Laser Lipo vs CoolSculpting

Comparing Laser Lipo and CoolSculpting Procedures

Laser lipo and CoolSculpting procedures are body contouring treatments that remove body fat. While these procedures share certain qualities, there are some differences between the two that patients should be aware of. 

 

What Happens During Laser Liposuction?

Laser liposuction, also known as laser lipolysis or laser lipo, is a minimally invasive body contouring procedure that melts away fat beneath the skin. 

 

Doctors begin laser lipo by applying local anesthetic to the area where they will make a small incision. This makes enough room for the laser enter to enter and melt fat away. 

 

After using the laser to melt the fat, the doctor will insert a tube to suck out the newly liquefied fat. When the procedure is complete, the doctor will then close and cover the site of the incision.

 

Laser lipo typically takes about 1 hour to perform, per treated area.

 

What Happens During CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is the brand name for cryolipolysis, a non-invasive body contouring treatment. CoolSculpting freezes fat cells with a controlled temperature device.

 

The freezing temperature acts to kill fat cells beneath your skin. Your body will then break down some of the remaining fat cells in the treated area. CoolSculpting avoids damaging your skin, as it does not require an incision. No anesthetic is needed, either.

 

CoolSculpting requires about 30 to 60 minutes, per treated area.

 

CoolSculpting vs Laser Lipo Safety

Coolsculpting and laser lipo are generally safe, effective treatments for removing fat. However,  like most medical procedures, there are some risks involved.

 

CoolSculpting Risks

CoolSculpting is a very low-risk, noninvasive procedure, as it does not require any surgery.

 

Some common side effects of CoolSculpting are:

 

  • Discomfort
  • Mild stinging
  • Redness
  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Temporary sensitivity

 

In rare cases, some patients’ fat cells expand instead of shrinking away. If this happens, patients will need to correct this problem with traditional liposuction.

 

Laser Liposuction Risks

Laser lipo has more risks than CoolSculpting because it is technically classified as a minor surgical procedure. However, it is far less dangerous in comparison to traditional liposuction.

 

Common side effects of laser lipo include:

 

  • Discomfort, mild pain, or numbness
  • Loose or lumpy skin
  • Redness or discolored skin
  • Temporary burning sensation after the treatment

 

More serious but rare risks of laser lipo include infection, blood clots, and necrosis at the incision site. If you experience any of these problems, consult a doctor immediately. 

 

CoolSculpting vs Laser Lipo Cost

The cost of CoolSculpting and laser lipo procedures are similar, although CoolSculpting tends to cost less. Because both of these treatments are considered cosmetic procedures, they are not covered by health insurance.

 

Cost of Laser Lipo

On average, the cost of laser lipo can run about $2,500 to $5,500 per treated area. This wide range in cost can be attributed to the treatment area, as well as where you live and your provider.

 

Cost of CoolSculpting

The average cost of a CoolSculpting treatment is slightly less than laser lipo, ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 for at least 2 areas. However, CoolSculpting may require multiple sessions before patients achieve their desired results.

 

Laser Lipo vs. CoolSculpting Expected Recovery Time

Laser Lipo Recovery Time

Although laser liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure, it is still a minor surgical procedure. As a result, patients need more time to recover — usually several days. Patients will need to avoid activities that could strain the treated area.

 

CoolSculpting Recovery Time

Because CoolSculpting is noninvasive, patients do not need recovery time. They can return to their daily activities and work after a treatment session.

 

CoolSculpting vs Laser Lipo Results

To achieve the best results, CoolSculpting and laser lipo are recommended for people who are either at or near their ideal weight. Body contouring is not recommended for patients who want to remove a lot of fat. Body contouring procedures are aimed at removing small, stubborn pockets of fat that no amount of exercise can seem to get rid of.

 

Laser Lipo Results

The results from laser liposuction are more immediate because the procedure physically removes fat (and more of it compared to CoolSculpting). Initially, there may be some swelling that makes it harder to see at first, but patients will see long-term changes after the swelling goes down. 

 

CoolSculpting Results

Since CoolSculpting freezes fat cells instead of directly removing fat, the results are not as visible right away. CoolSculpting results take more time and may require more than one treatment session.

 

How to Choose the Right Body Contouring Procedure

Choosing the right body contouring procedure depends on your needs and goals.

 

At Nashville Skin Company, we will discuss your concerns as well as the pros and cons of each treatment to help you decide which option is right for you.

 

To start that discussion, contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation.