The human body’s tendency to store fat in inconvenient places has led to a high demand for body contouring treatments. While many people are most familiar with liposuction as a fat removal method, nonsurgical methods like CoolSculpting® offer a different way to target those problem areas. Both have advantages we will discuss during your consultation to help you achieve results that give you newfound confidence.
What are CoolSculpting® and Liposuction?
If you struggle with fat around areas like your abdomen, upper arms, or under your chin, you have several options to address it. Liposuction and CoolSculpting® can sculpt and slim these areas, but they work in different ways. Liposuction is a surgical procedure that uses a small incision to insert a cannula and remove fat cells. CoolSculpting® works by freezing fat cells and allowing your body to remove them.
CoolSculpting® vs. Liposuction: Which is Better?
Which body contouring procedure you choose will depend on many factors. Your Awaken Aesthetics team will discuss your options and help you make the best choice for your goals.
Surgical vs. Nonsurgical
The biggest difference between the two treatments is how invasive they are. While liposuction uses one or a few small incisions, CoolSculpting® is noninvasive. As a result, liposuction leaves a few small scars versus none with nonsurgical methods. CoolSculpting® has fewer risks than liposuction, although no procedure is risk-free.
Is it Comfortable?
CoolSculpting® does not require any form of anesthesia. The fat-freezing temperature numbs but does not harm your skin. People having liposuction may receive local anesthesia for smaller procedures and IV sedation or general anesthesia for longer treatments. As a result, you will not feel discomfort during either procedure.
How Long is Recovery?
After liposuction, you will have some swelling and bruising that lasts a few weeks. You will usually have to wear a compression garment and should expect to take several days off from work and a few weeks to return to your exercise routine. CoolSculpting® requires no downtime, although your skin may look red and feel sensitive or numb after treatment.
What Results Will I See?
The results of each treatment depend on your goals and the area being treated. Both can be used almost anywhere on the body that accumulates resistant fat. While liposuction results are immediate, you will have residual swelling for a few months. CoolSculpting® results take about three months to develop.
Am I a Candidate for CoolSculpting® or Liposuction?
While liposuction is the most well-known way to remove pockets of stubborn fat, it is not right for everyone. As a surgical procedure, it may not be appropriate for people with certain medical conditions. CoolSculpting® is an excellent option for most healthy adults, and people appreciate how easily it fits into their busy lifestyles. Candidates for any body contouring treatment should have realistic expectations and be in overall good health.
Take the Next Step
Want to learn more about what you can expect from CoolSculpting® or liposuction? Schedule a consultation at Awaken Aesthetics in Torrance, CA, to learn more by calling (310) 791-2233