When it comes to achieving a chiselled body silhouette, modern aesthetics offers a plethora of options which can make the decision of which procedure to undergo both exciting and overwhelming. That said, among these options, liposuction and non-surgical body contouring procedures have emerged as popular choices.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into the world of liposuction and non-surgical body contouring and compare various factors such as effectiveness, recovery time, cost, potential side effects, longevity, and suitability.
By having this information in hand, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which procedure is right for you.
Effectiveness: How Well Do They Work?
Liposuction: As one of the most common cosmetic surgeries, liposuction has a long-standing reputation for effectiveness. It works by physically removing fat cells from specific parts of the body, resulting in immediate and noticeable changes to the body contour. For context, liposuction can be highly targeted and is particularly effective at eliminating stubborn pockets of fat that diet and exercise cannot eliminate.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring: Non-surgical procedures, including CoolSculpting, SculpSure, and UltraShape, utilise various technologies like freezing, heating, or ultrasound to destroy fat cells non-invasively. As such, the results are generally more subtle than liposuction and may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired outcome. However, these treatments can also be effective for targeting stubborn fat pockets, and the gradual changes can look more natural to some people.
Recovery Time: How Long Until I’m Back on My Feet?
Liposuction: Since it is a surgical procedure, liposuction requires some downtime. You might need to take a week or two off work, and full recovery can take several weeks. Some swelling and bruising are common post-op experiences and activities might need to be limited in the early stages of recovery.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring: One of the major advantages of non-surgical treatments is the minimal to zero downtime. As such, you can typically resume your normal activities immediately after the session. However, some temporary side effects like redness, swelling, or minor discomfort in the treated area may occur.
Cost: What’s the Damage to My Wallet?
Liposuction: Given its surgical nature and need for anaesthesia, liposuction generally has a higher upfront cost. However, this can vary significantly based on the extent of the procedure and your geographical location. For instance, in Singapore, the procedure can cost anywhere from SGD 1,500 to SGD 15,000.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring: Non-surgical treatments typically have a lower upfront cost than liposuction. However, keep in mind that you may require multiple sessions to achieve your desired results, which can add up. That said, the usual cost of non-surgical treatments in Singapore can range from SGD 400 to SGD 1000 per session.
Side Effects: What Are the Risks?
Liposuction: As with any surgical procedure, liposuction carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. Rarer complications might include changes in skin sensation, skin discolouration, or uneven contours.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring: Non-surgical procedures are generally considered safer with fewer risks. Temporary redness, swelling, and bruising at the treatment site are the most common side effects. In rare cases, paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (an unusual increase in fat cells) can occur, particularly with procedures like CoolSculpting.
Longevity: How Long Do the Results Last?
Liposuction: Since liposuction physically removes fat cells from your body, the results can be long-lasting. However, it’s important to note that liposuction doesn’t prevent new fat from accumulating. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular exercise is crucial to sustain the results.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring: Similar to liposuction, these procedures also lead to the destruction of fat cells, and thus, the results can be long-term. Nevertheless, existing fat cells can grow larger with weight gain. So, the key to maintaining your newly contoured body with either method lies in a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
Suitability: Which Body Types Are These Procedures For?
Liposuction: Since liposuction is not a weight loss method nor a solution for cellulite or loose, saggy skin, liposuction is suitable for individuals who are close to their ideal weight but struggle with stubborn fat deposits in certain areas like the abdomen, hips, thighs, or arms.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring: Non-surgical methods are also not weight-loss treatments. In fact, these procedures might not be as effective for larger areas of fat. As such, they work best for those near their ideal weight but with specific trouble spots.
Bonus Point: Time Investment
Liposuction: Liposuction typically requires only one session to achieve desired results, though the operation itself and the recovery period can be lengthy.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring: These treatments generally require multiple sessions spaced over weeks or even months. Each session typically lasts less than an hour, and there is little to no recovery time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between liposuction and non-surgical body contouring depends on your individual needs, your tolerance for surgery, and your patience for seeing results. That said, it is vital to have a thorough consultation with a professional who can guide you through the decision-making process based on your specific body type, health history, and cosmetic goals. Remember, the journey to body confidence is a personal one, and the best choice is the one that makes you feel comfortable and fulfilled!
