Many people struggle to get rid of stubborn fat that can’t be eliminated with diet and exercise. That’s why body contouring treatments are gaining popularity. These treatments are designed to eliminate unwanted areas of fat to get a more defined and sculpted body shape.
Two of the most common body contouring treatments include CoolSculpting and liposuction. Both are primarily for fat reduction, but they are quite different. Understanding the differences can help you determine the option that best suits your needs.
What Is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a non-surgical procedure that uses controlled cooling technology to freeze fat cells. Once the fat cells are frozen, they break down and naturally leave the body over time. The procedure is safe for areas such as the abdomen, thighs, arms, and under the chin. Since it involves no surgeries, cuts, stitches, or long recovery time, you can usually resume your daily activities immediately after receiving treatment.
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves suctioning fat out of the body. The surgeon makes small cuts in the patient’s skin and then uses a thin tube (cannula) to suck out fat pockets from specific parts of the body. Liposuction can remove more fat than CoolSculpting, and it can be done on many parts of the body. It is surgery, which means that it involves anesthesia, downtime, and recovery time.
Recovery Time and Comfort
One of the largest differences between the two treatments is recovery time. CoolSculpting has little to no downtime, and most individuals are able to return to work the same day. Patients sometimes experience mild numbness, redness, or swelling—but these side effects end quickly.
Liposuction, on the other hand, has a longer recovery time. Patients can often need to rest for a few days before returning to normal activity. Swelling or bruising can last for weeks, and patients are often required to wear compression garments. The results are more immediate, but the recovery is longer.
Effectiveness of Results
While both treatments are good, they provide different degrees and speeds of results. One of the advantages of liposuction is that it can remove larger volumes of fat in one visit, making it a great option for patients seeking significant changes. While CoolSculpting can produce results, those tend to be more modest, and patients may need multiple treatments to achieve their desired look.
It is also important to understand that neither of them is a solution for weight loss. These procedures are for body contouring, or say they are shaping tools, not replacements for healthy habits. Patients who have a good exercise regime, along with healthy eating, get to see the most successful long-term results.
Risks and Safety
CoolSculpting is considered quite safe because it is noninvasive. Most people will only experience temporary side effects like redness or slight discomfort. Serious risks are very rare.
Liposuction is a surgery, so there are more potential risks. These can include infection, issues with anesthesia, or uneven removal of fat. While trusting a skilled and experienced surgeon can help, there is no way to eliminate these risks completely.
Which Treatment Is Better?
The answer is determined by what you are looking for. If you want to see noticeable results quickly and are okay with surgery and a long recovery, liposuction may be your best option. If you are okay with results taking some time and want a non-surgical option with little to no downtime, then CoolSculpting is probably a better option for you. Meeting with a qualified provider in San Antonio will give you insight and help you decide which is best for you and your body type, lifestyle, and goals.
Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center in San Antonio
For those looking for a trusted name for body contouring treatment, the Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center in San Antonio offers safe and advanced CoolSculpting treatments. Our team of skilled professionals focuses on comfort and natural results, helping patients achieve their body goals without the risks of surgery. With personalized care and modern technology, we help you tone your body safely and feel your best the moment you walk out of our clinic.
Schedule an appointment today!