for noninvasive body contouring: clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction – PMC https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4079633/
8. CoolSculpting for Fat Loss: Risks, Side Effects – WebMD https://www.webmd.com/beauty/coolsculpting
9. EMSculpt Vs CoolSculpting: What is the Difference? | The Cosmetic Skin Clinic https://www.cosmeticskinclinic.com/blog/emsculpt-vs-coolsculpting/
10. CoolSculpting Cost: Total Price Range and Stomach, Arms, and Thighs – Healthline https://www.healthline.com/health/cool-sculpting-cost

11. Find a CoolSculpting Provider – Ceros http://view.ceros.com/allergan/find-a-provider-cs
12. Patient Reviews and Testimonials on CoolSculpting® https://www.coolsculpting.com/eliminate-stubborn-fat/see-results
13. CoolSculpting Reviews From Real SKINNEY Medspa Patients https://skinneymedspa.com/coolsculpting-reviews/
14. EMSCULPT NEO More Muscle Less Fat | Non-invasive – BTL Aesthetics https://btlaesthetics.com/en/for-providers/emsculpt-neo-providers
15. Is Emsculpt Better Than CoolSculpting? – Dallas Dermatology Partners https://www.dallasdermpartners.com/body-sculpting/is-emsculpt-better-than-coolsculpting/
16. EMSculpt NEO Minot, ND | Muscle Rehabilitation – Legacy Health Clinic https://www.legacyhealthclinic.org/emsculpt-neo/
17. Emsculpt Neo vs. Liposuction | Dallas Dermatology Partners https://www.dallasdermpartners.com/body-sculpting/emsculpt-neo-vs-liposuction/
18. Emsculpt Neo Vs Liposuction: Which Is Right For You? – Cosmetic Injectables Center https://cosmeticinjectables.com/blog/emsculpt-neo-vs-liposuction/
19. Patient Reviews and Testimonials of Emsculpt Neo – Skin Loft https://www.skinloft.com/patient-reviews-and-testimonials-of-emsculpt-neo/
20. Is Emsculpt Safe? Understanding Potential Side Effects – Schrader Plastic Surgery https://www.schraderplasticsurgery.com/blog/emsculpt-side-effects

21. What Are the Common Side Effects of Emsculpt Neo? – Skin Loft https://www.skinloft.com/what-are-the-common-side-effects-of-emsculpt-neo/
22. Emsculpt NEO Side Effects: Are There Any – ISAAC Luxe Clinic https://www.isaacluxe.co/emsculpt-neo-side-effects-are-there-any/
23. How Much Does Emsculpt Cost? – Ultra Body Sculpt https://ultrabodysculpt.com/emsculpt-cost-dmv/
24. How Much Does EmSculpt NEO® Cost? – Manhattan Aesthetics https://www.manhattan-aesthetics.com/blog/how-much-does-emsculpt-neo-cost/
25. Patient Reviews of EmSculpt – Read & Watch – Reflections Center https://www.reflectionscenter.com/emsculpt-reviews/
26. Sculpting Your Body: CoolSculpting vs. LipoMelt LED – Columbia Laser Skin Center https://columbialaserskincenter.com/sculpting-your-body/
27. LIPOMELT – Yarger Chiropractic & Acupuncture https://www.yargerchiropractic.com/lipomelt
28. Duncan Chiropractic Health Center – chiropractic & Functional Medicine in Fremont, NE :: Frequently Asked Questions https://www.duncanchiro.com/lipomelt/frequently-asked-questions.html
29. CoolSculpting vs Liposuction: Which is Better? – AriaMedTour https://ariamedtour.com/blogs/coolsculpting-vs-liposuction/
30. Duncan Chiropractic Health Center – chiropractic & Functional Medicine in Fremont, NE :: Prices and Packages https://www.duncanchiro.com/lipomelt/prices-and-packages.html