Many women and men who visit my plastic surgery center often ask me to distinguish between body sculpting treatment and procedures. There are several major differences between CoolSculpting and liposuction, including cost, recovery time, and procedure. Here are some frequently asked questions that clients at our Las Vegas and Henderson offices often wonder about.
What happens during the procedure?
CoolSculpting: This procedure is non-invasive and doesn’t require anesthesia. We apply a specially designed cooling applicator to the area of unwanted fat. This technology extracts energy from the underlying fat tissue without impacting other tissues. The applicator cup uses a gentle vacuum pressure to draw the tissue between the cooling panels.
Liposuction: This is an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia. I insert a narrow tube through a small incision and vacuum the fat layer below the skin.
How long does it take?
CoolSculpting: The procedure involves no anesthesia, incisions, or needles, and takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the size and number of areas treated. You can relax during your treatment–read a book, listen to music, take a nap, or work on your laptop.
Liposuction: The surgery takes about 2 to 5 hours, depending on the area size and whether it’s combined with other procedures.
How much does it cost?
CoolSculpting: Coolsculpting starts at $650. This price could increase based on areas treated.
Liposuction: Price is also dependent on areas treated. Cost is usually around $2,499 for the first area and $999 for each additional area. There are added costs for use of the skin-tightening laser and procedure room fees. When looking at costs, make sure to also consider your doctor’s experience, skill level, and other important factors.
How many procedures are involved?
CoolSculpting: You may want more than one treatment to achieve even better results. I will help you determine number of treatments and frequency.
Liposuction: Only one procedure is needed to tone skin and remove fat pockets.
What is the recovery process?
CoolSculpting: You’ll have zero downtime with this procedure. You can return to work and normal activities immediately afterwards.
Liposuction: Drainage may occur over the first 48 hours. It may take up to 6 weeks to feel completely normal again. Most patients can return to school or a non-strenuous job in 3 to 7 days. Those with strenuous jobs may need up to 2 weeks for recovery. Learn more about recovery.
When will I see results?
CoolSculpting: Your body’s normal metabolic processes will gradually flush away treated fat cells without affecting the surrounding tissue. Patients typically notice slimming in treated areas in 2 to 4 months.
Liposuction: You’ll see optimal results around the 3-month mark. Healthy diet and regular exercise are important to maintain your results.
I welcome you to request a complimentary consultation with me in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV. I will help you choose the body contouring option that is best suited to your cosmetic goals and recovery time.