HIFEM stands for high-intensity focused electromagnetic technology, which uses a magnetic field to stimulate muscle contractions. In this episode, Darren M. Smith, MD, a plastic surgeon in New York City, discusses its use in original Emsculpt, the pelvic floor treatment Emsella and the then-new Emsculpt NEO.
The recording connects these treatments through their muscle-stimulation technology while distinguishing the body areas and goals involved. It also explains what radiofrequency adds to the NEO discussion.
Key takeaways
🔬 Original Emsculpt focuses on body muscles.
Dr. Smith describes electromagnetic stimulation in the context of muscle tone and body contour.
🔎 Emsella targets the pelvic floor.
The episode describes a clothed, chair-based treatment and discusses urinary leakage. This is a different clinical concern from changing abdominal or limb contour.
🔎 Emsculpt NEO combines technologies.
The recording explains the addition of radiofrequency heating to electromagnetic muscle stimulation, with fat reduction included among the treatment goals discussed.
🔎 The intended result depends on the area and protocol.
Dr. Smith distinguishes buttock treatment aimed at muscle and contour from protocols intended to reduce fat.
🔎 The episode introduces a combined approach.
He describes coordinating abdominal and pelvic floor treatments under the term core-to-floor. That discussion does not establish that every patient needs both.
💬 Questions answered
Are Emsculpt NEO and Emsella the same treatment?
No. In the recording, NEO is discussed for body muscles and contouring, while Emsella targets pelvic floor muscles. Shared electromagnetic technology does not make the treatments or their goals interchangeable.
Does every protocol discussed aim to reduce fat?
No. Dr. Smith specifically describes a gluteal protocol designed to emphasize muscle and buttock contour without targeting fat loss. A current consultation should identify the exact device, treatment area and intended effect.
ℹ️ Current context for this 2020 recording
The contraction comparisons, percentages and protocols in the audio are historical claims, not promised individual results. For body-contouring applications, the FDA explains that noninvasive contouring does not treat obesity or provide weight-loss health benefits and that magnetic-field treatments require screening for contraindications. Pelvic floor symptoms also need their own assessment; the episode does not diagnose the cause of leakage or guarantee continence or sexual-wellness outcomes.
🎧 Episode chapters
00:39 — Original Emsculpt and HIFEM
01:11 — How electromagnetic stimulation works
01:49 — Emsella and pelvic floor goals
03:02 — What Emsculpt NEO adds
04:37 — Gluteal protocols and core-to-floor discussion
🔗 Related information
Explore Emsculpt NEO information, Emsella information, nonsurgical treatment information, or request a consultation with Dr. Smith in New York City.
About the host — current biography
Darren M. Smith, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Manhattan specializing in mommy makeover surgery, breast surgery, and body contouring. He was named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026 and has co-authored authoritative peer-reviewed publications on combined breast surgery and abdominoplasty and the surgical care of postpartum patients.
Originally released December 2, 2020. Show notes updated September 30, 2026. This is general education. Current recommendations, suitability, risks and expected results require an individual assessment.
Full transcript and related resources
