CoolTone vs. CoolSculpting: Which One is Right for You?

Body contouring treatments have gained massive popularity as non-invasive alternatives to traditional liposuction and surgical body sculpting. Among the most advanced options available today are CoolSculpting and CoolTone, two FDA-cleared treatments designed to help individuals achieve their ideal physique. While both procedures are developed by Allergan, they serve different purposes—CoolSculpting focuses on fat reduction, whereas CoolTone targets muscle strengthening and toning.

If you’re considering body contouring but aren’t sure which treatment is right for you, this guide breaks down the key differences between CoolSculpting and CoolTone, including treatment areas, side effects, costs, and whether they can be combined for optimal results.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat-freezing procedure that uses cryolipolysis to eliminate stubborn fat cells. This technology applies controlled cooling to freeze and destroy fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated from the body over time. The process is FDA-approved, safe, and requires little to no downtime.

CoolSculpting is ideal for those looking to reduce fat pockets that are resistant to diet and exercise. The treatment gradually slims and reshapes targeted areas by permanently removing fat cells. Results appear over a few months as the body processes and eliminates the destroyed fat cells, revealing a more contoured figure.

How Does CoolSculpting Work?

• CoolSculpting works by targeting fat deposits in specific areas of the body.
• The cooling technology freezes fat cells, which later die and are expelled through the lymphatic system.
• Over the course of 3 to 6 months, the body naturally eliminates these dead fat cells, leading to a slimmer and more contoured appearance.

Treatment Areas

CoolSculpting is FDA-approved for treating fat in multiple areas, including:

• Abdomen
• Flanks (love handles)
• Thighs (inner and outer)
• Upper arms
• Back fat and bra fat
• Double chin (submental fat)
• Under the buttocks (banana roll)

Potential Side Effects of CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising
• Numbness or tingling in the treated area
• Mild discomfort or sensitivity
• Rare cases of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where fat cells expand instead of shrinking

What is CoolTone?

CoolTone is a muscle-toning treatment that uses magnetic muscle stimulation (MMS) to strengthen and tone muscles. Unlike CoolSculpting, which reduces fat, CoolTone enhances muscle definition by inducing involuntary muscle contractions.

CoolTone is designed for individuals who are already at or near their ideal body weight but want more defined and firmer muscles. This treatment works well for fitness enthusiasts, athletes, or anyone looking to enhance their muscle tone and strength. With consistent treatments, CoolTone provides visible improvements in muscle definition and overall body composition.

How Does CoolTone Work?

• The CoolTone device sends electromagnetic pulses deep into muscle tissues, causing rapid contractions.
• These contractions are stronger than voluntary muscle contractions, leading to enhanced muscle firmness and tone.
• Over time, muscle fibers become denser and more defined, creating a sculpted look.

Treatment Areas

CoolTone is FDA-cleared for muscle toning and strengthening in the following areas:

• Abdomen
• Buttocks
• Thighs

Potential Side Effects of CoolTone

CoolTone is non-invasive and safe, but some individuals may experience:

• Temporary muscle soreness (similar to post-workout soreness)
• Mild redness or swelling
• Tingling sensations in the treated area
• Not recommended for individuals with metal implants or pacemakers due to electromagnetic stimulation

Key Differences Between CoolTone and CoolSculpting

Cost Comparison: CoolSculpting vs. CoolTone

The cost of each treatment depends on the treatment area, number of sessions, and clinic location.

• CoolSculpting Cost: $600 – $1,500 per treatment area
• CoolTone Cost: $750 – $1,500 per session
• Treatment Plan: Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results

While CoolSculpting is more expensive per session, the results are often long-lasting, as fat cells do not regenerate. CoolTone may require ongoing sessions to maintain muscle tone.

Can You Combine CoolSculpting and CoolTone?

Yes! In fact, many people choose to combine CoolSculpting and CoolTone to achieve both fat reduction and muscle definition. This combination treatment is often called dual sculpting.

• Step 1: CoolSculpting eliminates excess fat, creating a leaner foundation.
• Step 2: CoolTone strengthens and tones the underlying muscles, enhancing overall definition.
• Best Candidates: Individuals who want to sculpt a more defined midsection, toned buttocks, or leaner thighs.

Which Treatment is Right for You?

Choosing between CoolSculpting and CoolTone depends on your body goals:

• Choose CoolSculpting if you have stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise.
• Choose CoolTone if you want to enhance muscle definition and strength.
• Consider Both if you want a complete transformation by reducing fat and building muscle simultaneously.

Conclusion

Both CoolSculpting and CoolTone offer non-invasive solutions for body contouring, but they serve different purposes. CoolSculpting is ideal for fat reduction, while CoolTone is perfect for muscle toning. Many patients achieve the best results by combining both treatments to create a more sculpted and toned appearance.

If you’re unsure which treatment is right for you, consult with a licensed provider to determine the best plan based on your goals and body composition.

Ready to achieve your dream body? Book a consultation today!