In today’s aesthetic market, nonsurgical body-contouring options are promoted everywhere. These treatments claim to shrink fat, sculpt curves, and tighten skin without the need for surgery. But do they work? And how do they compare to traditional liposuction, the long-standing gold standard?
Below, we review the science, the risks, and the results behind popular nonsurgical alternatives so you can make an informed choice.
CoolSculpting: Freezing Fat—but Not Without Risks
CoolSculpting is among the most well-known nonsurgical fat reduction treatments. It works by freezing fat cells in targeted areas.
The Problems With CoolSculpting
- ❗ Risk of Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH):
Instead of shrinking, fat cells can enlarge—a well-documented complication. - 💸 Expensive and Time-Consuming:
Multiple sessions are often required, with variable results. - 📍 Only Treats Small Areas:
It is designed for spot treatments, not larger or blended body areas.
Because of these limitations, CoolSculpting treatments have declined in popularity in recent years.
Radiofrequency Devices: Internal Heat With Additional Risks
Radiofrequency treatments like FaceTite and BodyTite use a probe inserted beneath the skin to heat tissues.
Concerns With Radiofrequency Treatments
- 🔥 Internal Burns:
The method heats tissues aggressively, risking nerve damage and permanent numbness. - 🧠 Non-Specific Targeting:
Fat is not the only tissue affected—nerves and connective tissues can be damaged too. - 🗓 Long Recovery:
Swelling may take months to resolve.
These risks have raised concern among surgeons and patients.
Renuvion: Helium Plasma With Controversial Results
Renuvion uses helium gas and heat to contract tissues beneath the skin. Although it is new and heavily marketed, it is not without issues.
Risks and Limitations
- ⚠️ FDA Adverse Event Reports:
Numerous safety concerns have been submitted to the FDA. - ❓ No Proven Improvement Over Liposuction:
Studies have failed to show reliable advantages when used as an add-on. - 🔬 Research Bias:
Many researchers studying these devices receive manufacturer funding or even discounted devices.
Many experienced surgeons believe that these energy-based technologies are “the future of body contouring—and always will be,” highlighting ongoing skepticism.
The Truth: Liposuction Remains the Gold Standard
Liposuction has been the most effective and dependable method of fat reduction for decades.
Why Liposuction Still Leads
- 💯 Consistent, Dramatic Results:
Dr. Swanson’s original MRI-based study showed significant, measurable fat layer reduction. (Swanson E. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2012;65:128–130.) - 🔥 No Heat = Lower Risk:
Traditional liposuction avoids the complications seen with heat-based devices. - 🌟 High Patient Satisfaction:
Results are predictable, natural, and long-lasting. - ⏱ Short Recovery:
Most patients return to work within a week. - 🔄 Treats Large, Connected Areas:
Not limited to small “spots”—true sculpting is possible. - 🔒 Permanent Results:
Body proportions stay improved unless there is extreme weight gain.
The Role of Surgical Expertise
Achieving optimal results requires an experienced surgeon who understands how to balance aggressiveness with safety. Skin quality matters—too much fat removal can limit the skin’s ability to contract.
Patients with significant abdominal skin laxity may benefit from a tummy tuck performed alongside liposuction.
For Those Interested in Further Research
Dr. Swanson has published widely viewed systematic reviews on energy-based devices. Here are two such publications::
- Systematic Review of Helium Plasma Radiofrequency (Renuvion)
Ann Plast Surg. Published online August 6, 2025. - Systematic Review of Subsurface Radiofrequency Treatments in Plastic Surgery
Ann Plast Surg. 2022;89:274–285.
These reviews provide an in-depth look at the data behind these devices and are available to the public (Open Access)..
Case Example
This 24-year-old woman underwent liposuction of her lower body.
Her photographs and MRI scans were taken before the procedure and again six months afterward, demonstrating the dramatic and measurable reduction in subcutaneous fat (the white layer) made possible by liposuction.
43 year old woman, Lower body liposuction. 16 months postop
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re considering body contouring and want safe, effective, proven results, we’re here to help.
📞 Call The Swanson Center: +913.663.1030
📍 11413 Ash St, Leawood, KS 66211
🕘 Monday – Friday | 9 AM – 5 PM