Are There Non-Surgical Weight Loss Procedures?

Weight loss surgery has been around for decades, achieving results considered previously impossible. But surgery often comes with a long list of risks (and an even longer recovery). In recent years, however, there’s been a surge of non-invasive weight loss innovations, giving you new options for shedding excess pounds without any excess stress. We’ve compiled a short list below of the most popular procedures currently winning fans.

Gastric Balloon

A gastric balloon is a great option for curbing your appetite, allowing weight loss to occur on a steady, natural timetable. Whether you opt for Obalon, Orbera or ReShape, the procedure is essentially the same: a small (deflated) balloon is either swallowed or inserted down the esophagus. Once settled, it expands in your stomach, which means you’ll be eating less and feeling fuller longer.

While this procedure is not within the scope of our practice, it is a viable method to lose weight without undergoing a surgical procedure. This technique is not without its risks and complications, so if considering gastric balloon, please consult with a board-certified physician or surgeon well trained in this technique.

Cryolipolysis

Known primarily as CoolSculpting, Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive way to destroy fat by freezing fat cells, effectively killing them. Your body will then eliminate the cells naturally – a process which generally takes 1-3 months. CoolSculpting eliminates approximately 25% excess body fat wherever it’s applied.

The procedure simply involves sitting and relaxing, as a targeted treatment head does all the work for you. Things obviously get chilly, but the sensation quickly dissipates, allowing you to take care of work, relax, watch tv – or simply take a nap – as the excess fat cells are frozen underneath. CoolSculpting often takes multiple sessions to achieve peak results.

Evolve – Trim

Evolve Trim is one of the newest procedures on the market, and has quickly become one of the most popular ways to reduce excess fat, non-surgically. It uses RF (radio frequency) power

Evolve can be used in areas like the abdomen, arms, hips, thighs, and waist. During treatment, your practitioner attaches a device to the treatment area. While you may experience a slight tingling, treatment is not painful. The procedure takes about 30 minutes and you can resume regular activities immediately afterward.

For optimal results, most patients need biweekly treatments for two weeks. You may need follow-up treatments every four months to maintain results. As with similar treatments, staying at a healthy weight also helps you maintain your new physique.

While Evolve is new, patients are already experiencing dramatic results after undergoing the procedure. They notice significant fat reduction

In Conclusion

The procedures mentioned above are collectively replacing surgery for more and more patients every day, as all offer less risks and less downtime than traditional options like tummy tucks. Not every procedure is right for everyone, so talk to your doctor before choosing. No matter which option you choose, you’ll be receiving a procedure that can help you feel great about your body — no scalpels required.