CoolSculpting and SmartLipo have emerged as two of the leading fat reduction procedures since they are inherently safer and more efficient than traditional surgical procedures. Both procedures involve little downtime and the risk of side effects or post-operative complications is minimal. However, there are a few key differences between the two procedures that set them apart from each other. Patients who are confused between these two or more body contouring procedures may review the differences and judge which one may be more suited to fulfill their needs and expectations.
How the Two Procedures Work
CoolSculpting is a 100 percent non-surgical procedure, while SmartLipo involves minor incisions and minimally invasive techniques. For patients whose goal is to achieve an improved body contour in a completely risk-free and non-surgical manner, they are well suited for CoolSculpting. A growing number of patients are increasingly asking for CoolSculpting to make their body smooth and shapely.
The effectiveness of CoolSculpting is the best for patients with localized fat deposits that will not go away only with diet and exercise. Both women and men can benefit from this procedure as long as they are looking for a more toned and contoured appearance. Candidates who are close to their ideal body weight may respond better to CoolSculpting.
SmartLipo may be more suited for patients who are not averse to the idea of undergoing a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The goal of SmartLipo, just like CoolSculpting, is to achieve enhanced body contours. It works best for patients looking at removal of unwanted fat cells in specific areas of the body. Smart Lipo is less invasive compared to liposuction, but it cannot be compared with CoolSculpting, which is an entirely different, non-invasive technology.
SmartLipo involves incisions to remove the fat cells, and usually requires local anesthesia. CoolSculpting does not involve any anesthetic because it is an entirely painless procedure. During CoolSculpting, a suction system is used to gently draw the targeted area into an appropriate position between two cooling panels. It does not cause any damage to the skin tissue. The patient is fully awake and may enjoy watching a movie, while the procedure freezes away stubborn fat cells.
Results
Both CoolSculpting and SmartLipo produce fairly predictable results up to the realistic expectations of the patients. However, CoolSculpting is comparatively safer and involves little or no risk at all. In the case of SmartLipo, the results are more immediate and as soon as the body heals, the patient can enjoy an improved figure and more defined contours.
In the case of CoolSculpting, full results will be visible only several weeks after the procedure. The fat cells damaged by freezing take time to become eliminated naturally from the body. The advantage is that gradual fat reduction appears more natural, and patients can enjoy the results without making it obvious that they have undergone a cosmetic procedure.