CoolSculpting vs Liposuction: What’s the Difference?
Health and wellness go hand-in-hand, and living your best life is something that everyone should strive for. Unfortunately, life tends to throw us all a few curveballs from time to time. This can come in the form of stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to even our best diet and exercise efforts. Fortunately, there are more cosmetic options available than ever that don’t require excessive downtime or recovery. It can be overwhelming to pick your best option, though, so here’s what to know about two of the most popular body contouring options on the market.
What is Liposuction?
One of the best ways to remove fat is through liposuction. This particular procedure involves the suctioning of fat cells from the body through a hollow tube that’s known as a cannula. An aspirator and a gentle sweeping motion are used to help with fat removal. Of course, liposuction is still a minimally-invasive surgical procedure that requires tiny incisions. Depending on the area of treatment, this procedure can last between one to two hours. Local anesthesia is also required, and your recovery can last for only a few days.
Liposuction remains one of the most effective and transformative options because of its invasive nature. With the right board certified plastic surgeon, you can achieve excellent results on virtually any area of the body. If you’re okay with a slightly more invasive option that produces faster, more transformative results, liposuction will be your best option.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a newer, less invasive way of reducing fatty pockets. This non-surgical procedure has grown more popular over the past few years. CoolSculpting is basically the freezing of fat cells underneath the skin. This is achieved with a special molded tool that suctions the area and directly cools the fat. Unlike liposuction, CoolSculpting has no downtime. Your body will begin to eliminate dead fat cells via your metabolic pathways, which can take a few weeks. The entire process can take less than an hour, but you’ll require more than one treatment to maximize your results, which is commonly about 25% reduction in fat in the treatment area.
CoolSculpting is an excellent option if you’re looking to boost your diet and exercise regimen and see gradual results. Because CoolSculpting doesn’t require downtime, many patients prefer it over surgical body contouring. However, you can expect a package of multiple treatments for best results.
Which one is best for me?
Each patient will have different preferences for treatment, meaning it’s best to assess which ones are most important to you. If you want to avoid any surgical elements, then CoolSculpting will be your best bet. However, if you’re okay with some downtime and want the best results possible, then liposuction is an excellent option. The best way to learn more about the benefits of each is to speak with your plastic surgeon who can give you the best idea of what to expect.
Schedule a Consultation
We’re excited to begin creating the ideal treatment plan for you and your body contouring goals. To get started, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Basile by calling or filling out our online form.
