Liposuction vs CoolSculpting

For many people, Liposuction is often the first surgical option considered to remove excess fat from the body and achieve a slimmer and alluring figure. While there are some techniques surgeons employ to meet your desired outcome, you can now seek a non-invasive alternative in the form of CoolSculpting.

Difference In Approach

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that eliminates fat from the body. During surgery, the unwanted fats are sucked out using a thin tube known as a cannula.

CoolSculpting, on the other hand, eliminates the unwanted fat by freezing them through a method known as cryolipolysis. The fat cells are broken down, absorbed by the body, and removed through the lymphatic system. The results vary from patient to patient but can eliminate about 25% of fat in the treated area.

Now that you have a basic understanding of these cosmetic procedures let’s take a moment to break down the differences of each method.

1. Treatment Options Liposuction is a far more aggressive treatment compared to CoolSculpting, and because of this, it allows more fat to be removed in one session. Because CoolSculpting is far less invasive, it can take up to several sessions to remove the same amount of fat.
2. Anesthesia Unlike liposuction, anesthesia is not needed during a CoolSculpting treatment since there is no need to cut an incision on your body.
3. Recovery Time No recovery time is needed for CoolSculpting. However, you may feel some slight tenderness to touch and temporary numbness in the area for a few weeks. On the other hand, it will take your body roughly six weeks to heal from liposuction surgery.
4. Results Due to the nature of the procedure itself, results from liposuction can be seen immediately, though some degree of swelling may persist for many months. It may take up to three months before you will notice your results from CoolSculpting and it is a gradual process.
5. Pricing Despite the number of treatments you will need to attain your desired result, CoolSculpting is generally cheaper than liposuction.

Liposuction or CoolSculpting: What Should I Get?

While both techniques yield the same results, CoolSculpting and liposuction are two vastly different procedures. That said, it’s ultimately up to you, the patient, to decide what procedure is best for you and what lines up with your personal cosmetic goals.

Liposuction is advisable for patients who require extensive removal of fat. Since it is a surgical procedure, it can be combined with procedures such as Tummy Tuck and Breast Augmentation, in what’s commonly referred to as a ‘Mommy Makeover.’ This combination of surgeries restores the body to a more youthful shape and contour. If you want to see immediate results despite a two-week downtime, this may be your best option.

On the other hand, CoolSculpting is an excellent option if you have less fat in your body. It is an alternative for people who want to avoid surgery due to preferences or health issues. Since there is no need for your body to recover, you may be able to continue with work and other regular activities. However, you will need a second or third session to attain your desired shape and form.

Yes, liposuction and CoolSculpting are weight loss procedures that can provide the shape of your body with tremendous improvement. But these procedures must only be used in circumstances where an active lifestyle and a healthy diet fall short.

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Every year, thousands of people across the city of Houston reap the benefits of CoolSculpting and liposuction to improve their bodies and their way of life. If you are interested in either procedure, it is best to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Under their experience and guidance, you can begin to identify what course of treatment works best for you and your goals.