The Pros and Cons: CoolSculpting vs. Liposuction for Weight Loss

If you have stubborn fat you are ready to get rid of, there are plenty of options available. CoolSculpting and liposuction are both great options depending on the goal you are trying to achieve. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can help you achieve those goals by providing whichever fat removal method you qualify for.

There are many pros and cons to take into consideration when debating between CoolSculpting and liposuction. Both are medical procedures that reduce fat from specific body parts such as the stomach, thighs, arms and chin, but have some key differences. Results from both procedures are similar but it is how they are achieved that is different. Learn more about the benefits and potential disadvantages of each below.

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting may be best suited for those looking for a non-invasive medical procedure. The fat freezing (cryotherapy) procedure helps remove extra fat cells from underneath the skin without having to undergo surgery. The non-invasive surgery is performed with a special tool that clamps down and cools fat to freezing temperature. Since the procedure is non-invasive, very little downtime is necessary after the surgery.

Within days and weeks after treatment, the body naturally eliminates the frozen, dead fat cells. Whereas typically just one liposuction procedure is necessary, CoolSculpting will require a few sessions over several weeks to see complete results. If cost is a factor in determining whether you will move forward with CoolSculpting or liposuction, the average price for CoolSculpting is between $2,000-$4,000 which may vary depending on the size of the area being treated.

Liposuction

Unlike CoolSculpting, liposuction is an invasive surgery that involves cutting, stitching and the use of anesthesia. Candidates for liposuction include those in good health, without conditions that could complicate surgery. A small incision is made to allow the surgeon to vacuum fat out of a specific area of your body. Since this is an invasive surgery, recovery time will take a few days. You likely will need to wear tight compression garments to help reduce post-surgery swelling. After surgery you can also expect to see some contour irregularities as the remaining fat settles into position. It is also recommended to limit or exclude strenuous activity for up to four weeks following surgery.

As mentioned above, typically just one liposuction procedure is necessary to see complete results. Your results from liposuction will usually remain permanent as long as your weight does not fluctuate too often. When considering liposuction you must consider the cost as well as the average cost is $3,500.

Neither CoolSculpting or liposuction should be relied on as an overall weight-loss method or weight-loss alternative. If you are overweight, diet, exercise and bariatric surgery would be most helpful.

We Can Help with Your Weight Loss

After taking into consideration invasive vs. non-invasive surgery, cost and post-surgery recovery, you will be ready to make an appointment with a dermatologist. For those in or around the surrounding areas of Bloomington, Illinois who are ready to take the leap into CoolSulpting or liposuction, contact us. A dermatologist from Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute are ready to help you achieve your new look.