Get Summer-Ready: Non-Surgical Arm Fat Reduction Treatments

With summer coming in hot, many of us are trying to shed those extra inches — and fast. Whether we’ve gained a few post-covid pounds, are battling a slowing metabolism, facing genetics, or a host of other reasons, there’s one area in particular that can be extra challenging — arm fat. Even with a healthy diet and workout routine, eliminating arm fat can prove difficult. And, with how often our arms are exposed, it’s no wonder taut arms are top of mind. Fortunately, we’ve rounded up the best procedures to reduce arm fat so you can fret less about flab and focus on what matters—snagging that lounge chair. 

CoolSculpting 

CoolSculpting for the upper arms is a noninvasive fat reduction procedure that involves no anesthesia, needles, or incisions. It’s based on the principle of cooling subcutaneous fat (the layer of fat just under the skin) to the point that the fat cells are destroyed by the cooling process and absorbed by the body.

Procedure for CoolSculpting of the Arms

A Greenwich Medical Spa practitioner performs the procedure using a handheld applicator which looks similar to the nozzle of a vacuum cleaner. During the treatment, your practitioner applies a gel pad and applicator to the arms, one by one. The applicator delivers controlled cooling to the targeted fat. The device is moved over your skin while administering suction and cooling technology to the target area. The length of the treatment depends on which size applicator is being used. For upper arms, we usually use a petite applicator. Treatment times are typically 35 minutes. 

With CoolSculpting, there isn’t any downtime. Expect slight swelling, possible bruising, and tenderness to the area. During the treatment, that area will go numb which is normal. At your consultation, your practitioner will discuss how many treatments it will take to achieve your goal. 

Fast Facts About CoolSculpting

• CoolSculpting is best for patients who wish to reduce the size of a fat bulge with little reshaping. 
• Studies show that up to 25% fat reduction per treatment is typical.¹
• Treatments take 35 to 60 minutes to perform; any discomfort is typically mild and includes an intense cold feeling. 
• Common side effects include temporary, mild swelling, numbness, redness, and tingling. 
• Typically patients are satisfied after 1 to 2 treatments.
• Results are noticeable within 1 month and final after 2-3 months. 
• Results last barring significant weight gain.

EmSculpt Neo

EmSculpt Neo for the upper arms is a comprehensive muscle-building and fat-burning treatment available for some of the most problematic areas of the body—including the arms. The EmSculpt NEO machine can treat arms, thighs, and calves thanks to a smaller applicator.

Emsculpt NEO uses patented High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic energy known as HIFEM. This energy stimulates powerful muscle contractions deep within the arm muscles. These contractions are called “supramaximal contractions” and are impossible to achieve through manual efforts. Think of it this way— you would have to do 20,000 biceps or triceps curls to achieve the same level of muscle contractions delivered in a single EmSculpt NEO session. 

Procedure for EmSculpt Neo of the Arms

During your EmSculpt NEO session, your practitioner places a single applicator over the arms. Both HIFEM and RF energy emit from the applicator and penetrate the skin. The Radiofrequency energy essentially melts the stubborn fat cells in the arm, eliminating them from the body for good.

Weeks after your treatment, your body will gather the melted or destroyed fat cells in the arm and expel them from the body through the lymphatic system as a form of waste. EmSculpt NEO results in muscle building, strengthening, and toning and provides long-term fat reduction in the arms.

Fast Facts About EmSculpt Neo

• Clinical studies showed an average of 30% reduction in subcutaneous fat.
• Treatment plans for EmSculpt NEO vary per person but usually involve four 30-minute sessions.
• Temporary redness and swelling in the treated area are expected. You may also experience muscle soreness, similar to what you might feel after a strenuous workout. 
• The best time to see final results is typically 3 months after the last treatment.

¹ Cryolipolysis for noninvasive body contouring: clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction. PubMed Central. June 2014. Source