Cryolipolysis vs. Liposuction: What's the Difference?

Reviewed by: dr. Gwendy Aniko, Sp.B.P.R.E, Subsp.M.O.(K)

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is one way to maintain an ideal body shape and weight. However, cases of stubborn fat accumulation in the body require treatment, such as liposuction and cryolipolysis. Neither is a weight loss solution, but rather body contouring to achieve a more ideal body shape.

Differences Between Liposuction and Cryolipolysis

American plastic surgeon dr. Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS, explains that the goals of liposuction and cryolipolysis are the same, but the processes and results are different.

Liposuction is a procedure that uses an invasive method to remove fat from an area of ​​the body. Before the procedure, the patient is anesthetized, then the plastic surgeon makes a small incision in the marked area and inserts a cannula, which then removes the fat from the body. The back, arms, hips, abdomen, and thighs are the most popular areas for liposuction.

Cryolipolysis, on the other hand, is a non-invasive procedure using a vacuum device to freeze and destroy fat cells, as they are more susceptible to cold. Fat cells frozen in extreme cold temperatures are slowly removed from the body over the months following treatment. This treatment is suitable for those who prefer less invasive procedures but want maximum results.

Why is Liposuction So Popular?

Although cryolipolysis doesn't require incisions, why is liposuction still a popular body contouring procedure? The answer is because of its effective and immediate results. According to the 2024 ASPS Procedural Statistics Report, liposuction is a popular plastic surgery procedure, offering instant and satisfying results in a single procedure.

Unlike liposuction, cryolipolysis typically requires one to three sessions for optimal results in the same area, with sessions spaced approximately 6-8 weeks apart. The number of sessions depends on the amount of fat to be removed, the location, and the body's response. Some patients may require up to four sessions for larger areas like the abdomen or thighs.

A plastic and reconstructive surgeon from the US, dr. Kristy Hamilton, said, "Liposuction always provides more dramatic results in fat removal. You'll achieve beautiful body shape and contours, as well as significant volume loss."

dr. Josef Hadeed also explained that liposuction can remove more fat than cryolipolysis, allowing the body to be sculpted to achieve the patient's desired results. This is because liposuction directly removes fat, unlike cryolipolysis, which relies on the body's natural excretion process. Therefore, the results of liposuction are far more optimal than cryolipolysis, which requires repeated procedures.

LAMS and Cryolipolysis at Akasia 365mc

Which procedure is best for you? According to dr. Kristy Hamilton, patients should first consider their goals and, most importantly, consult an experienced plastic surgeon to provide a diagnosis and advice on the procedure.

You can find LAMS (Local Anesthetic Minimally Invasive Liposuction) and cryolipolysis liposuction at akasia 365mc. LAMS is the number one minimally invasive liposuction method for local anesthesia (liposuction) in South Korea. LAMS at akasia 365mc is performed only by experienced, certified specialists from Korea. LAMS provides instant results in a single procedure with minimal downtime, resulting in faster healing. Visit akasia 365mc Body Aesthetic Clinic in Jakarta or Surabaya, or contact our call center for detailed information about LAMS and cryolipolysis treatments.

Reference:

American Society of Plastic Surgery - Cryolipolysis vs liposuction: Understanding the difference