iLipo gets confused with liposuction a lot because of the presence of “lipo” in the name. “Lipo” comes from lipid, which is the scientific word for fat molecules, as opposed to adipose tissue, which is the scientific name for fat. But, other than the fact that these two treatments deal with fat, there is very little in common between them.
Preparing for iLipo vs. Liposuction
If you are considering liposuction, you have to prepare for a surgical procedure. This may include stopping certain medications, quitting smoking (at least temporarily), and calling off the procedure if you get sick.
iLipo though requires no preparations. Quitting smoking is always recommended, but it’s not necessary for the procedure. There’s no reason to call off treatment if you get sick.
iLipo Procedure vs. Liposuction Procedure
The iLipo procedure is easy: the treatment pads are pressed to your fat deposits. They remain there for about ten minutes. Then you are recommended to exercise for about a half-hour to prevent calories mobilized from the fat from being turned back into fat. A series of treatments is required, usually 4-8 to get results. Sessions are typically scheduled twice a week.
In the liposuction procedure, which is a one-time procedure, incisions are made in your body, and a cannula—a thin metal tube—is inserted to tunnel through your fat deposits. It traumatically removes not only fat, but also blood and other bodily fluids and can damage not just fat but other connective tissue. The procedure typically takes several hours and requires heavy anesthetics.
Recovery from iLipo vs. Liposuction
Recovery from iLipo is easy: there isn’t any. You don’t experience any downtime because your body hasn’t been hurt. Only natural processes have been triggered. You are able to go back to your normal routine, but you are encouraged to do your exercise within two hours of treatment.
Liposuction can result in extensive pain and bruising. You will have to take several days off from work, watch for complications, and avoid baths and other infection risks.
Risks and Results
There are essentially no risks associated with iLipo. It’s a nonsurgical noninvasive procedure that can’t do any harm to you. The results are good. People typically lose about 10% of their waist circumference—several inches, or multiple dress sizes. Results can be permanent if you maintain a good diet and exercise routine. If you gain back the weight, it will return to the treated areas.
For liposuction, there are many known risks, ranging from unattractive appearances, such as undulating fat tissue—which could be permanent or require additional surgeries to correct—infection, death of tissue in the area, and even death. If performed properly, liposuction can give good results that may be more comprehensive than the iLipo results, but if you gain back the weight, fat can be deposited in unnatural areas.
Want to learn more about the differences between iLipo and liposuction? Please call 303-586-3943 or email MedFit Medical Weight Loss Clinic in Denver today for an appointment.
