As we set wellness goals for 2026, body contouring treatments like CoolSculpting are more popular than ever. But with that popularity comes confusion: What does body contouring actually do? Is it a weight loss solution? And what should you realistically expect?
Welcome to Part 1 of our 2026 Glow Guide series. We sat down with Halei Stebbins, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, Aesthetics at Apex Skin in Medina, Ohio, to get the unfiltered truth about body contouring and how it fits into your overall wellness journey.
Let’s start with the most important truth: body contouring is not a magic solution for weight loss.
“When it comes to body contouring it is important to remember that it is not a magic pill,” Stebbins emphasized. “This treatment will target current fat cells, but to see results you still have to manage your diet and keep exercising. There is nothing that promises you won’t develop new fat cells.”
Body contouring works best as one tool in a comprehensive wellness toolkit, not as a standalone solution.
Body contouring isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Apex Skin, we offer three distinct technologies to target different goals:
Coolsculpting is the #1 non-surgical fat loss treatment uses cryolipolysis (controlled cooling) to freeze and eliminate stubborn fat cells. FDA-cleared to treat 9 different areas including abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, and under the chin. No surgery, no needles, no downtime. You can return to your daily activities immediately.
Best for: Eliminating pinchable fat in targeted areas
Coolsculpting is the #1 non-surgical fat loss treatment uses cryolipolysis (controlled cooling) to freeze and eliminate stubborn fat cells. FDA-cleared to treat 9 different areas including abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, and under the chin. No surgery, no needles, no downtime. You can return to your daily activities immediately.
Best for: Eliminating pinchable fat in targeted areas
EmFace uses the same radiofrequency and electromagnetic technology as EmSculpt NEO, but designed specifically for facial contouring. Contracts facial muscles to create a natural lift, reduces wrinkles, and boosts collagen production all without surgery, needles, or toxins. Quick 20-minute treatments with no downtime.
Best for: Lifting and tightening facial skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles
CoolSculpting targets subcutaneous fat. Not all fat is created equal and understanding this distinction is crucial for setting realistic expectations.
“Body contouring is very, very specific,” Stebbins explained. “CoolSculpting targets subcutaneous fat—pinchable fat that you can grab onto—not visceral fat—the fat around your internal organs.”
Subcutaneous Fat (What CoolSculpting Targets):
Visceral Fat (What CoolSculpting Cannot Target):
“If you have visceral fat, we need to start talking about our weight loss program using semaglutide, tirzepatide, diet and exercise,” Stebbins said. “These solutions combined are what will give you your best results.” Learn about medical weight loss.
Here’s the typical timeline:
“You should expect to see results after your second treatment, maybe even your third treatment. It’s very patient dependent.” Stebbins explained.
Most patients need 2-3 treatments per area for desired results. Strategic spacing allows your body to process fat cells safely and effectively. Discover more about your CoolSculpting Experience at Apex Skin.
Here’s the critical truth: “There is nothing that says you can’t develop new fat cells.”
CoolSculpting eliminates the fat cells it targets and those specific cells are gone permanently. However, if you gain weight after treatment, your remaining fat cells can expand, and your body can develop new fat cells.
This means:
Building your best body isn’t about shortcuts. It’s about solid nutrition and exercise foundations, medical support when needed, strategic body contouring for stubborn areas, and long-term commitment to healthy habits.
Body contouring isn’t a standalone solution. It’s most effective as part of a comprehensive wellness approach.
“All the things combined is what is going to give you your best results,” Stebbins emphasized.
The complete picture includes:
This holistic approach ensures lasting results and overall wellness, not just aesthetic improvements.
This is Part 1 of our 2026 Glow Guide series. Coming soon: Part 2 will cover skincare foundations, the pyramid approach, and understanding Botox—everything you need to prepare your skin for 2026.
Halei Stebbins is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Aesthetic Medicine. Originally from Louisiana, her career took her to Houston for a year before she and her family ultimately settled in Ohio, where they’ve made their home. Halei earned her BSN from Northwestern State University in 2013 and went on to complete her MSN with a focus on Family Practice at Chamberlain University in 2020.