If you’re looking for a way to eliminate fat without the inconvenient pain and discomfort associated with liposuction, several varieties of noninvasive procedures are available. These treatments are easy to access, but the different types of noninvasive methods out there can make it overwhelming when it comes down to making a choice.
Since you’re reading this, you’re likely already searching for a noninvasive way to reduce stubborn fat. First off, you should know the four major types of nonsurgical fat reduction methods: laser lipolysis, cryolipolysis, radiofrequency lipolysis, and ultrasound lipolysis machines. Injection lipolysis treatments like Kybella can also provide excellent results, but these are mainly restricted to use on the chin area.
This article will explore two of the most popular brands under the cryolipolysis and radiofrequency lipolysis categories: CoolSculpting and Vanquish. Read on to learn more about how they work, their price points, and, most importantly, the results they provide.
Key Differences Between the CoolSculpting and Vanquish Methods
Neither of these non-invasive cosmetic procedures require incisions or anesthesia, unlike more invasive alternatives like liposuction. Both processes also permanently induce fat cells to die in quite distinct ways.
Cryolipolysis takes advantage of the principle that lipid-rich fat cells freeze more quickly than surrounding water-rich cells, which allows for the selective killing of adipose (fat) tissue. Hence, CoolSculpting treatments use flat tools called applicators to apply targeted blasts of cold temperatures that freeze and destroy fat cells over time.
Conversely, radiofrequency-based machines like Vanquish exploit the higher water content and impedance of fat cells. Because fat cells have higher impedances, or resistance to heat, they can be selectively targeted with thermal energy. The skin and surrounding tissue, meanwhile, allow radiofrequency energy to pass through without causing any damage. Meanwhile, fat in the treated area is h
Notably, Vanquish does not require the machine or any panels to come into contact with the treated body part’s skin, unlike with CoolSculpting.
Once the fat cells have been sufficiently exposed to either the extreme cold or hot temperatures, the body will process them as waste through the lymphatic system. A patient’s body continues to remove these cells from the body over the following weeks and months.
Efficiency Rates of Cryolipolysis and Radiofrequency Lipolysis
Studies conducted by the Food and Drug Administration estimate average fat reductions of 20 to 25 percent in areas treated with CoolSculpting and 25 to 30 percent for areas treated with Vanquish.
CoolSculpting treatments generally require that a patient receive up to four treatments, although this number varies according to patient needs and body characteristics. Sessions usually last between 30 and 60 minutes. Each Vanquish session lasts about 45 minutes, and patients also typically undergo multiple treatments to achieve optimal results. Anywhere between four and six sessions are generally required for radiofrequency-based fat procedures.
Price Comparison: CoolSculpting and Vanquish
Comparing prices between noninvasive procedures becomes difficult due to the need to factor in costs for multiple sessions. CoolSculpting tends to be more expensive per session but could end up being cheaper because patients generally require fewer total treatments.
On average, a CoolSculpting treatment will cost $1,481, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The CoolSculpting website estimates average treatment prices fall between $2,000 and $4,000. Smaller body parts can be treated for under $1,000, whereas larger areas like the stomach may cost quite more.
One Vanquish session will be cheaper on average than CoolSculpting, but remember to factor in the number of anticipated treatments when calculating total costs. Single sessions can be as cheap as $650, but on average, a full treatment will fall in the $2,000 and $3,000 range.
Side Effects May Vary
Vanquish does not really have any pressing side effects and comes with little to no downtime. Due to the heat exposure, however, you may see that your skin gains a pinkish tone, and you might sweat. The physician will have to reposition the device to stop these effects from becoming too pronounced. Patients can also pull a safety cord to end their treatment if it becomes too unbearable immediately.
CoolSculpting can potentially cause slight nerve pain, and most patients will contend with redness, swelling, and bruising in the treated area for a few days after each treatment. One rare side effect associated with CoolSculpting can cause the targeted body part’s skin to grow, rather than shrink in the days after the procedure. Although it happens on an exceedingly rare basis, this condition is quite serious and requires surgical intervention to correct it.