Body

Kybella®

Kybella® is an FDA-approved injectable treatment designed to reduce fullness under the chin by targeting and breaking down unwanted fat cells. At The West Institute, we use a thoughtful, customized approach to improve jawline definition while maintaining natural facial balance. Treatments are performed in-office with minimal downtime, and results develop gradually as the body clears the treated fat cells. A consultation allows us to determine whether Kybella® is the right option for your goals and anatomy. 

Sofwave®

Sofwave® is an FDA-cleared ultrasound treatment that stimulates collagen production to lift and tighten the skin. It uses precise, controlled energy to target the mid-dermis, improving laxity along the brows, jawline, neck, and lower face with little to no downtime. It’s a non-invasive option for patients who want subtle, natural-looking support and firmer skin without surgery. 

Sculptra®

Sculptra® is an FDA-approved biostimulatory injectable made of poly-L-lactic acid that gradually stimulates your body’s own collagen production. Rather than creating instant volume, it works over time to improve skin firmness, structure, and overall facial support. It’s ideal for patients looking for subtle, progressive rejuvenation and long-term collagen renewal. 

Liposuction

Liposuction is a safe surgical procedure that permanently diminishes subcutaneous fat. Created for problem areas resistant to exercise and dieting, liposuction targets localized deposits of fat to create a leaner appearance. Liposuction at the West Institute is performed using local anesthesia in a technique known as “tumescent liposuction.” Developed by dermatologists, the tumescent liposuction technique has been proven safer than liposuction performed using general anesthesia. Dr. West was trained in this technique by experts in the field and has been performing tumescent liposuction since 1998.

Avéli™ Cellulite Treatment

Avéli™ is the only cellulite treatment that directly targets and releases the septae responsible for cellulite dimples, ensuring real-time verification of the treatment success. This innovative procedure is performed in a single office visit and offers a quick and efficient solution to cellulite concerns with lasting results.

Emsella®

Emsella uses high intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology to generate a series of supramaximal muscle contractions in the pelvic floor muscles. These contractions are more powerful than the voluntary muscular contractions that occur during exercise and do not allow for a relaxation period. During Emsella, these contractions strengthen the pelvic floor and retrain those muscles to help relieve both stress and urge incontinence.

EMSculpt®

EMsculpt is a body contouring treatment that uses electromagnetic energy to stimulate muscles and simultaneously reduce subcutaneous fat without surgery, incisions, or downtime. It is the first and only non-invasive device that builds muscle and melts fat by building up the weak muscles underneath the fat. In addition, EMsculpt provides a non-surgical butt lift and improvement of abdominal separation (diastasis recti). The West Institute was the first practice in Montgomery County to offer EMsculpt. They were also the first to add FDA-approved applicators that build muscles in the arms and legs, including the calves.

CoolSculpting Elite™

Coolsculpting® is a revolutionary non-surgical permanent fat reduction technology that gently and effectively reduces or eliminates areas of unwanted fat. The results are similar to those of liposuction but without the surgery. At the West Institute, we have all of the most advanced, updated CoolSculpting body applicators, and the most up-to-date device (CoolSculpting Elite) that allows us to complete each treatment cycle in just 35 minutes! Compared to the traditional model, CoolSculpting Elite is faster, quieter, more comfortable, and freezes more fat in less time.

Hand Rejuvenation

Radiesse® is FDA-approved to replace volume loss on the hands. It is an injectable calcium-based dermal filler that can also be used to smooth and firm crepey skin (fine wrinkling) on the chest, arms, the area above the knees, and any other area that has lost elasticity. It works immediately upon injection, volumizing the treated area and additionally, as time goes on, the gel microspheres stimulate your naturally occurring collagen, leaving you with long-lasting natural results.

LightSheer DUET Laser Hair Removal

The West Institute’s Laser Hair Removal treatment utilizes High Speed LightSheer DUET, a state-of-the-art diode laser, which produces a large beam of highly concentrated light. The light emitted is absorbed by the pigment located in the hair follicles. LightSheer is also the first painless hair removal laser that requires no numbing cream. At the West Institute, we ensure the fastest and most painless option is available to our patients. Our device, with its large spot size, allows the process to treat numerous hair follicles simultaneously, making the treatment much faster than traditional laser hair removal alternatives.

Post-Weight Loss Rejuvenation

The West Institute’s Post-Weight Loss Rejuvenation program addresses the unique aesthetic transitions that follow significant weight loss, whether achieved through lifestyle changes or GLP-1 therapies. While weight loss is a transformative milestone, it often results in increased skin laxity, facial hollowing, and thinning in the hands as the body’s underlying tissue remodels. We utilize an evidence-based, structural approach that goes beyond simple “filling” to restore natural balance and support. By integrating regenerative injectables, energy-based skin tightening, and advanced body contouring, we reinforce the skin’s foundation. Our customized treatment plans ensure that your outward appearance reflects the strength and vitality of your health journey, providing results that look natural and refined.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Body Contouring?

Body contouring treatments may be appropriate for patients who have issues such as:

• Have areas of stubborn fat that have not responded to diet and exercise
• Want to improve the appearance of cellulite dimpling
• Are noticing loose, crepey, or less elastic skin
• Want improved muscle tone or definition
• Have experienced post-weight loss volume loss or skin laxity
• Prefer non-surgical treatment options with minimal downtime
• Are looking to improve body contour and overall skin quality

During your consultation, Dr. West and her team will carefully evaluate your concerns, anatomy, skin quality, and goals to develop a customized treatment plan. Patients at The West Institute can expect a thoughtful, highly personalized experience focused on education, comfort, safety, and natural-looking results throughout both the consultation and treatment process.

Why Choose The West Institute for Body Contouring?

At The West Institute, body contouring treatments are approached with a strong emphasis on customization, safety, and natural-looking results. Dr. Tina West is a board-certified dermatologist with decades of experience in cosmetic dermatology, laser technology, injectables, and body contouring procedures. She has extensive expertise treating concerns related to stubborn fat, cellulite, skin laxity, post-weight loss changes, and age-related tissue changes using both surgical and non-surgical techniques.

Rather than relying on a single treatment approach, Dr. West carefully evaluates skin quality, anatomy, muscle tone, and aesthetic goals to determine the most appropriate plan for each patient. The West Institute offers advanced technologies including CoolSculpting Elite™, EMsculpt®, Sofwave®, Avéli™, Kybella®, and tumescent liposuction, allowing treatments to be tailored to the specific concerns being addressed.

Ready To See How Our Body Contouring Treatments Will Benefit You?

To learn how body contouring treatments can help create long-lasting results you’ll love, call Dr. West at The West Institute for Skin, Laser + Body Contouring at 301-986-9378 or fill out our online form today. We are located in Chevy Chase, MD, and proudly serve Bethesda, Washington D.C., Northern Virginia, and other nearby areas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Body Contouring

What body contouring treatments are available at The West Institute?

The West Institute offers CoolSculpting Elite™, EMsculpt®, Avéli™, Sofwave®, Kybella®, liposuction, hand rejuvenation treatments, laser hair removal, and post-weight loss rejuvenation programs.

Is body contouring a weight loss treatment?

No. Body contouring treatments are designed to improve shape, contour, muscle tone, cellulite, and skin quality rather than produce significant weight loss.

What areas can be treated with body contouring?

Treatment areas may include the abdomen, flanks, thighs, buttocks, arms, calves, chin, neck, bra line, knees, and hands.

Does CoolSculpting Elite™ permanently remove fat?

Yes. CoolSculpting Elite™ freezes and destroys treated fat cells, which are then naturally cleared by the body.

How is Avéli™ different from other cellulite treatments?

Avéli™ directly targets and releases the fibrous bands responsible for cellulite dimpling and allows real-time verification during treatment.

Can EMsculpt® build muscle?

Yes. EMsculpt® uses electromagnetic energy to create supramaximal muscle contractions that strengthen muscle while reducing fat.

Is liposuction performed under general anesthesia?

No. Liposuction at The West Institute is performed using local anesthesia through the tumescent liposuction technique.

How many CoolSculpting Elite™ treatments are usually needed?

The number of treatment cycles depends on the treatment area and the amount of fat being addressed. Some patients benefit from multiple sessions for additional contouring.

Can body contouring help loose skin after weight loss?

Yes. Treatments such as Sofwave®, Sculptra®, Radiesse®, and customized post-weight loss rejuvenation plans may help improve skin quality and support collagen remodeling.

Is there downtime after non-surgical body contouring?

Most non-surgical treatments involve minimal downtime. Temporary swelling, soreness, numbness, or bruising may occur depending on the treatment performed.

Who is a candidate for Kybella®?

Kybella® may be appropriate for patients bothered by fullness beneath the chin that has not improved with diet or exercise.

How long do body contouring results last?

Results can be long-lasting when patients maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Some treatments, such as CoolSculpting Elite™, Kybella®, and liposuction, permanently reduce treated fat cells.