There are very few ways to permanently get rid of fat cells, but CoolSculpting and liposuction are two of them. At VIDA, we offer CoolSculpting as a safe, non-invasive option. However, it isn’t a “weight loss” treatment even though, ultimately, it works by freezing away unwanted fat cells. It does not fall into a fat removal category because the number of fat cells removed is relatively small. In fact, you might not even see a change in the scale while undergoing your cycles. Instead, depend on measurements, progress photos, and how your clothes fit to gauge how well your CoolSculpting sessions are working. Liposuction is a form of fat removal, but it comes with risks and side effects.

Liposuction is the surgical removal of unwanted fat using a vacuum suction-type device. General anesthesia is required and even though it’s a relatively minor surgery compared to some others (such as a tummy tuck), it’s still a surgery. This means an incision or incisions will be required. However, incisions for liposuction are small, but still visible. Typically, just like with CoolSculpting, liposuction is recommended for those who are at or near their goal weight but struggle with problem areas. Those who are obese will benefit from weight loss first before considering liposuction or CoolSculpting. This weight loss may occur by adhering to a new diet and exercise plan, or a more aggressive approach (like weight loss surgery such as gastric bypass) that should be recommended by a doctor.

Why CoolSculpting Bests Liposuction

CoolSculpting is totally non-invasive and comfortable. Most people require up to six initial sessions to achieve optimal results. It works by exposing targeted fat to precise, external freezing temperatures. The science behind CoolSculpting was discovered by accident when researchers noticed that children who ate a lot of frozen treats had less fat in their face. It turns out that when fat is externally exposed to freezing temps, this “kills” the fat cells. They are then naturally metabolized by the body and eventually eliminated.

Unfortunately, this has led to a TikTok trend of trying DIY CoolSculpting. This is pointless at best and dangerous at worst. Those who intentionally try to “freeze” fat may instead suffer frostbite. Alternatively, applying ice packs to problem areas may simply results in discomfort with no results. You need professional targeting and technology in order to get the results you want. Only CoolSculpting can effectively contour and sculpt the body via cryolipolysis.

The Problem with Liposuction

Liposuction comes with all of the risks of surgery, which extends beyond the inherent risk of anesthesia and living with incision scar(s). Post-surgery, liposuction causes intense bruising and swelling. The severity of bruising caused by liposuction is in many ways unparalleled—in fact, those who combine tummy tucks with liposuction (which is common) often say that the pain from liposuction is worse. Compression garments must be worn for weeks following the procedure in order to reduce the risk of edema and help the body adapt to its new shape. These garments can be uncomfortable, especially in warmer months.

There is also the risk of excessive skin laxity after undergoing liposuction. With this surgery, all of the unwanted fat is removed at once, which is a bit of a shock to the system. With CoolSculpting, a steady approach is taken. Fat is slowly dissolved from the body, allowing the skin to naturally adapt to the new shape. There is a much lower risk of new skin laxity with CoolSculpting compared to liposuction.

Right now is the perfect time to think about CoolSculpting, seeing as swimsuit season is around the corner. You will typically start to see some progress one month after your first cycle, but it can take up to six months after your last cycle for full results to be evident. Start right now if you want to show off the best you in time for those summer vacations. And remember that CoolSculpting is a contouring and sculpting treatment to complement a healthy lifestyle and diet—not an alternative. Those fat cells might be gone forever, but weight gain can cause nearby fat cells to grow and move into their place.

Schedule your complimentary consultation for CoolSculpting today. Call VIDA during office hours or, for a quicker response, complete the online contact form now.