Surgical liposuction is one of the first things that come to mind when looking for an effective way to get rid of stubborn fat. When diet and exercise are not enough, many people turn to this procedure to remove fat deposits (commonly in the abdomen, back, hips, and thighs) and contour their body.
Liposuction delivers more dramatic results when compared to nonsurgical procedures. While there is no denying about the benefits of liposuction, not everyone is willing to go under the knife for fat removal.
Hesitations also come from the number of risks involved, including swelling, bruising, contour irregularities, and longer recovery time. This is also why an alternative like CoolSculpting is growing in popularity, which promises to reduce fat without cuts and incision.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved aesthetic device that uses Cryolipolysis or controlled cooling technology to destroy and kill the fat cells for good. It features a number of CoolAdvantage applicators that can target different areas of the body such as belly, arms, thighs, and chin.
It can also treat smaller areas like knee and bra fat. CoolSculpting clinics in Utah note that this non-invasive procedure uses a vacuum pressure that draws the fat (tissues) between the cooling panels, which triggers the process of apoptosis or natural cell death.
Once frozen or crystallized, the fat cells will be cleared through the lymphatic system and processed as waste in the liver. This can then reduce the thickness of the fat layer.
Are there side effects?
As CoolSculpting is a nonsurgical procedure, it does not require cuts, stitches, and anesthesia. It is also an outpatient procedure, with a session that can take for about an hour.
Side effects like skin sensitivity may be present, but this usually resolves within a few weeks. There is also minimal to no recovery time, as there is no damage to the skin and surrounding tissues.
Is it effective?
Studies suggest that CoolSculpting can remove 25% of fat cells in any part of the body. It is also good to know that once the fat cells are treated and frozen, they are gone for good and will never return.
This also means that you don’t need to worry about the fat cells transferring or migrating to other areas of the body. A healthy lifestyle can help maintain the results. Another good thing about CoolSculpting is that you may be able to see the results of the treatment after just a few weeks.
This is not the same as liposuction, as the full effects may only be noticeable after a few months. You should also know, however, that you’ll need a few sessions of CoolSculpting to see desirable results. This can also depend on the number of areas you want to treat.
Is it right for me?
Just like liposuction, CoolSculpting is not a treatment for obesity. It is ideal for people of normal weight, but have some stubborn or excess fats (resistant to diet and exercise) in certain areas of the body. Non-invasive fat reduction treatments might also be an option if you are not a good candidate for liposuction or if surgery could complicate an existing condition.
CoolSculpting is a great alternative to liposuction, especially if you want to avoid any cuts or stitches. Just be sure to talk to a certified aesthetic doctor to learn more about this procedure or to find out if you’re a good candidate for CoolSculpting.
