So, we all look at ourselves in the mirror pretty much every day.  (Except maybe when I’m camping, another reason to love camping!).  Hopefully you like what you see, put on your clothes, do your hair and move on with the day.  But sometimes there is that spot that keeps nagging at you- maybe your love handles, tummy pouch, that fat that hangs over the edge of your bra, your thighs or a little bit of double chin that keeps you staring a bit longer and wishing it away. 

Well, unfortunately, there is no magic, even in plastic surgery.  What is the best way to get rid of unwanted fat?  There are pros and cons to each method- so really it is best to see someone who is familiar with all the different methods to find the best one for you.  You know the saying “If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail…”

Here’s a quick breakdown on some common types of fat removal…

Kybella

What is it? Kybella is deoxycholic acid that is injected into fatty areas to essentially dissolve fat
Where can you use it? It is FDA approved for use under the chin, although it can be used off-label for other areas of fat deposits
What are the benefits? It is done in office with no anesthesia
What are the downsides? Most people need multiple sessions and there is quite a bit of swelling afterwards. Also, there is limited control of what gets dissolved other than selecting the area and amount of injection. No skin shrinkage.

Coolsculpting

What is it? Coolsculpting is a cold applicator that causes fat cells to undergo apoptosis or cell death after being exposed to cold.
Where can you use it? Common areas of use include abdomen and flanks, inner and outer thighs, under chin
What are the benefits? It is done in office with no anesthesia, no skin incisions
What are the downsides? Most people need multiple sessions, the treatment area is limited to the size and shape of the applicator so there can be a border around the treated area, there is a rare chance of opposite effect where fat grows larger. No skin shrinkage.

Traditional Liposuction

What is it? Fluid is injected into the area of treatment and an instrument called a cannula sucks fat cells out.
Where can you use it? Any area of the body with excess fat deposits.
What are the benefits? It can be used over large areas of the body to sculpt and contour as needed. Fat cells are permanently removed.
What are the downsides? Treating large areas of the body may require anesthesia and monitoring in the hospital. More bruising and longer recovery. No skin shrinkage.

BodyTite and FaceTite

What is it? Electrodes deliver radiofrequency energy above and below the skin to liquefy fat and shrink skin as well as stimulate collagen growth. Traditional liposuction removes the liquefied fat.
Where can you use it? Any area of the body with excess fat deposits- common areas are under chin, abdomen, inner thighs, upper arms, bra line.
What are the benefits? Allows precise control and contouring. Both removes fat and shrinks extra skin. Can be done under local anesthesia in the office with minimal down time.
What are the downsides? Small skin incisions to place the instruments. Treating large or multiple areas may require either more than one session, or anesthesia in the hospital. Skin shrinkage will be less than skin removal such as facelift or tummy tuck.

Of course, there are many other brands and types of fat removal, and the most important thing is to go to a doctor who will be able to help you understand the pros and cons of your treatment and help you make the right decision for you.