No matter how good our diet is and how strict our exercise routine, most of us have trouble getting rid of the last remnants of stubborn body fat. That’s right – it’s not something you have to struggle with alone!
In fact, there are multiple non-invasive aesthetic options for body contouring, which can even give your skin a rejuvenating boost at the same time. Today, let’s look at two of the most popular choices, CoolSculpting and Morpheus8 in Calgary, so you’ll know which one is right for your body and goals.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a non-surgical treatment that specifically targets stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to traditional diet and exercise efforts.
This FDA-approved procedure uses a technique called cryolipolysis to freeze and eliminate fat cells, without causing harm to the surrounding tissues. It works by subjecting the targeted fat cells to precisely controlled cooling, causing them to crystallize and undergo a natural breakdown process, known as apoptosis. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these treated fat cells, resulting in a gradual reduction of fat in the treated area.
The CoolSculpting Procedure
During treatment, a specialized applicator is placed on the target area, delivering controlled cooling to the underlying fat layers. Sensations of cold and a gentle pulling or tugging as the applicator draws in the fatty tissue are not uncommon.
The procedure typically takes about one hour per treated area, with many patients claiming it to be relatively comfortable. Some even read, relax, or take a nap during the session.
One of the advantages of CoolSculpting is that there is no downtime involved. After the treatment, you can immediately return to your normal daily activities, though some temporary side effects such as redness, bruising, numbness, or mild swelling may occur. These usually resolve on their own within a few days to weeks.
One thing to keep in mind: it may not look like much has been done immediately after the session. Over the next few weeks and months, though, you’ll notice a gradual reduction in fat and an improved contour in the treated area.
What is Morpheus8?
Morpheus8 is an innovative treatment that combines two highly effective techniques, microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) energy, to address both skin laxity (looseness) and fat reduction.
It’s a versatile procedure that can be applied to various areas, including the face, neck, abdomen, thighs, and more. Morpheus8 is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking more than just fat reduction, as it effectively targets multiple concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and loose or sagging skin.
Dr. Ashley says, “This device is excellent for people with fat and skin laxity, where you’re not simply trying to pull loose skin tighter – you’re actually trying to remodel the fat and then tighten the skin. This device does both.”
How Morpheus8 Works
As with all Bardöt services, the first step is a consultation to make sure you’re a good candidate for the treatment. If so, a multipurpose device with different attachments and tiny, ultrafine microneedles is used to deliver controlled RF energy into the deeper layers of the skin. For example, the FaceTite attachment is used to define the jawline and tighten facial skin; the BodyTite is used for the belly, legs, back of arms, and so on.
The microneedles create tiny channels, allowing the RF energy to penetrate the skin and stimulate collagen production. This process promotes skin tightening, improved texture, and a better overall appearance. In addition to its skin rejuvenating effects, Morpheus8 also targets and reduces stubborn fat cells in the treated area, helping to sculpt and contour the body.
To ensure your comfort during the procedure, a topical anaesthetic is applied to the treatment area beforehand. While you may experience some redness, swelling, or mild discomfort immediately afterward, these effects are temporary and typically subside within a few days. Then, as collagen production increases, you’ll see continued improvements in skin texture, laxity, and overall appearance, with the full benefits appearing a few weeks to months later.
How Many Treatments Does Morpheus8 Take?
This is a hard question to answer. Here's what Dr. Ashley has to say:
“The production of collagen, elastin, and fibrin in our bodies can vary significantly, because factors such as age, hormonal changes, and overall health impact collagen production. Individuals under 40, without menopause, and in good health may see desired outcomes in 1-3 sessions, but collagen production declines by about 50% at age 40 and even further during menopause. It’s impossible to state the exact number of treatments needed. On average, patients have check-in sessions once a year and may require repeat treatments every 1-2 years to maintain results.”
When to Use Morpheus8 vs. CoolSculpting
Choosing between these two treatments depends on your specific goals and situation.
When to Use CoolSculpting
If you have larger pockets of fat that require multiple treatment sessions, CoolSculpting is likely the better choice. It’s particularly effective for areas such as the abdomen, obliques, thighs, jawline, and chin. It helps reduce the appearance of these fatty pockets, but it doesn’t offer much for the skin.
People with advanced skin laxity should avoid CoolSculpting, as it primarily focuses on fat reduction and likely won’t give you the results you’re looking for.
When to Use Morpheus8
On the other hand, if you start noticing skin laxity and want to address both minor fat reduction and soft tissue/collagen stimulation, Morpheus8 is a great option. The combination of microneedling and RF energy lifts and works on both the skin and fat in the treated area, effectively targeting fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and sagging skin. Because of this, Morpheus8 is often used on the face, chest, arms and legs, abdomen, and buttocks, where both skin laxity and fat reduction are desired. (You can see a full list of approved treatments in the
FAQs section of our Morpheus8 page.)
Who is a Good Candidate for Non-Invasive Fat Reduction Treatments?
Non-invasive fat reduction treatments such as Morpheus8 and CoolSculpting are ideal for individuals who:
• Have subcutaneous fat and desire skin tightening and/or lifting in the treated area.
• Are noticing the onset of skin laxity in the treatment area.
• Seek body contouring and tightening, rather than weight loss.
• Have stubborn fat cells that seem frustratingly resistant to diet and exercise.
• Don’t require significant skin tightening or weight loss, but simply want fat cell reduction and improved body contours.
• Don’t have any metal implants or recent surgeries in the treatment area.
• Do not have any active infections in the treatment area.
Morpheus8 vs. CoolSculpting: Which is Best?
Determining which treatment is best for you depends on your specific goals and individual circumstances, and neither Morpheus8 nor CoolSculpting is “better” than the other.
To make an informed decision, we recommend booking a consultation with the experienced team at Bardöt Beauty. During this initial session, we’ll evaluate your needs, confirm your medical history, and chat about your desired results. We don’t offer CoolSculpting at the clinic, but if you are a good candidate for Morpheus8, we can proceed on that path using a schedule that works for your plans and budget.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified medical professional for personalized recommendations and to determine if Morpheus8, CoolSculpting, or any other treatment is suitable for your specific needs.
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