Smart Lipo vs. CoolSculpting

Weight loss is a metabolic process that requires burning more calories than you consume. Unfortunately, there is no way to direct where your body stores fat. Certain areas of the body retain fat that resists diet and exercise.

Genetics and age may leave the body with stubborn pockets of fat such as bulges, double chins, or love handles that persist even after we achieve our ideal weight and maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI). One of the only ways to remove persistent areas of fat is with the cosmetic procedure known as liposuction.

Today, two of the most sought-after fat reduction methods are Smart Lipo, known medically as laser lipolysis, and Coolsculpting, known medically as cryolipolysis. They are safe and low-risk medical procedures for the purpose of fat removal.

Your greatest chance at success is to educate yourself about the advantages of each procedure. Armed with that knowledge, you'll be able to select the right medical provider and liposuction method.

What is Smart Lipo?

Smart Lipo uses laser energy to liquefy fat beneath the skin, making extraction and suction easier. It requires small incisions and involves less force than traditional liposuction.

Laser Lipo is lower risk and safer than traditional liposuction or plastic surgery because it only requires local anesthesia rather than sedation or general anesthesia. It also stimulates skin regeneration through collagen production. Laser liposuction has been in use by plastic surgeons for over a decade.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting uses extreme cold to kill subcutaneous fat cells within the treatment area. The procedure is done topically without incisions. The technician uses a specially designed applicator that delivers cold air across the targeted area.

This body contouring procedure is specifically designed to only harm fat cells in order to eliminate excess fat. Skin and other tissue are unaffected. As the cells die, they are absorbed by the body, filtered, and expelled as waste material.

Who Are These Treatments For?

Any adult with persistent areas of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise is a good candidate for liposuction. Ideal candidates are in good health and free of significant medical complications.

Liposuction is only appropriate for patients near their ideal weight who want to eliminate stubborn fat. You must have a BMI around 35 to ensure that you have enough fat for extraction.

Smart Lipo vs. CoolSculpting

Number of Treatments Required

Smart Lipo requires just one treatment that can be completed in one office visit. Depending on the treated area, the procedure takes about one hour.

CoolSculpting can also be performed in one office visit. and the procedure time varies based on the number of areas being treated. Most patients require one treatment, but some see better results with a second procedure.

Side Effects

Smart Lipo involves incisions and the immediate removal of unwanted fat. Side effects include swelling, bruising, tenderness, and discomfort, and should resolve within a few days after treatment.

CoolSculpting's side effects include discomfort during the procedure, pain, temporary skin sensitivity, swelling, and bruising. Again, though, most side effects are quite mild and quickly subside.

Both Smart Lipo and CoolSculpting are FDA-approved. Still, make sure you receive treatment from a board-certified physician such as those at Bella Medspa!

Effectiveness

Smart Lipo is highly effective. By promoting skin regeneration, it tightens the overlying tissue where the fat was removed. Breaking down the fat allows for lower levels of suction and smaller tubes for the extraction. This reduces post-procedure bruising and swelling.

CoolSculpting is also highly effective. Results take longer to show, but the lack of downtime and total non-invasiveness create a gradual weight reduction that allows the skin to contract.

Results and Duration of Results

Smart Lipo's effects are permanent as long as you maintain a proper diet and exercise plan. The treatment's effects are present within one week, and your shape may continue to improve for up to six months as skin and other tissues settle.

CoolSculpting's effects appear within three weeks and are fully apparent within four months. The fat cells continue dying after the procedure and are filtered out through your body.

Recovery Times

Smart Lipo is a relatively simple outpatient procedure that only requires local anesthesia. Patients generally recover within two to four days. Your doctor will likely direct you to wear a compression garment and avoid strenuous activity for three weeks.

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that can be done in your doctor's office. You can immediately resume normal and unrestricted activity.

Cost

The cost of both procedures will vary based on your geographic location, the treatment site, the amount of fat being removed, and your physician's expertise. The average CoolSculpting treatment costs $2,000 to $4,000.

Which is Right for You?

You'll need to consult with a trained and qualified technician such as those at Bella Medspa to determine whether Smart Lipo or CoolSculpting is your best option.

Both procedures are permanent. Those looking for more immediate results are probably better off undergoing Smart Lipo. CoolScultping is preferable for patients who prefer to avoid invasive surgical procedures that require anesthesia and a brief recovery period.