Weight Loss Solutions: The Difference Between CoolSculpting and Liposuction

If you’re looking for an effective weight loss treatment, the process can be frustrating. CoolSculpting and Liposuction are two valid options, but which is best for you? Here’s what you need to know.

Liposuction

Liposuction was originally developed in the 1980s, which is to say that it’s been in practice for a lot longer. As a result, there are a number of different liposuction procedures available. These include Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction, Power Assisted Liposuction, Laser Assisted Liposuction, and more. Even though each of these variations uses a slightly different technique, all are effective. That being said, your situation may be suited more to one than the others. So if you’re not sold on traditional liposuction, it’s a good idea to ask about one of these variations.

It is important to note that liposuction is an invasive surgical procedure. You may come out with a small scar or wrinkle that wasn’t there before, though your surgeon will make it as discreet as possible. Liposuction can be performed under local or general anesthesia, and under full sedation. The type of anesthesia you’ll need for your procedure largely depends on the area in which you want fat removed. The bigger the area, the more anesthetic you’ll need.

Aside from being an invasive procedure, the biggest factor to consider is the recovery period. After a liposuction procedure, you’ll need to take a recovery period of at least a few weeks. Bruising and swelling around the surgical site are to be expected, as well.

CoolSculpting

Coolsculpting is a relatively new procedure for fat loss. Unlike liposuction, CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require any form of anesthesia. Instead, a gel is spread over the area you’d like treated and a cooling device is hooked up to that area. This device passes liquid through it and continually cools it with a device at the base of the machine. Another variation of this procedure utilizes suction to pull fat into the machine for more effective cooling. The goal of this procedure is to freeze unwanted fat in any one area of the body.

A CoolSculpting session can last anywhere from one to two hours, depending on the method used. Once a session is over, a brief massage is administered and you can be on your way. Of course, this procedure isn’t without its side effects. Some people may experience a rash on stomach areas treated by the gel. Others may feel some tenderness in the treated area for a few days or weeks following the procedure. Aside from that, however, there’s really no downtime for CoolSculpting. It is important to keep in mind that it may require more than one treatment, though. Similarly to services like chemical peels and laser tattoo removal, it can take a few sessions to see the results you want.

Which Is Right for Me?

Choosing one of these treatments to aid in your weight loss journey is a big step. Liposuction is the more aggressive treatment, but it can also remove more fat in a single session. CoolSculpting is less time-consuming and it’s non-invasive, but it might be best for small fatty deposits. It’s always best to consult with your doctor to see if you’re a good candidate for either of these procedures.

Weight loss can feel like a never-ending journey. If you’re looking for help with removing fat, one of these procedures could be right for you. If you want to learn more about medical weight loss treatments like liposuction and CoolSculpting, contact SE Dermatology Specialists today.