Body sculpting treatments and procedures include a wide array of non-invasive and surgical options that are designed to eliminate stubborn fat. From downtime-free energy-based treatments to surgery, plastic surgeon Dr. Sachin Shridharani of New York City’s LUXURGERY explains the various ways to banish unwanted bulges for good.

Body contouring is ideal for adults of all ages and walks of life, and fat-eliminating treatments and procedures deliver the extra boost that cannot be provided by diet and exercise alone. This area of cosmetic enhancement has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, and there are options ranging from non-invasive devices and minimally-invasive injections to surgery. Whether you’re looking to subtle refinement or dramatic improvement, these are the best ways address excess fat.

Non-Invasive Fat Reduction
CoolSculpting: For patients who want to eliminate stubborn bulges of fat that are resistant to a healthy diet and regular exercise, CoolSculpting is ideal for improving the appearance of problem spots without the need for surgery. Designed to literally freeze and permanently destroy fat cells, this treatment can be used on the upper arms, abdomen, flanks, hips and thighs.

SculpSure: This laser-based body-contouring treatment provides quick, comfortable reduction of stubborn fat with no downtime. Utilizing diode laser energy to destroy fat cells with heat while simultaneously cooling the skin for optimal comfort, SculpSure does not incorporate suction, which eliminates the risk of bruising or discomfort afterwards.

EmSculpt: The first-of-its-kind in-office treatment designed to enhance abdominal muscle definition and give the buttocks a non-invasive lift, EmSculpt stimulates high-intensity muscle contractions with HIFEM (focused electromagnetic energy). Two treatments a week for two weeks helps visibly increase tone and burn fat, although maintenance treatments are required for long-lasting results.

Minimally-Invasive Fat Reduction
Kybella: This injectable solution is comprised of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring compound that permanently destroys fat cells. Although technically FDA-approved for improving the appearance of a double chin, many doctors are using Kybella off-label to reduce other areas with unwanted fat such as saddlebags, love handles, behind and inside the knees, around the bra line and beyond.

Invasive Fat Reduction
Liposuction: The world’s most commonly performed cosmetic surgery procedure, liposuction is highly effective for permanently removing stubborn pockets of fat. Liposuction can be performed on its own or in conjunction with other non-invasive and plastic surgery procedures. The gold standard for fat reduction, liposuction surgery is ideal for larger areas and reducing significant amounts of fat on the abdomen, hips, thighs, lower back, upper arms and virtually any place on the body.