One of the first questions our patients often ask about body contouring is whether they should opt for a nonsurgical procedure like CoolSculpting or go with the surgical approach (liposuction). Let’s explore the differences between liposuction and CoolSculpting to help you make an informed decision.
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is surgery to remove excess fat from targeted body areas. Dr. Saltz makes tiny incisions and uses a thin cannula to remove unwanted fat.
Liposuction can treat both smaller and larger fat deposits, and it can treat nearly any area where you have excess fat. Common treatment areas are:
- Belly
- Thighs
- Hips
- Upper arms
- Back
Liposuction provides immediate, dramatic results. Although the incisions are tiny, liposuction is still a surgical procedure and requires some recovery time. You must wear a compression garment for a few weeks to help reduce swelling and bruising while protecting your incision sites.
Return-to-work time can vary from a few days to weeks, depending on how much fat you have removed and how strenuous your job is.
What Is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a noninvasive treatment that freezes fat cells to crystallize them. The fat cells break down over time, and your lymphatic system flushes them out.
CoolSculpting targets specific small or medium-sized areas with extra fat and is FDA-cleared for use in the following areas.
- Thighs
- Abdomen
- Flanks
- Upper arms
- Back (bra fat or back fat)
- Under the buttocks (banana roll)
- Submental area (under the chin)
- Submandibular area (beneath the jawline)
CoolSculpting results may start to appear within one to three months, but final results usually take around six months. You can expect to lose up to 20-24% of targeted fat cells in the treatment area, and you can schedule additional sessions for even more fat removal if desired.
Liposuction vs. CoolSculpting: Which Is Right for You?
The right choice depends on your goals, recovery timeline, and the size of your fat deposits.
Liposuction is the most effective way to remove a large amount of fat with immediate results. Although the recovery period is longer, liposuction offers more dramatic results than CoolSculpting.
On the other hand, CoolSculpting offers targeted fat removal with no incisions and no downtime.
Liposuction and CoolSculpting in Salt Lake and Park City, Utah
Ready to shape your body? Call us today at our Salt Lake office at 801-274-9500 or our Park City office at 435-655-6612 to book a consultation and discuss the best approach for you.
