The Differences Between Body Contouring and Body Sculpting

Body contouring is not an alternative to losing weight, but it can give you the more toned, sculpted look you desire because it destroys fat cells and tightens loose skin without the need for surgery. If you are curious about enhancing your silhouette for a slimmer, more taut appearance, today Valley Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center will be exploring the differences between body contouring and body sculpting.

What is Non-Surgical Body Contouring?

Body contouring is a treatment that requires no surgical incisions, no anesthesia, no pain medications and no needles. This also means little to no recovery time. Today’s body contouring procedures effectively reduce or remove stubborn pockets of fat to shape and contour the body. Instead of surgery, these procedures are done with applicators or handheld devices placed on the skin.

Body contouring and body sculpting are terms often used interchangeably to describe various cosmetic procedures aimed at reshaping and enhancing the body’s appearance. Both treatments can be used on similar target areas:

• Abdomen for abdominal fat reduction and a slimmer waistline
• Flanks (Love Handles) for a more contoured waist and hip area
• Thighs for reducing thigh circumference and creating a more toned appearance
• Back for decreasing fatty deposits in the upper or lower back
• Reduces fat in the upper arms to create a more toned appearance
• Eliminates the “double chin” for a more defined jawline
• Targets the area just below the buttocks to reduce fat and enhance contours
• A double chin (submental fat) for a more contoured jawline

What Is The Difference?

If you search these treatments online, you may find that body contouring and body sculpting are quite similar. Both aim at reshaping the body for a slimmer silhouette, especially in target areas that may be problematic due to stubborn pockets of fat. This is why the terms “body sculpting” and “body contouring” are often used interchangeably.

However, body sculpting focuses on removing excess fat to shape specific areas, while body contouring includes both fat removal and skin tightening procedures for a more comprehensive reshaping.

At Valley Dermatology, we use CoolSculpting for shaping and sculpting the body. If weight loss, aging or pregnancy has made it hard to achieve the sculpted and toned look you desire due to stubborn deposits of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise, CoolSculpting may be the perfect solution.

How Does CoolSculpting Work?

Cryolipolysis, or “cold-induced fat breakdown,” is the core mechanism of CoolSculpting. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold than surrounding tissues, so the controlled cooling process selectively targets and freezes fat cells without damaging the skin or other structures.

Once the target areas are identified, a gel pad and applicator are placed on the skin surface.

The applicator delivers controlled cooling to the targeted fat, bringing it to a temperature that induces a natural and controlled elimination of fat cells.

Over the following weeks after treatment, the crystallized fat cells undergo apoptosis, a natural cell death process. After apoptosis, the body’s natural metabolic processes gradually eliminate the dead fat cells. As the body begins to eliminate those fat cells, the treated area experiences a reduction in fat volume, leading to a more contoured and sculpted appearance.

Curious how much CoolSculpting costs? Check out our guide! Also see what you should know before getting CoolSculpting.

Are You a CoolSculpting Candidate?

CoolSculpting is not a one-size-fits-all solution, so the first step in determining your candidacy will be a consultation. At Valley Dermatology, ideal candidates should have specific goals and areas of concern that align with the capabilities of CoolSculpting.

• This procedure is most suitable for individuals who are close to their ideal weight but struggle with isolated pockets of fat.
• It yields optimal results for people who have already adopted a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, who are successful at maintaining their weight without large fluctuations.
• Ideal candidates for body contouring and body sculpting have good skin elasticity, which allows the skin to adapt well to the changes in body contours after fat reduction.
• Good blood circulation is essential for the success of CoolSculpting.
• Individuals with circulatory disorders or conditions that may impair blood flow may not be suitable candidates.

FAQs

What’s the difference between body contouring and body sculpting?

Body contouring generally focuses on reducing larger areas of fat and reshaping the body, while body sculpting emphasizes precision and muscle definition for a more chiseled appearance.

How many sessions will I need to see results?

The number of sessions needed for body contouring or body sculpting varies depending on the individual’s desired outcome, the specific treatment used, and the area being targeted. For treatments like CoolSculpting, many patients start to see noticeable results after one session. The exact number of sessions needed will be determined based on your body’s response to the treatment and your specific goals.

How long does it take to see results?

Results from body contouring or sculpting procedures typically become noticeable within a few weeks to months, as the body gradually processes and eliminates the treated fat cells. Optimal results are typically achieved after two to three sessions spaced several weeks apart.

Which body contouring treatment is right for me?

During your consultation at Valley Dermatology, we will review your medical history and assess your areas of concern to determine the best treatment option for you.

Why Choose Valley Dermatology for Body Contouring?

If you are curious about body contouring with CoolSculpting, Valley Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center is here to help! CoolSculpting is a fantastic option for those looking to reduce or eliminate stubborn fat. It is non-invasive, safe, and comfortable but it is crucial to choose a provider who can provide you the most safe, effective treatment possible. Our CoolSculpting providers are highly trained in performing the procedure and providing the best outcomes for our patients. Additionally, they have a deep understanding of the body anatomy, patient needs, and the art of proper application for the device.

Valley Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, led by Dr. Scott Smith, offers top-tier, trusted dermatological care in the Pacific Northwest. From skin cancer treatments to cosmetic services, our experts are here to address your skin concerns. Experience exceptional care on your path to healthier, more beautiful skin. Visit us online to schedule your complimentary consultation!