Liposuction or Coolsculpting - What's the Difference?

The formula for a toned and slim body is often touted as regular exercise and a healthy diet. While these are essential for maintaining good health, most people discover that certain parts of their bodies don't change no matter how long they hit the gym. For people who cannot achieve their body goals by conventional means, there is always a suitable non-surgical and surgical fat reduction procedure. While Liposuction is one of the most popular surgical treatments for people looking to reduce fat, CoolSculpting is also gaining popularity due to its less invasive nature. Although effective in adipose tissue reduction and improving the body's contour, both these procedures are very different.

What is Liposuction?

This is one of the most performed cosmetic surgical procedures in the beauty industry. The ASPS estimates that there are over 230,000 surgeries done in the United States alone every year. Liposuction is the process of surgically removing excess body fat. According to Medical News Today, one or more tiny incisions are made on the skin by the plastic surgeon on the targeted area during the procedure. A cannula, which is a narrow suction tool, is inserted into the body through the incision and effectively removes the fat by sucking it out. Most people get Liposuction performed on their neck, chin, upper arms, knees, thighs, buttocks, hips, abdomen, and the waist area.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is the best option for people who are scared of going under the knife. It is an FDA-approved device that uses cryolipolysis technology to reduce fat. The device cools down the skin surface by using a vacuum applicator which exposes the skin to low temperatures causing fat cells in the targeted area to freeze and die. The CoolSculpting tool uses a process that induces crystallization of the fat cells on the body. This procedure is considered the best for reducing fat on the thighs, flanks, abdomen, and the chin area.

CoolSculpting or Liposuction - Which Is the Right Procedure for You?

While CoolSculpting has transformed the fat reduction procedure in the cosmetic industry. Most people often wonder if it has come to replace other more traditional options such as Liposuction. When faced with a dilemma between CoolSculpting and Liposuction, prospective patients must review and answer the below questions to help them decide:

What is your treatment goal?

1. CoolSculpting is the best option for anyone who wants a non-surgical fat reduction procedure. The CoolSculpting tool is designed to target specific focal pouches of fat. If you opt for this procedure, you should expect minimum improvements in the part of the body being treated. Keep in mind that you will require multiple sessions before you achieve your desired results. The number of treatment sessions depends on the area you are trying to treat. Results from the CoolSculpting procedure are not immediate and changes may become noticeable 2-3 weeks after treatment. The body will keep processing and flashing out the injured cells for up to 4 months after the procedure.

2. Liposuction is the best treatment procedure for patients who are looking to get rid of excess fat from a large body area and desire immediate results. This is a more aggressive fat-removal procedure, which will require only one session. The liposuction procedure can also be done in combination with other procedures such as autologous for people who may desire extensive contouring.

The recovery period

1. CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure and it offers minimal discomfort, quick recovery, and patients have a lower risk of developing complications. Patients can always get back to their feet immediately after the procedure. However, they may experience minor bruising, redness, numbness, discomfort, or a tingling feeling on the treated area on rare occasions. These symptoms are often resolved quickly.

2. After a liposuction procedure, recovery is relatively quick, and the patient can get back to their feet after about one week. Symptoms such as bruising, numbness, and swelling are common. These symptoms often subside after a few weeks as the body continues to heal and make adjustments. However, a few days after liposuction surgery, patients will see an overall reduction in size and improved contour of the treated area.

Ultimately, the best treatment procedure for you is one that aligns with individual preferences and aesthetic goals. The first step is to consult an experienced cosmetic surgeon to deliberate on the best option for you depending on your aesthetic goals. When it comes down to it, most people often prefer a noninvasive procedure to get rid of any unwanted body fat. While you may require more than one CoolSculpting session to accomplish your desired look, Liposuction offers results that are noticeable right away.