Plastic Surgeon Dr. Dean Kane of Baltimore Answers Question Regarding Post-Surgery Exercise
Q. What is the downtime after CoolSculpting or liposuction? When can you go back to exercising?
A. While CoolSculpting and Liposuction provide fat reduction, they do so differently and with significantly different magnitudes of enhancement.
CoolSculpting is for more localized and smaller “butterstick” size reduction of fat using a cooling non-surgical technique. Up to 20% of the skin bulge fat which fits into the applicator will reduce in 6 to 12 weeks. You may be sore and rarely bruised but most patients return to full exertional activities within a day.
Liposuction is a fat reducing and larger contouring surgical procedure. I have estimated up to a 90% reduction of the sub-skin fat with a smoother, more contoured final appearance. There are small incisions which may or may not be sutured and the use of a compression garment for 4 to 6 weeks. The patient can expect significant discomfort or pain for days to a week or so and some drainage depending on the volume of fat removed. Most patients do not return to full exertion until the incisions have healed taking 3 to 6 weeks.
The primary difference is that CoolSculpting is exceptional for its limited, non-surgical application. Liposuction in artistic and talented hands provides graceful to etched appearing contours surgically.
Please consult with a experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who provides both to evaluate your desires and needs. All the best!
This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our practice would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics.
