CoolSculpting is the ultimate way to reduce areas of modest excess body fat without surgery. The procedure is fast and accurate, and the results are long lasting. If you are considering this procedure, you may have some questions concerning CoolSculpting before and after the procedure — questions such as:
- What do I need to do to prepare?
- How does CoolSculpting work?
- Am I a good candidate for CoolSculpting?
- How much does CoolSculpting cost?
- What is CoolSculpting recovery like?
Ultimately, CoolSculpting is a fairly straightforward procedure that doesn’t require much prep and doesn’t have much of a recovery period either. Still, it’s wise to be prepared.
What to Know About CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting Targets Stubborn Fat Areas
CoolSculpting is designed to reduce pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. It works best on areas like the abdomen, thighs, and flanks, where fat tends to accumulate. With that said, it’s not a weight-loss solution and is ideal for people close to their goal weight who need help with specific trouble areas.
You Can Get CoolSculpting Almost Anywhere
With some plastic surgery treatments, the treatment area is isolated. Brazilian butt lifts, for example, are fat transfer procedures that can only transfer fat to the hips and butt area. CoolSculpting treatments can be used for excess fat on the chin (for a double chin), stomach (belly fat), buttocks (and banana roll), inner thighs, outer thighs, flanks, upper arms, and other places too.
For examples of the different ways this technology can be used, we invite you to look up CoolSculpting before and after stomach images, CoolSculpting arms before and after images, CoolSculpting chin before and after pictures, etc. Do keep in mind that results may vary.
The Procedure Is Non-Invasive
Unlike liposuction or other surgical fat-reduction techniques, CoolSculpting does not involve incisions or anesthesia. The treatment uses controlled cooling to freeze and destroy fat cells without harming the skin. This fat is then naturally eliminated by the body over time. The noninvasiveness of the treatment means less downtime and fewer risks compared to invasive procedures.
Multiple Sessions May Be Needed
For some individuals, more than one CoolSculpting session may be necessary. It really depends on what your desired results are. It also depends on the amount of fat in the treatment area you are focusing on. Your provider will help determine how many sessions are needed during your consultation appointment.
CoolSculpting Is Safe for Most People
CoolSculpting is FDA-approved and considered safe for most healthy people. It is important, however, to have a consultation with a licensed practitioner to ensure that you’re a good candidate. Those with certain medical conditions may have to avoid the procedure.
Minimal Downtime After Treatment
One of the biggest advantages of CoolSculpting is the minimal downtime. Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure. Some may experience temporary redness, swelling, or bruising in the treated area, but these side effects usually subside within a few days.
CoolSculpting Is Not a Weight-Loss Treatment
It’s important to understand that CoolSculpting is not a substitute for fat loss (weight loss). It’s meant to contour the body and reduce fat in specific areas, but it will not significantly change your overall weight. A healthy diet and exercise are still necessary to maintain long-term results.
Results Can Be Long-Lasting
Once fat cells are frozen and destroyed by CoolSculpting, they are permanently removed from the body. However, remaining fat cells can still expand with weight gain. Maintaining a stable weight through a healthy lifestyle will help ensure that your CoolSculpting results last.
Mild Discomfort May Occur During Treatment
Although CoolSculpting is not painful, some patients experience mild discomfort during the procedure. The sensation of cold, followed by numbness, is common, as well as a pulling or tugging feeling as the applicator suctions the skin. This discomfort usually subsides after a few minutes.
CoolSculpting Works for Both Men and Women
CoolSculpting is not gender-specific and can help both men and women reduce unwanted fat. Men often target areas like the chest and abdomen, while women may focus on the thighs and flanks. The procedure can be customized to address different body concerns.
Results Are Gradual, Not Immediate
It can take several weeks to months to see the full effects of CoolSculpting. The body needs time to process and remove the dead fat cells, so patience is required. Many people begin to notice changes within three weeks, but full results typically appear after two to three months.
FAQ: CoolSculpting Fat Freezing
Who is the ideal CoolSculpting patient?
The ideal candidate for a CoolSculpting treatment is someone with a slight to modest amount of unwanted subcutaneous fat on their hips, buttocks, inner or outer thigh region, stomach, upper arms, chin, or elsewhere. They should be healthy, a non-smoker, at a stable weight, and with reasonable expectations for treatment.
Can CoolSculpting be used on my love handles?
Absolutely. CoolSculpting is frequently used on the flanks (love handles) to reduce fat there and all the way around the abdomen.
Book Your Consultation Appointment Today
If you have stubborn pockets of fat on your upper arms, chin and neck, lower abdomen, flanks, hips, thighs, or elsewhere, CoolSculpting can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation appointment for CoolSculpting with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita Ramanadham.