The Benefits of Liposuction vs. Non-Surgical Fat Reduction
Posted July 25, 2024 in Liposuction
When diet and exercise fail, many people begin to look into the best ways to reduce stubborn pockets of fat on their bodies. While non-surgical fat loss methods can be successful for some, liposuction surgery is often more effective. However, both surgical and non-surgical body contouring treatments have advantages and disadvantages. This blog explains the liposuction process vs. non-surgical laser liposuction and how they differ.
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Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Fat Reduction: Which Is Right For You?
No matter what anyone tells you, it is impossible to use cardio to “spot reduce” troublesome areas of unwanted fat on your body. Exercise and a healthy diet can help get your body into shape, firming and strengthening muscles, but sometimes even the fittest athletes often have places on their bodies where the fat refuses to budge, no matter how much they work out. In this blog, we look at two popular ways to eliminate excess fat, SculpSure® and liposuction, and some of the benefits of each so you can choose which method is right for you.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical fat removal procedure performed using either general anesthesia or local anesthesia. Small incisions are made in the area targeted for treatment, and a thin tube (called a cannula) is inserted to loosen excess fat and suction it out of your body. The incisions are closed, and you are on your way to recovery.
SculpSure®
For those looking for a non-surgical treatment to slim and tone their bodies, SculpSure® fits the bill. It is a non-invasive treatment that uses a diode laser to deliver heat energy under your skin. The heat from the laser is hot enough to destroy the fat cells without being too hot and affecting the other tissues in the area. SculpSure® also has a built-in cooling mechanism that keeps your skin cool, minimizing any discomfort during the treatment.
The fat cells destroyed during the treatment are processed and flushed out of your body via your lymphatic system, leaving you with a smoother, more defined figure.
Comparing Liposuction and SculpSure®
Number of Treatments
Liposuction is designed to eliminate targeted fat in one procedure, so most patients don’t need additional treatments in the same area. However, if you gain weight in the same place over time, you may need another liposuction procedure to address that.
SculpSure® patients may achieve their desired results after one treatment; however, most need multiple sessions focused on the “problem area” before seeing the refined results they’re looking for. The total number of treatments varies depending on how much fat you want removed and your expected outcomes.
Recovery
Liposuction recovery requires downtime to rest and heal after the procedure. After your surgery, there will be noticeable swelling and bruising, as well as soreness around the treatment area. You will need to take one to two weeks off work to heal and avoid strenuous exercise for up to six weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.
SculpSure® is a non-invasive treatment, so there are no requirements for downtime or restrictions after your procedure. No anesthesia is necessary, and each session only takes a few minutes, so you can be on your way and back to your regular routine in no time.
Results
Your liposuction results are typically visible immediately after surgery, though swelling may make them difficult to see. It can take up to six months for all of the residual swelling to dissipate, but you should be able to see most of your results within four to six weeks after surgery.
Because SculpSure® relies on your body’s natural processes to eliminate the excess fat cells, it takes a bit longer to see results. After six weeks, you should see some changes in your shape, with your final results visible about three or four months after treatment.
Candidates
If you are seeking to remove a significant amount of excess fat, liposuction is usually the better option. SculpSure® is better suited for patients who need a lesser amount of fat removed and are looking to refine their physique with smaller tweaks.
Learn More About Body Contouring in Coral Gables
For all those looking for a way to eliminate excess fat and achieve the slender, sculpted body of their dreams, body contouring at Careaga Plastic Surgery is the answer. Whether you choose non-surgical SculpSure® treatments or opt for surgical liposuction, our surgeons are skilled and experienced in creating the curves you desire. To schedule a consultation, call our office at (305) 929-0445 or complete the online contact form.