There are now multiple non-surgical devices that promise to build muscle and burn fat — but not all technologies are created equal. Two of the most commonly compared treatments are Emsculpt NEO and TeslaFormer.
At The Derm Lab, we’ve trialled both devices. Here’s what we’ve found when comparing them on clinical data, treatment experience, and patient results.
⚙️ How They Work: The Basics
Both devices use electromagnetic stimulation to cause supramaximal muscle contractions — far beyond what you can achieve voluntarily at the gym. But there are major differences in how they affect the fat layer, energy delivery, and real-world results.
🔬 Emsculpt NEO: Dual Technology
- Combines HIFEM+ (High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic) with RF (radiofrequency)
- Builds muscle and simultaneously reduces fat
- Has over 30 peer-reviewed clinical studies backing its efficacy
- Results: up to 25% more muscle, 30% less fat in treated area
- FDA-cleared for 9 areas of the body
⚡ TeslaFormer: Basic Electromagnetic Stimulation
- Uses FMS (Functional Magnetic Stimulation) — similar but less advanced than HIFEM+
- Targets muscle tone only — no heating, no fat reduction
- Fewer high-level clinical studies
- Results can vary and depend on intensity & protocol
- Limited treatment area options
📊 Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Emsculpt NEO | TeslaFormer |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle Building | ✅ Yes (HIFEM+) | ✅ Yes (FMS) |
| Fat Reduction | ✅ Yes (RF) | ❌ No |
| Clinical Studies | ✅ 30+ peer-reviewed | ⚠️ Limited publicly available |
| Comfort | ✅ Tolerable heat & contraction | ⚠️ Discomfort reported at high intensity |
| Treatment Areas | ✅ 9 areas incl. abs, glutes, arms, thighs | ⚠️ Mostly core-focused |
| Session Time | ⏱️ 30 minutes | ⏱️ 30 minutes |
| Downtime | ❌ None | ❌ None |
🔥 Which One Delivers Better Results?
In our experience at The Derm Lab, Emsculpt NEO delivers superior results for both fat reduction and muscle building. It’s especially effective for clients who:
- Have a layer of subcutaneous fat over the muscle
- Want visible definition (e.g. abs, arms, butt lift)
- Need backed-by-science outcomes they can trust
TeslaFormer may have some benefit for muscle tone in already lean individuals, but the lack of fat reduction limits its overall impact for body contouring.
📍 Why We Offer Emsculpt NEO at The Derm Lab
After testing both systems, we chose to offer Emsculpt NEO exclusively because:
- It provides dual benefit: sculpting + fat reduction
- It’s supported by independent, peer-reviewed clinical studies
- It produces predictable, visible results our clients love
- It treats multiple areas with a customisable protocol
💬 Real Results
“After four sessions of Emsculpt NEO, my lower abs were more defined and I lost centimetres around my waist — without changing my routine.”
— Josh, 36
“I’d previously tried TeslaFormer elsewhere but didn’t see much difference. EmSculpt NEO gave me real lift and shape.”
— Monique, 40
🧠 Final Verdict
If you’re looking for true body transformation — not just a toned feeling, but visible, clinical results — Emsculpt NEO is the clear winner.
TeslaFormer may be a lower-cost option, but without fat reduction, published data, or muscle gain metrics, it falls short for most patients.
📍 Book Your Body Sculpting Consultation in Melbourne
Not sure which approach is right for your body? Our clinicians will guide you through the best treatment plan — with real results and no guesswork.
