Get the real deal on beauty treatments—real doctors, real reviews, and real photos with real results.Here's how we earn your trust.
Hello, Thank you for your question. CoolSculpting is a non-invasive way to permanently reduce fat cells. It will remove 25-30% of the fat cells in the treated areas, and then it will take 3-4 months to see the full results. You will have some swelling and mild discomfort after the treatments, and possibly some numbness. Lipo may allow you to see a greater reduction of fat, depending on the area and what needs to be done. It will have a small amount of downtime, and the possibility of scaring. However you will see the results a little quicker than with CoolSculpting. It would be best to consult with a local physician to determine which treatment would be best suited for you. Good luck!
CoolSculpting has FDA approval for fat reduction since 2010. CoolSculpting freezes the fat cells. Fat cells are more susceptible to damage by freezing than the other cells, (nerve, vessel, bone, etc.), around them. The fat cells die via a process called apoptosis, (programmed cell death). The number of fat cells are therefore reduced. This happens over a period of time, so the body is not overwhelmed with dead fat cells. The body will take these cells up, process them and excrete them, just as any other cell. The remnants are filtered through the liver, and then excreted eventually via stool. We have had good experience with the skin snapping back. Each individual is different. We usually see about a 25% reduction with CoolSculpting. Liposuction gives more dramatic results, but is more invasive. See an experienced CoolSculpting practice, they will determine if you are a candidate. Moreover, would also consider seeing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, who can give advice on both CoolSculpting and Liposuction.
Coolsculpting is an excellent form of non-invasive fat reduction forthe right patient. Some applicators take 1 or 2 hours but the new advantageapplicators take only 35 minutes and have significantly less risk for delayedonset pain (especially in the abdomen). Results are seen at 2 months andtypically 1-3 treatments will be necessary on each area to achieve idealresults. The number of treatments depends on the amount of fat there and thepatient's goals. There is not downtime and the results can be impressivein the right patient. We also use the Zimmer Z-wave for improved patientcomfort and added results. The best candidates are those who are in prettygood shape with areas of stubborn fat that won't go away no matter what.My best,Sheila Nazarian, MD, MMMBeverly Hills, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Thedecision to have CoolSculpting or liposuction usually depends on severalfactors. Liposuction removes more fat than CoolSculpting, but it is an invasiveprocedure that requires some time off to recover. CoolSculpting usually reducesfat by about 20 to 25% in a single treatment, and because it is noninvasive, itdoes not require any downtime. You can immediately return to work or otherdaily activities. Another difference is how fast you want to see results.CoolSculpting results emerge gradually as fat cells die and are removed fromthe body. It can take about 4 months to see the final results. Liposuctionproduces visible results once the swelling and bruising resolve within a coupleof weeks. Therefore, the decision is really up to you depending on yourpriorities. There is no single "better" choice. Consult with aboard-certified plastic surgeon to fully explore the pros and cons of eachprocedure to help you reach a final decision.
The truth is, both CoolSculpting and liposuction can be great for treating excess fat in this area. It all depends on the patient, what they hope to achieve, and what will work best for their body type while providing the lowest risk. For some patients that's non-invasive CoolSculpting, while others will have their goals better met with liposuction. The best way to know for sure is to have a consultation with a highly experienced, board certified plastic surgeon who has a significant familiarity with both liposuction and CoolSculpting.
