Laser Fat Removal vs CoolSculpting: Process, Candidate, and Risks

Laser fat removal and CoolSculpting are two popular cosmetic procedures that target specific problem areas for people who are trying to get a leaner, more toned appearance. Both of these procedures target the same body area, fatty deposits known as bulges. But they do so in different ways by targeting different parts of the body and different types of patients. Therefore, before you choose one or the other, it’s important to understand how they differ.

Let’s take a look and compare the basics, ideal candidates and risks of laser fat removal vs CoolSculpting.

What is Laser Fat Removal?

Laser fat removal or laser lipolysis is a type of non-invasive method of body sculpting. In this procedure, small fat deposits are removed using the heat of targeted laser lights. It is a permanent fat removal process, in general, is much less painful, has a low risk of skin loosening and recovery is fast compared to traditional liposuction.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting, or cryolipolysis, is a type of plastic surgery in Dubai where excess fat in stubborn areas is removed. In this process, unlike laser fat removal where heat is used, it is required to freeze the fat cells, and then kill and break them down in the process.

Like laser fat removal, this too is a non-invasive procedure, which means that it does not require any incision, anesthesia, or any instrument insertion in the body. Used to reduce fat from a target area of the body that is challenging with mere diet and exercise.

Candidates for Laser fat removal

In general, laser lipo can be done on anyone who has a general fitness level and their current body weight is near their ideal weight range.

However, keep in mind that it is not a weight-loss treatment, so, if you are expecting a major body thinning then this procedure is not meant for you. On the other hand, if you are just looking to reduce fat or remove fat from a target body area, it will work great for you.

That said, there are still some conditions where you shouldn’t undergo laser fat removal like:

  • You’re pregnant
  • You’re breastfeeding
  • You’re menstruating heavily
  • Have a pacemaker or defibrillator
  • Is prone to keloid scarring/abnormal tissue growth
  • You have cancer
  • You have heart disease or heart conditions
  • You take insulin for diabetes
  • You have liver disease
  • You have multiple sclerosis
  • You have a vascular condition

In addition to these, it’s advised not to go for laser fat removal if you have had surgery recently or take anticoagulants or other medications that cause light sensitivity.

Candidates for CoolSculpting

The ideal candidate for CoolSculpting is more or less like that for laser lipo only, however the major difference is that the target fat area should be stubborn fat that simply cannot be treated with diet or exercise. It’s noteworthy that it’s not meant for anyone who has obesity and is looking to lose significant weight in one go.

That said, let’s look at what are the various conditions when you should avoid or simply shouldn’t opt for CoolSculpting:

  • You have a clotting disorder
  • You have cold urticaria
  • You have cryoglobulinemia
  • You currently have a hernia or have had treatment in recent times
  • You have infected or open wounds
  • You suffer from a neuropathic condition (diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia)
  • You sometimes have numbness or lack of feeling in the skin
  • You are using a pacemaker or defibrillator
  • You have paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
  • You are afraid of poor circulation in or around the treatment area
  • You have Raynaud’s disease
  • You have scar tissue in the treatment area
  • You have skin conditions like rashes, psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, etc.

Just like laser fat reduction, for CoolSculpting also, it has been suggested to not take this surgery if you’ve recently had surgery or are taking anticoagulant medication.

Risks of Laser fat removal

Risks or more possible side-effects of laser lipo include minor pain or numbness in the treatment area. Some may also see discolored skin or burning under the skin. Other issues are:

  • Getting a scar tissue under the skin
  • Getting infection at the site
  • Issue of blood clots
  • Observing skin necrosis (tissue death) at the incision site

If any of these last for multiple days or feel severe, it is recommended to consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Risks of CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting also has some concerning side effects however rare they are:

  • You may feel a pinching or tugging sensation during treatment
  • The target body area may ache
  • May observe temporary skin sensitivity
  • The target area can swell
  • May observe some  redness and bruising

In addition to these, a rather little-known side effect may disturb some people called paradoxical adipose hyperplasia. In this case, the fat cells, instead of being destroyed, swell and the site appears bigger.

Conclusion

There are various ways to get rid of fat. However, sometimes diet and exercise are not enough and we look into plastic surgery. Both Laser fat removal and ColdSculpting work great. If you are opting for either plastic surgery in Dubai, we’d recommend looking into Kaya Skin Clinic. Their dermatologists, staff, and infrastructure are best in class. 

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