Fat Reduction Treatments

We’re taking a deeper dive into two of the most common fat reduction treatments available, Liposuction and CoolSculpting.

Liposuction

Liposuction is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures, with over 235,000 procedures done yearly in the United States. It is a surgical approach to removing excess, unwanted fat and improve body contouring. For years, Liposuction was the only way to remove those fatty deposits and reshape the body.

CoolSculpting

While Liposcution is still one of the most popular aesthetic surgical procedures, there are now less invasive options available. “The new techniques are non-invasive and they don’t involve surgery or anesthesia, so there’s really no downtime. It’s walk-in, walk-out, and the amount of pain involved is minimal,” says Robert Weiss, MD, Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (FAAD) and Maryland Dermatology, Laser, Skin & Vein Institute. Dr. Weiss was a key leader and researcher of the CoolSculpting procedure. He conducted clinical trials at his office in Hunt Valley, MD for FDA approval.

CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis to specifically target fat cells without damaging the skin or surrounding tissue.  The body naturally disposes of the fat cells and results emerge 4-6 weeks post procedure.

“Common areas we treat are the abdomen, under the bra line, and the inner thigh,” Dr. Weiss adds. At present, the FDA-cleared treatment areas include: abdomen, flanks, thighs, submental (chin), underneath and buttock (banana roll), upper arm, bra bulge and back fat. An added benefit of CoolSculpting is the different size applicators for different body areas, so there is more patient customization. 

Healthy Lifestyle

While both Liposuction and CoolSculpting help remove pockets of fat, neither are a weight loss alternative. “These non-invasive methods to remove fat are really for stubborn pockets of fat. They’re really not a method of weight loss, we still recommend proper diet and exercise.” States Dr. Weiss. It is important to note that both CoolSculpting and Liposuction are not FDA-cleared for an excess of skin and laxity. 

Interested in CoolSculpting and other non-surgical body contouring procedures? Anne Arundel Dermatology has offices that can help patients achieve their non-invasive body contouring goals.

Visit our website or call us at 443.351.3376.