Although it sounds too good to be true, it really is that good! CoolSculpting is a minimally invasive procedure used for fat reduction and body contouring. The device used in the procedure targets fat cells so your body may naturally remove them in the following weeks and months.
CoolSculpting is non-invasive, which means no incisions anesthesia, or instruments entering the body. Approved by the FDA, this procedure is safe and effective. Most procedures take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the area the patient wishes to have worked on. Due to there being no damage to the skin, there is no downtime required after the procedure.
Below are the answers to questions that are commonly asked about CoolSculpting:
1. How is CoolSculpting Elite Performed?
The CoolSculpting wand is applied to one area of unwanted fat at a time. These areas typically include one or more of the following:
- Abdomen
- Hips
- Bra-fat
- Inner/outer thighs
- Chin
Using vacuum suction, the device draws in tissue with unwanted fat into a chamber, which uses controlled cooling to freeze fat cells. These cells then go through cryolipolysis or cell death due to freezing, while the surrounding tissue is not harmed. About 25 percent of the fat cells will be permanently destroyed and the body will naturally dispose of them.
2. Is CoolSculpting Elite Painful?
Due to the nature of the pulling and extremely cold temperatures, there is some mild, temporary discomfort. During the procedure you may experience some pulling, mild pinching, tingling, stinging, or cramping; however, many people sit comfortably through the procedure once the temperature falls, and there is a numbing effect.
For about a week after the procedure, some patients may experience some hypersensitivity of the skin in the treated areas as well as tenderness or soreness, similar to muscle soreness after a workout. Many people return to their daily routines immediately following their treatment.
3. Will the Fat Come Back?
As you reach adulthood, the total number of fat cells remains the same, and these cells will get bigger or smaller as you gain or lose weight. CoolSculpting destroys fat cells, which means you then are left with fewer fat cells in your body, so once these cells are destroyed they do not come back. However, if you gain weight, other fat cells may increase in size.
4. How Long Does it Take to See Results?
Results can be seen within 1 to 3 months depending on location and how big of an area was treated. Full results typically take 12 weeks total once any swelling or inflammation has gone away. Many patients need more than one treatment session to achieve their desired results.
5. What Are The Side Effects?
Although this non-invasive procedure has mild side effects, everyone experiences post-treatment differently. Below is a list of common mild side effects patients seem to experience:
- Mild redness
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Numbness of the treated area
These side effects should resolve in 1 to 2 weeks, however, some may experience these a little longer.
6. Can One Lose Weight with CoolSculpting Elite?
CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution. It is used as a body shaping treatment, for those looking to modify the distribution of fat cells. CoolSculpting is generally used to help eliminate fat areas that are hard to eliminate with routine diet and exercise. It is recommended that you lead a healthy lifestyle and a diet and exercise routine; the closer someone is to their ideal body weight, the more you will notice your CoolSculpting results.
7. What Should I do Before and After CoolSculpting Treatment?
Before treatment, avoid anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, to help reduce the chances of bruising. After treatment, you can return to your normal activities immediately, including exercise. It’s essential to maintain your weight after treatments because significant weight gain can compromise results.