BodyFX vs CoolSculpting: Your Complete Guide to Pros, Cons & Results

Many people still consider liposuction when looking for body contouring, but there are effective non-surgical alternatives. Two of the most recognized treatments are BodyFX and CoolSculpting. While both reduce stubborn fat without surgery, they use different technologies and deliver unique advantages.

At Celebrity Laser & Skin Care in North Vancouver, we specialize in BodyFX — a non-invasive, heat-based treatment that also tightens skin and smooths cellulite. While we do not offer CoolSculpting, many clients ask how it compares. 

This guide helps you make an informed decision by outlining how both treatments work and which might suit your needs best.

What is BodyFX?

BodyFX is a non-invasive body contouring treatment that combines radiofrequency (RF) energy, deep tissue heating, vacuum suction, and high-voltage pulsing to reduce fat, smooth cellulite, and tighten loose skin—all with no downtime. It’s often recommended for those seeking a non-surgical alternative to liposuction, especially in areas resistant to diet and exercise.

This treatment is ideal for reshaping common trouble spots like the abdomen, flanks, thighs, buttocks, arms, and back, improving both the body silhouette and skin elasticity over time.

How BodyFX Works

BodyFX uses a multi-modality approach that includes:

• Radiofrequency heating to target the dermis and subcutaneous fat
• Vacuum suction to improve circulation and facilitate fat breakdown
• High-voltage electrical pulses to disrupt fat cells and stimulate collagen production

Together, these mechanisms melt fat, stimulate skin tightening, and reduce cellulite, leading to long-lasting body contouring results.

Health Canada Approval & Safety Profile

BodyFX is Health Canada–approved for non-invasive fat reduction and skin tightening. The treatment is safe, well-tolerated, and suitable for most individuals with localized fat or skin laxity. Reported side effects are minimal and may include temporary redness, swelling, or warmth, which typically resolve within a few hours.

Is BodyFX effective?

​​Yes—BodyFX is clinically proven to reduce fat, tighten skin, and improve the appearance of cellulite with a consistent treatment plan.

• Visible Results: Gradual improvements appear over 8–10 sessions, with best results seen around 3 months after the final treatment.
• Ideal Candidates: Those with moderate fat deposits, mild to moderate skin laxity, or cellulite who prefer a non-surgical approach.
• Patient Feedback: Many clients report improved confidence due to smoother contours, firmer skin, and a reduction in dimpling or sagging. 

Treatment Experience & Recovery

Each BodyFX session takes about 60 minutes. During treatment, the device is applied to the target area, delivering controlled heat, gentle suction, and mechanical massage. Most describe the sensation as warm and soothing, with no need for anesthesia or downtime.

After the session, you can return to your day immediately. You might experience mild redness or tenderness, but these effects are temporary.

Recommended Sessions & Maintenance

• Treatment Interval: Weekly sessions are recommended
• Number of Sessions: Most patients require 8–10 sessions for optimal results
• Maintenance: Follow-up treatments every 3 months may be suggested to maintain improvements
• Lifestyle Support: A healthy diet and exercise routine will help extend the benefits 

BodyFX Pros and Cons

One of the key advantages of BodyFX is that it offers a multi-benefit approach—combining fat reduction, skin tightening, and cellulite improvement in a single non-invasive treatment. 

Many patients find the sessions comfortable and easy to fit into their schedule, with no need for anesthesia or post-treatment downtime. 

It’s also suitable for various skin types and body areas, which makes it a versatile choice for those seeking gradual but visible refinement in their shape and skin texture.

However, BodyFX is not a quick fix. The process requires commitment, as noticeable improvements tend to appear progressively over multiple weekly sessions. While it’s effective for mild to moderate fat and laxity, those with more substantial fat deposits may find the outcomes less dramatic compared to treatments that deliver stronger fat-cell destruction in fewer appointments.

Pricing & Financing

• Pricing: Starts at $350 per session, depending on area treated and number of sessions
• Financing: Flexible payment plans with 0% interest are available to help clients start treatment without delay

What is Coolsculpting?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses cryolipolysis—controlled cooling technology—to freeze and permanently destroy fat cells. It’s especially effective for pinchable fat deposits in common trouble areas like the abdomen, flanks, thighs, and under the chin.

Unlike heat-based devices like BodyFX, CoolSculpting focuses solely on fat removal, without offering skin tightening or cellulite smoothing.

How CoolSculpting Works

CoolSculpting targets fat cells by exposing them to cold temperatures that crystallize and damage the cells without harming surrounding skin or muscle. These damaged fat cells are then naturally eliminated by the lymphatic system over the following weeks.

• Cryolipolysis cools the fat layer to around –11°C
• Treated fat cells undergo apoptosis (cell death)
• The body gradually metabolizes and excretes the dead fat cells

Each treatment uses an applicator that suctions the fat bulge and holds it between cooling panels for 35 to 75 minutes, depending on the area.

Health Canada Approval & Safety Profile

CoolSculpting is Health Canada–approved for fat reduction in nine body areas, including:

• Abdomen
• Flanks (love handles)
• Inner and outer thighs
• Upper arms
• Double chin (submental area)
• Bra fat and back fat
• Underneath the buttocks (“banana roll”)

It’s considered safe for most individuals, but one rare side effect is Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH)—a condition where treated fat cells enlarge instead of shrinking. Other temporary side effects may include redness, numbness, bruising, or tingling in the treated area.

Is CoolSculpting effective?

CoolSculpting is clinically proven to reduce fat in treated areas and is backed by peer-reviewed publications and procedures worldwide.

• Visible Results: Most clients notice improvement within 1–3 months post-treatment
• Ideal Candidates: Adults with pinchable, localized fat and good skin tone
• Patient Satisfaction: Studies report high satisfaction rates, especially when results align with expectations

However, it’s not a weight-loss method and is not suitable for obesity or lax skin concerns.

Treatment Experience & Recovery

During the session, the applicator suctions the target fat into a cooling cup. Patients feel cold, pulling, or tingling for the first few minutes, which usually subsides as the area becomes numb. Sessions last 35 to 75 minutes depending on the applicator.

After treatment, common sensations include temporary numbness, firmness, or mild discomfort, but no anesthesia or downtime is required. You can return to normal activities immediately.

Recommended Sessions & Maintenance

• Treatment Interval: Most patients require 1–2 sessions per area
• Timeline: Final results are seen within 2–3 months, as fat cells are eliminated
• Maintenance: Results are considered permanent if a stable weight is maintained, but new fat cells can still form with significant weight gain

CoolSculpting Pros and Cons

CoolSculpting is often chosen for its efficiency—many patients appreciate that fewer sessions are typically needed to achieve measurable fat reduction. It’s a straightforward treatment and a good fit for individuals targeting clearly defined, pinchable fat in areas like the abdomen, flanks, or thighs. 

However, the treatment does come with certain limitations. Since it works solely through fat freezing, it doesn’t improve skin laxity or cellulite, which may leave some clients wishing for added skin refinement. 

Discomfort during or after the session—such as aching, numbness, or swelling—is also relatively common, and in rare instances, there’s a risk of a paradoxical reaction where fat cells enlarge rather than shrink. For those needing both fat reduction and tissue tightening, a more comprehensive approach may be required.

Pricing & Access

• Pricing in Vancouver: CoolSculpting typically ranges from $750 to $1,600 per area
• Total Cost: A full sculpting plan often involves treating multiple zones, which can cost $2,000–$4,600+
• Availability: CoolSculpting is widely available in Vancouver, but Celebrity Laser & Skin Care does not offer CoolSculpting

BodyFX vs CoolSculpting: A Detailed Comparison

BodyFX and CoolSculpting both offer non-invasive fat reduction—but they rely on different technologies and deliver different benefits. Understanding their differences can help you choose the best approach based on your body goals, treatment tolerance, and expectations. 

While Celebrity Laser & Skin Care offers BodyFX exclusively, this comparison explains how it stacks up against CoolSculpting for those exploring their options.

The Technology Used: Thermal RF vs. Cryolipolysis

BodyFX uses radiofrequency energy combined with deep tissue heating, vacuum suction, and pulsed electrical stimulation. This combination not only targets fat but also helps smooth cellulite and tighten skin.

CoolSculpting, by contrast, uses cryolipolysis—controlled cooling that freezes fat cells until they break down and are eliminated by the body.

Treatment Sessions & Duration

BodyFX treatments are typically scheduled once a week and most clients complete 8–10 sessions for full results. Each session lasts about 60 minutes.

CoolSculpting usually requires 1–2 sessions per area, each lasting 35 to 75 minutes depending on the applicator and body zone.

Results Timeline & Longevity

BodyFX produces gradual results as collagen builds and fat breaks down—most visible improvements appear 2–3 months after the final session.

CoolSculpting also shows results gradually, with most patients noticing changes within 1–3 months. Treated fat cells are permanently removed, although maintaining results depends on weight stability.

Side Effects & Downtime

BodyFX has no downtime and minimal side effects, such as temporary redness, mild tenderness, or localized warmth.

CoolSculpting may involve discomfort, bruising, or numbness, and in rare cases, paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where treated fat cells enlarge rather than shrink.

Skin Tightening & Cellulite Treatment

BodyFX stands out for its skin tightening and cellulite-smoothing effects, which are built into its multi-technology design.

CoolSculpting, while effective at reducing fat, does not treat skin laxity or cellulite, making it less comprehensive for clients seeking smoother contours.

Best Use Cases: Fat Removal vs. Reshaping

BodyFX is ideal for individuals with moderate fat deposits, early skin laxity, or visible cellulite who want overall body shaping and improved skin texture.

CoolSculpting may be preferred by those seeking faster fat reduction in clearly defined areas like the abdomen or flanks—but it’s not suitable for those needing skin toning or multi-benefit results.

Customization & Treatment Precision

BodyFX treatments are actively monitored and adjusted by your provider in real time, allowing for personalized intensity and targeting.

CoolSculpting uses fixed applicators with less customization during treatment, although different handpieces exist for different zones.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Choosing between BodyFX and CoolSculpting depends on your goals, body type, and what kind of results you’re hoping to achieve. Here’s a quick breakdown to help guide your decision:

• Skin Tightening: BodyFX is the better option if you’re looking to firm loose skin while reducing fat. It stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity as part of every session.
• Cellulite Reduction: BodyFX also targets cellulite, making it ideal for smoothing out dimpling and refining texture—especially in areas like the thighs, buttocks, or arms.
• Fast Fat Loss: If your goal is visible fat reduction in the shortest time possible, CoolSculpting delivers results within 1 to 3 months, often after just 1–2 sessions per area.
• Fewer Appointments: CoolSculpting is generally a one-time treatment per zone, while BodyFX requires a series of 8–10 weekly sessions for optimal outcomes.
• Full-Body Contouring: For gradual, natural-looking improvement in multiple areas—especially where both fat and skin laxity are a concern—BodyFX offers a comprehensive reshaping solution.
• Larger Fat Areas: CoolSculpting is better suited for treating bulkier, well-defined fat deposits such as the lower abdomen or flanks.
• Comfort & Experience: BodyFX is typically described as warm, relaxing, and massage-like. In contrast, CoolSculpting involves cold suction and may cause temporary numbness or tingling.

Still unsure? A personalized consultation with our clinical team at Celebrity Laser & Skin Care can help you choose the right treatment plan based on your body goals, budget, and timeline.

Conclusion: Why BodyFX May Be the Right Fit for You

BodyFX and CoolSculpting are both well-known non-surgical treatments for reducing stubborn fat, but they differ significantly in how they work and what they offer. CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis (fat freezing) to reduce larger fat pockets, while BodyFX combines radiofrequency heat, suction, and pulsing to reduce fat, tighten skin, and smooth cellulite—making it a more comprehensive solution for overall body contouring.

At Celebrity Laser & Skin Care in North Vancouver, we exclusively offer BodyFX because of its versatility, comfort, and added skin-firming benefits. Clients seeking gradual, natural-looking improvement with no downtime often find BodyFX the ideal fit for their goals.

While CoolSculpting is not available at our clinic, we offer other advanced options like Emsculpt NEO and VelaShape II to help address a wide range of body contouring needs.

Here’s a quick recap to guide your decision:

• Choose BodyFX if you’re looking for fat reduction plus skin tightening and cellulite improvement in one solution.
• Consider CoolSculpting (offered at other clinics) if your primary goal is faster fat volume reduction in larger areas and you don’t need skin tightening.

Still unsure? Book a personalized consultation with our expert team to find the right treatment strategy for your body and goals.