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First approved for use in the United States in 2010, CoolSculpting (cryolipolysis) is a non-surgical treatment that reduces fat in problem areas by destroying fat cells. Developed after it was observed that children who ate frozen treats developed swelling and redness in their cheeks several hours after eating the cold treats (a phenomenon referred to as Popsicle panniculitis),
CoolSculpting is meant for use in patients who haven’t had success with diet and exercise alone. Results are often long-lasting and noticeable. Your medical professional can help you determine if CoolSculpting could help minimize fat in problem areas where you struggle most.
How CoolSculpting Works*
CoolSculpting is a loss of fat cells, not a traditional "weight loss" technique. Weight loss reduces the size of fat cells, while ‘fat freezing’ may make fat cells go away.* As the name implies, it uses cool temperatures to sculpt the body as fat cells are frozen. The frozen cells underneath the skin die and naturally leave the body.
The procedure is performed in a comfortable setting with a special machine, or CoolSculpting system, that delivers the targeted cold to the specific area of the body that's being treated. A gel pad and applicator are used to treat selected areas. In some cases, multiple areas of the body may be able to be treated during the same session.
Since it is not an invasive procedure, downtime following CoolSculpting is minimal. Most people who have the procedure are able to return to their normal activities after the session is completed.
During the session, there may be some intense cold that is experienced, or other mild discomforts. However, such sensations usually go away once the area being treated becomes numb. Overall, the risks are minimal. A typical treatment will take about 30-60 minutes to complete, depending on the specific area or areas that are being treated.
What Happens After CoolSculpting?*
After an area has been treated, the dead fat cells may slowly be eliminated from the body. These cells may not return afterward, because they have been damaged during treatment.
For maximum results, it's advisable to make healthy eating choices by avoiding foods with excessive fat and "empty calories" that can't easily be burned. Adopting a regular exercise or fitness routine may also be beneficial, although there are no specific requirements to make such adjustments or take dietary supplements.
CoolSculpting typically results in a 20-25 percent reduction in fat cells in the treated area. Fat cells in untreated areas will not be affected. Since the fat cells are eliminated, they do not travel to or accumulate in other areas of the body. Talk to your medical professional about the results that you are likely to experience following the treatment.
Number of CoolSculpting Sessions Needed
You may see the preferred results after one session. Before deciding on another treatment, it is recommended that patients wait for several weeks to see if fat cell loss continues. Some areas of stubborn fat may need to be treated with multiple sessions. This may also be the case if different areas of fat will need to treated. Your medical professional will give you an idea of what you can expect.
When to Consider CoolSculpting
While it can be an effective treatment, CoolSculpting isn't meant to be the first attempt at weight loss. If you're not having any luck with your diet and exercise, especially in certain areas, it may be a treatment option that can help you achieve the results that you are looking for. Similar to the candidacy for liposuction, CoolSculpting is a procedure meant to target "bulges," or areas where fat is more prominent. However, unlike liposuction, there is no penetration of the skin involved. For some people, CoolSculpting an alternative option prior to considering any type of surgical procedure.
Focuses on eliminating stubborn fat in specific areas for a sculpted, toned look.
Experience a transformative body contouring solution without surgery or recovery time.
Sessions are quick and comfortable, allowing you to relax while achieving your body goals.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to CoolSculpting. Prior to having a treatment session, you will have an individual consultation. It is during this time that you will have an opportunity to discuss your weight loss goals and determine what “problem areas” you have that you would like to be treated. You may also be asked about previous attempts you’ve made to lose weight in your trouble spots and what results you have seen with those previous efforts.
Preferred candidates only have specific problem spots rather than fat that is evenly distributed. For instance, you may be already exercising regularly and still having trouble with fat on thighs or the abdomen that won’t go away no matter how many sit-ups, crunches, curls, or lifts you do. Whether or not CoolSculpting is right for you will be determined during your initial consultation. The treatment is FDA-approved for use on “visible bulges” of fat in locations that may include:
- Thighs
- Underneath the buttocks
- Abdominal area
- Back fat
- “Bra” fat
- Side thighs or “flank”
- Chin fat
Results from CoolSculpting may appear as early three weeks after treatment. Many patients see more dramatic results within 2-3 months following the procedure. Fat cells may continue to be naturally flushed out for as long as six months or so after treatment. While weight may be gained back over time, many people who see positive results with CoolSculpting are motivated to make equally positive lifestyle adjustments with diet and exercise. Millions of procedures have been performed since the technique first become available, and patients everywhere are discovering how CoolSculpting can help them get the results that they are looking for.
To learn more about CoolSculpting, contact us today in order to schedule a consultation. During this initial step, your medical professional can talk with you about your current problem areas and the results that you expect to experience. If CoolSculpting is determined to be the best next step for you, your doctor can help you understand what to expect when it comes to number of treatments, timeline of results, preparation for the treatment, and more.