Key Takeaways:
- Body contouring treatments have become more popular as many individuals want to target stubborn fat rather than lose weight altogether.
- Understanding the differences between surgical and non-surgical procedures is important for achieving your desired results.
- The right method depends on your goals, timeframe, budget, and how comfortable you are with surgery or recovery time.
- CoolSculpting is a great option if you’re looking for a non-surgical treatment with little to no downtime.
- Liposuction may be better suited for those who want more dramatic fat reduction in a single session.
- A consultation with a qualified professional can help you decide which treatment best fits your goals, body, and lifestyle.
What is Body Contouring?
Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and thought, “I wish this area looked different”? Body contouring is the answer. It’s all about toning and sculpting specific areas of your body, without having to lose weight altogether (which doesn’t always target the problem areas anyway). It helps remove fat pockets so you can feel more confident and comfortable in your skin.
The technology works by removing pockets of fat hence you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin. Just keep in mind that body contouring is not a weight loss approach but a procedure that is able to remove fat in stubborn areas. You know, like that persistent belly fat, love handles, or even a double chin that simply can’t go away despite all your hardwork in the gym.
CoolSculpting: A Non-Surgical Treatment How CoolSculpting Works?
CoolSculpting is done by destroying the fat cells without injuring the surrounding tissue. This process is scientifically termed cryolipolysis and with time the body will get rid of these cells via the lymphatic system.
Benefits of CoolSculpting:
- CoolSculpting has grown to be more and more accessible throughout the world to become one of the best fat removal options that does not require any surgery.
- It is totally non-invasive, no needles, incisions and recovery time. You’re done and back to your day.
- The session does not include any anesthesia, there is minimal to no discomfort throughout the treatment time.
- It is FDA cleared as well as Health Canada approved to treat such areas as the abdomen, flanks (love handles), inner or outer thighs, double chin, and arms.
Ideal Candidates for CoolSculpting
Here’s who usually will get the best results from CoolSculpting:
- Those with stubborn fat pocket areas that no amount of dieting or exercise seems to get rid of.
- If you’re close to your ideal weight but want to tone certain areas, this could be the perfect treatment for you.
- If you want less recovery time without going under the knife, CoolSculpting is a great non-invasive option.
- Skin that still has a bit of elasticity? You’re likely to see the best results when your skin can bounce back a bit after the fat is gone.
- You’ll need some patience, results don’t happen overnight, but they’ll be worth the wait!
- CoolSculpting works, but you may need a second session for optimal results.
- Being realistic about the results is important, it’s not a magic wand, but it’ll definitely help sculpt those stubborn spots.
How Liposuction Works
- Surgically removing fat from certain body parts, such as the arms, thighs, stomach, or under the chin, is known as liposuction.
- A tiny tube called a cannula is used; liposuction gets rid of fat cells directly, as opposed to non-surgical methods that depend on your body to gradually eliminate them.
- The surgeon can define and shape the targeted areas by inserting this tool through tiny incisions and gently sucking out the fat.
- It can produce observable results and is usually completed in a single session.
- Since it’s surgery, there will be more recovery time; soreness and swelling are common in the days after treatment.
- The results can be quite dramatic, making it a worthwhile decision for many people.
Benefits of Liposuction
The following are some benefits of liposuction:
- It targets fat deposits in areas that diet and exercise alone are unable to reduce.
- You see results pretty much right away. There’s some swelling at first, but the fat is gone so you do not have to wait a few months like with CoolSculpting.
- For some people, removing fat from areas like the inner thighs or knees can make walking a lot easier. Also, can relieve pressure on the joints around the knees and hips.
- And, of course, feeling more confident in your body can positively impact your mental health. It is way easier to stay active and motivated when you feel good about yourself!
Ideal Candidates for Liposuction
- Candidates have specific areas of stubborn fat, that of the abdomen, thighs, arms, or flanks, that have not responded to diet and exercise.
- Not trying to lose or gain weight at the time of surgery drastically.
- Are generally healthy without any health concerns that can compromise recovery.
- Understanding that liposuction is a body contouring technique rather than a weight loss surgery.
- Dedicated to keeping your result by following a healthy lifestyle post-surgery.
Head-to-Head Comparison: CoolSculpting vs Liposuction
Below is a general comparison table between CoolSculpting vs Liposuction.
| Feature | CoolSculpting | Liposuction |
| What it is | Non-surgical fat freezing | Surgical fat removal |
| How it works | Freezes fat, body eliminates it naturally | Fat is sucked out via a small tube |
| Recovery | No downtime, back to daily activities immediately | 3-7 days of rest, swelling and bruising |
| Pain | Mild discomfort | Sore with bruising/swelling |
| Results | Gradual over a couple of months | Instant results after recovery |
| Best For | Small, stubborn fat areas | Larger fat areas needing more dramatic changes |
| Cost | Lower per sessions, multiple sessions needed | Higher upfront cost, usually one-time fee |
| Longevity | Permanent with healthy lifestyle | Permanent as long as weight is maintained |
Cost Comparison
How much does liposuction and CoolSculpting cost? The answer depends on several factors:
Location
Where you live can make a big difference in price, clinics in major cities like Toronto usually charge more than smaller towns.
If you’re traveling from out of town, don’t forget to factor in travel costs too.
Experience of the Provider
Highly experienced professionals may charge more, but their expertise helps reduce risks and improves results. You’re paying for someone who knows what they’re doing, and your body deserves that!
Treatment Area & Amount
- The number and size of areas being treated will affect the cost. CoolSculpting is usually priced per applicator or zone, and you might need more than one session.
- Liposuction is priced per area, and the cost can go up quickly if multiple areas are being treated.
Quality vs. Cheaper Options
- If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Clinics using uncertified providers or machines might offer lower prices, but at the cost of safety and results.
- Always choose a licensed, reputable clinic, even if it is more expensive, it is worth it.
Average Pricing in Toronto (2025 estimates):
- CoolSculpting
- Small areas (like chin or arms): $750 to $800 per session
- Larger areas (abdomen, thighs, love handles): $750 to $1,200 per area
- Full treatment packages (multiple areas): $2,000 to $7,000+
- Liposuction
- Single area (stomach or flanks): $4,000 to $6,500
- Two or more areas: $6,000 to $10,000+
- Chin or small areas: Starts around $3,000
These are just estimates, your exact price will depend on your goals, your provider, and how many areas you want to treat. Booking a consultation is the best way to get a personalized quote.
Safety & Side Effects
CoolSculpting Risks
- Mild redness, swelling, or numbness after treatment (usually goes away in a few days)
- You might feel a tugging or cold sensation during the session
- Rare but possible: Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH): this is when the fat gets bigger instead of smaller, a rare side effect.
- Make sure the machine is real and the provider is trained. Do your own research as there are many fake versions out there.
Liposuction Risks
- Swelling, bruising, and soreness are normal during recovery.
- Infection, bleeding, or uneven results can happen if not done properly.
- There’s a risk with anesthesia since it’s surgery.
- Scarring is minimal, but possible depending on the area and healing.
Recovery & Downtime
- CoolSculpting
- No real downtime, you can resume back to your regular activities on the same day.
- Minor soreness or numbness can last a few days or weeks.
- Results show gradually over a few months.
- Liposuction
- Expect a few days to a week off for recovery, depending on the area treated.
- You’ll likely wear a compression garment to help with swelling.
- Bruising and soreness can last a few weeks.
- Final results take a couple of months as swelling goes down.
CoolSculpting at Philosophy of Beauty
At Philosophy of Beauty, we keep things real, safe, effective, and personalized. CoolSculpting is what we do best!
- We offer complimentary consultations and take the time to talk with you, answer your questions, and walk you through everything so you feel comfortable.
- Our treatments are specifically designed and tailored to suit your body and goals.
- We are a clinic you can trust, as we use only advanced technology and adhere to strict safety standards at all times.
“Our goal is to give you natural, sculpted results that make you feel like your best self.”
— Shanon Renata Shakirova-Churikov (BScN, RN, CoolSculpting Master)
Ready to feel more confident in your body?
Book a consultation with us, we’ll talk through your goals and help you figure out if CoolSculpting is the right fit for you.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to do CoolSculpting is a personal choice, it’s not just about looks, it’s about feeling good in your own skin. Ask questions, do your research, and make sure you’re in good hands with a certified professional. When done right, CoolSculpting can target stubborn fat and give you subtle, natural-looking results.
Disclaimer: This info is just general guidance and doesn’t replace medical advice. Always speak to a board-certified professional before going ahead with any treatment.
FAQs: CoolSculpting vs Liposuction
What’s the difference?
CoolSculpting freezes fat, no needles, no downtime. Liposuction is surgery where fat is suctioned out. One’s non-invasive, the others more intense with faster results.
Which one should I get?
Depends on your goals. CoolSculpting is great if you want something less invasive. Liposuction is better if you want big changes fast and don’t mind downtime.
Is one more expensive?
Liposuction costs more upfront but might be one-and-done. CoolSculpting is cheaper per session, but you might need a few sessions.
How long do results last?
Both are long-lasting if you keep a healthy lifestyle. The fat cells don’t come back, but new ones can form if you gain weight.
What about recovery?
CoolSculpting = back to work the same day. Liposuction = you’ll need a few days to rest. You’ll probably feel sore either way, but liposuction has a longer recovery time.
Any risks?
CoolSculpting is super safe when done properly, but watch out for knock-off machines. Liposuction is safe too, but it’s surgery, so it comes with more risks. Always go to a trusted provider.
