Body Contouring: Cryolipolysis vs. VelaShape

What is Cryolipolysis?
Cryolipolysis is a nonsurgical body contouring treatment that freezes away unwanted fat. It works by using cryolipolysis, a scientifically-proven technique that causes fat cells to break down and die without harming the surrounding tissues. Because fat freezes at a higher temperature than skin and other organs, it’s more sensitive to the cold — this allows the safe delivery of controlled cooling that can eliminate up to 25 percent of treated fat cells. Once targeted by the Cryolipolysis device, unwanted fat is naturally expelled by the body over the next few weeks, leaving behind slimmer contours without any surgery or downtime.

What is VelaShape?
While Cryolipolysis works by icing out stubborn fat, VelaShape heats things up by delivering a combination of bipolar radiofrequency (RF) energy, infrared light, mechanical massage and mild suction to reduce the appearance of cellulite and sculpt treated areas. This blend of technology from the VelaShape machine works together to gently warm fat and dermal tissues, stimulating new collagen and relaxing the stiff fibers that cause cellulite. In the process, fat cells also shrink, resulting in smoother skin and a reduction in circumference that makes your jeans fit just a little bit better.

How are cryolipolysis and VelaShape Different?
Both cryolipolysis and VelaShape are body contouring procedures that offer clinically-proven results, but there are some key differences between the two. Having a better idea of what each can achieve can help you determine which treatment is right for you.

TECHNOLOGY
cryolipolysis uses targeted cooling technology to freeze fat cells
VelaShape combines bipolar RF energy, infrared light, suction and massage to shrink fat cells and reduce the dimpling caused by cellulite
CANDIDATES
Ideal candidates for cryolipolysis should at or near their goal weight, have good skin elasticity and want to eliminate a moderate amount of stubborn fat
VelaShape candidates should be at a relatively healthy weight but want to improve the appearance of mild to moderate cellulite
CONCERNS
cryolipolysis can effectively reduce unwanted fat that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise, but isn’t a weight-loss treatment
VelaShape primarily treats cellulite, with a mild reduction in unwanted fat
TREATMENT AREA
cryolipolysis is often used on the hips, thighs, back, love handles, arms, abdomen, and beneath the chin
VelaShape works best on the hips, thighs, abdomen and buttocks

COMFORT
cryolipolysis treatments are generally comfortable, but you may feel some tugging or pulling as the device applies suction to the skin.
VelaShape treatments are virtually painless and often compared to a warm, deep tissue massage.

RECOVERY
After cryolipolysis, you may experience some numbness, tingling or swelling in treated areas, but this is mild and temporary
Your skin may feel warm after a VelaShape treatment, but you can immediately resume all normal activities with no downtime
RESULTS
Once fat cells are eliminated, they’re gone for good, which means cryolipolysis can yield permanent results when paired with diet and exercise
VelaShape results aren’t permanent, but can be prolonged with a healthy lifestyle and touch-up treatments at least once every three months
How Long Does Body Contouring Last?
Something a lot of people ask about nonsurgical body contouring is, where does the fat go? Once fat cells are treated with cryolipolysis or VelaShape, they’re eliminated naturally through the body’s lymphatic system. This happens gradually in the weeks after treatment, with visible results developing by the third or fourth week. This results in slimmer contours that will last as long as you eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly. If your weight fluctuates or you want even more dramatic results, treatments can be repeated to sculpt and tone your body even further.

With VelaShape, there’s even more going on beneath the surface to smooth away the appearance of cellulite. In addition to shrinking fat cells in treated areas, VelaShape also stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin for firmer, tighter skin. At the same time, the device’s massaging action breaks up the fibrous bands that cause dimpling. Most patients need four to 12 treatments to achieve optimal results, but this can vary depending on your health and lifestyle.

Is VelaShape Permanent?
VelaShape isn’t a cure for cellulite (no permanent solution exists) but can provide a significant improvement in the appearance of dimpled skin. Although your results won’t be permanent, they can be easily maintained once you reach your fitness goals. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help keep cellulite at bay, while maintenance sessions every one to three months can prolong your initial results.

So Which is Better?
Both cryolipolysis and VelaShape can contour your body and help you put the finishing touches on your fitness journey, but the one that’s right for you will depend on your unique needs and goals. If you’re looking to reduce stubborn fat in areas that diet or exercise can’t reach, cryolipolysis might be the better choice. But if your primary concern is cellulite, then VelaShape can deliver the results you want. Both procedures can reshape your body to give you a more toned appearance, however, and be included in your noninvasive body contouring treatment plan.