Are you unhappy with the way you look like 83 percent of women and 74 percent of men? Have you tried it all to lose that stubborn belly or thigh fat—various diets, exercise programs, and calorie counters? There are other options, including a non-invasive and non-surgical method called CoolSculpting.
Since the FDA approved CoolSculpting treatments in 2010, treatments have increased by 823 percent. Are you wondering how does CoolSculpting work? Let’s take a look at this procedure and tell you what you should know.
How Does CoolSculpting Work?
CoolSculpting uses a fat reduction process called cryolipolysis. This process uses freezing temperatures to break down your body’s fat cells. The cold temperatures do not hurt additional cells like the fat cells, so there is no harm to the skin or other tissue.
A practitioner takes vacuums skin above the fatty tissue into a device that cools the fat cells. Then the cold temperatures numb the treated area. Most people say they don’t feel much other than a cooling feeling.
There is no recovery time since the skin and tissue are not damaged. Some people report being a little sore but not any different than the feeling after an intense workout.
It takes about an hour for each body part. Some body parts need multiple CoolSculpting treatments for results.
The fat cells leave the body in about 4-6 months after the procedure. A study found that some people reduced their fat layer by as much as 25 percent.
Areas for CoolSculpting Treatments
There are several areas of the body that are popular for CoolSculpting treatment including:
- Lower back
- Stomach
- Sides
- Thighs
It can also reduce cellulite on buttocks, arms, and legs. The excess fat under the chin is also another target.
What to Expect
During your treatment, you sit back and relax while the fat is frozen away fro your body. You should bring something to do during your treatment like your phone, book, or magazine.
The procedure begins with taking measurements and photographs of the targeted area. Then an applicator attaches to the CoolSculpting device to the body. The practitioner chooses the applicator based on the shape, size, and amount of fat.
Applicators have various levels of suction. The practitioner wants to make sure there is no space between the skin surface and the applicator’s surface, so the cold temperature can be adjusted accordingly.
CoolSculpting does not tighten loose skin. If the skin is stretched near the fatty buildup, you may need to get that extra skin removed after the procedure.
You can return to work or regular activities immediately since there is no surgery involved. Talk to your provider about treating more than one body part in a single day if you are interested. Depending on what you need, you may be able to do a couple treatments in one day.
After the CoolSculpting Treatment
After the treatment, your body will get rid of the dead and crystallized fat cells after they processed through the liver. The results are not immediate because the body needs to eliminate the dead cells. Typical results are seen about three months after the procedure.
You may need more than one treatment depending on your goals and how much stubborn fat you are looking to eliminate, your metabolism, and your initial body shape.
Most side effects are limited to the local area. Possible side effects include:
- Pain, aching, or stinging
- Redness, bruising, or swelling
- Delayed pain
- Sensitivity
- Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) which happens when the treated area has an adverse response and gradually enlarges
PAH reactions are extremely rare. Most patients report the pain feeling like a slight muscle injury or soreness are working out your muscles.
Most of these side effects are temporary and resolve within a few weeks. A study found that less than 1 percent of people had complications from this procedure.
CoolSculpting is Different Than Liposuction
CoolSculpting is a fat reduction treatment like liposuction. The results are also comparable, but the two procedures are very different.
Liposuction removes the fat cells surgically. CoolSculpting is a non-surgical treatment that is less expensive and effective for permanent fat loss.
Liposuction results are immediate but do involve surgery. You have to weigh the options that work for you.
If you need to lose a lot of fat and weight, you may want to consider liposuction. If you only have some stubborn fat, CoolSculpting may be a better option for you if you want something non-surgical.
Do Results Last?
Your results should last permanently. This is because the procedure kills the fat cells, so they do not return.
You can gain weight after the treatment if you do not make wise lifestyle choices. This is why you should already live a healthy lifestyle if you want to have this procedure.
Who Can Get CoolSculpting?
Are you wondering if you are a good candidate for CoolSculpting? Not everyone is a great candidate because this procedure is meant to get rid of stubborn fat that exercise and diet cannot change.
Good candidates for CoolSculpting include people who are:
- Near their target weight
- Overall healthy
- Not pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Able to pinch about an inch of fat in the targeted area
- Tired of dealing with stubborn fat
It’s important that you have a complete understanding of the treatment. Most people that get this procedure are in good shape and toned other than that stubborn fat area.
Ready to Learn More?
The FDA has approved CoolSculpting. Six million people have had this procedure done with a satisfaction rate of 73 percent, which is higher than most other non-invasive treatments.
The best way to answer the question does CoolSculpting work is to talk to a professional and get a consultation specific to your body and needs.
If you feel you are a good candidate after reading this article, we would love to talk to you to answer any questions.
Book a free consultation with us today. Give us a call or choose your location. We offer a variety of services to help you look your best.