Traditional liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves the insertion of a cannula under the skin to suction out fat cells. In contrast, non-invasive body shaping utilizes advanced techniques like freezing temperatures to break down fat cells without incisions, anesthesia, or downtime.

The Pros and Cons of Non-Invasive Lipo and Traditional Liposuction

When considering non-invasive and traditional liposuction and body shaping, weighing the pros and cons of each method is essential. You can find an appropriate method to achieve elegant body contouring depending on your unique body type and aesthetic goals.

Non-Invasive Lipo/Body Shaping

Non-invasive body shaping like CoolSculpting® Elite offers several notable advantages for patients looking to enhance their body shape without surgery. This method reduces the risk of complications like bruising and swelling that may be associated with more invasive procedures. Non-invasive body shaping also requires less recovery time, allowing patients to return to routine activities more quickly. 

At our San Diego practice, we have two CoolSculpting Elite machines that allow us to treat four areas at one time, providing quicker results on larger or multiple treatment areas. 

Despite the advantages of non-invasive body shaping, it is also important to consider potential drawbacks. One significant limitation is that the results may not be as immediately noticeable or dramatic as those achieved through traditional liposuction. While methods like CoolSculpting are effective in eliminating stubborn fat, it is most effective in treating small areas and small amounts of unwanted fat deposits. 

Non-invasive body shaping may also require multiple treatment sessions to attain the desired outcome, making the process more time-consuming and potentially expensive.

cosmetic laser dermatology coolsculpting before and after san diego ca

Traditional Liposuction

Traditional liposuction also has advantages that make it a suitable option for specific candidates. One of the primary benefits is that it provides more immediate and dramatic results, since it is possible to remove a larger amount of fat in a single treatment session. This makes it ideal for individuals with more extensive body sculpting needs or those who prefer a one-and-done procedure. Tumescent liposuction also offers more precise control and targeted fat removal, enabling a skilled dermatologist to sculpt and contour the body with greater accuracy and refinement, leading to aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

Because the procedure removes fat quickly, loose skin can sometimes be a problem. At our San Diego office, we also offer a proprietary treatment known as ThermiSculpt³ to remove fat and tighten the area under the chin and along the jawline. This procedure combines liposuction with an advanced radiofrequency skin tightening treatment known as ThermiTight®. By using these two procedures in tandem, we can achieve results comparable to a lower facelift without surgery. We also add fillers as needed to enhance the chin and jawline definition. 

Traditional liposuction also presents certain disadvantages that need to be taken into account. One of the main concerns is the higher risk of complications due to its more invasive nature. However, when this procedure is performed by a skilled, board-certified physician, those risks are significantly mitigated. There is typically a few days of recovery time after treatment, which patients will need to plan for. 

clderm liposculpture before and after in san diego, ca

Factors to Consider Between Non-Invasive Lipo/Body Shaping and Traditional Liposuction

Several factors must be considered to determine the most appropriate solution for each individual. These factors include the desired outcome, the amount and location of the fat to be removed, and the number of treatments that will be required. Personal preferences and unique body characteristics should also guide the decision-making process. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is essential in determining the best approach tailored to individual goals and expectations.

Patients may also consider innovative approaches that combine the benefits of non-invasive and traditional liposuction techniques. These hybrid procedures provide patients with a comprehensive and tailored solution for their body sculpting needs while minimizing the risks and drawbacks of each individual method. By incorporating non-invasive treatments such as CoolSculpting for smaller areas and using surgical liposuction for precise contouring, patients can often achieve optimal results.

Cosmetic Laser Dermatology’s proprietary treatment, Cool³, combines contouring treatments to achieve optimal shaping and fat removal. Some of the methods include:

A tailored approach allows for greater customization, enabling dermatologists to deliver highly personalized treatment plans that cater to each individual’s unique goals and desired outcomes.

CoolSculpting Elite and CoolTone to sculpt the abdomen by Leysin Fletcher, PA-C. After treatment abdomen is flatter and more contoured san diego ca

Comparing Results: Non-Invasive Lipo vs. Traditional Liposuction

For many patients, non-invasive liposuction/body shaping produces satisfactory and noticeable improvements in body contour, especially for those targeting smaller fat deposits. The gradual nature of fat reduction in non-invasive treatments allows the skin to adapt and retract more effectively, resulting in a smooth and natural-looking appearance.

Results may be more apparent with traditional liposuction as it can remove significant amounts of fat in one treatment, and precision fat removal can create a more custom shape. In exploring the results of non-invasive and traditional liposuction, it is essential to recognize that individual outcomes may vary based on factors such as the treatment area, number of sessions, body composition, and treatment method.

Before and after side image of liposculpture treatment on a female's abdomen performed by Dr. Butterwick at our San Diego medical spa

What Are the Recovery Times Like for Each Procedure?

Non-invasive liposuction methods typically involve shorter recovery periods, often allowing patients to resume daily activities on the same day as the procedure. Traditional liposuction generally necessitates some recovery time, which can span 3-5 days for most patients.

Choose Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego for All Your Body Contouring Needs

Cosmetic Laser Dermatology is proud to be San Diego’s #1 destination for beautiful skin for over 35 years. We also offer a wide range of body contouring treatments. 

With 80+ treatment options, 60+ laser and light devices, and 5+ proprietary procedures, our board-certified dermatologists can provide natural-looking results for every skin type and concern using treatments backed by science.

Our unique in-house research center has participated in over 300 clinical studies, ensuring we are on the brink of the latest cosmetic breakthroughs and have access to the latest devices months before they are available elsewhere.

 Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about non-invasive and traditional lipo treatments. 

Same Day Appointments Available

Book a consultation online

From March 25th to March 29th, you can take advantage of these exclusive offers at our exciting in-person event:

• Enjoy $100 off Juvéderm + Botox treatments (limited supply available) AND earn double Allē points when you combine Botox with Juvéderm fillers.
• Spend $1,000 on Juvéderm, Botox, or Coolsculpting and be automatically entered into a skincare raffle for a chance to win a luxurious SkinMedica basket (value $750).
• Receive up to $2,400 off CoolSculpting packages with our best pricing of the year.

Remember, you must be a member of Allē to participate. Schedule your appointment in advance to secure your spot and take advantage of these limited-time offers and rebates!