All You Need to Know About CoolSculpting: Common Questions Answered

All You Need to Know About CoolSculpting: Common Questions Answered

At the Park Slope Laser Aesthetic Center, we’re often met with a myriad of questions about CoolSculpting. As a non-invasive, FDA-approved fat reduction procedure, it has become increasingly popular over the past few years. We understand that our patients, and those considering the treatment, want to be well-informed about the procedure. So, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions and provided comprehensive answers to better equip you with the knowledge you need.

1. What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is a non-surgical, fat-reducing treatment that uses controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat that resists all efforts through diet and exercise. The results are proven, noticeable, and lasting, so you can look and feel your best.

2. How does CoolSculpting work?

The CoolSculpting procedure safely delivers precisely controlled cooling to gently and effectively target the fat cells underneath the skin. These treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), then die. Over time, your body naturally processes the fat and eliminates these dead cells, leaving a more sculpted you.

3. Is CoolSculpting safe?

CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in various regions of the body. As with any medical procedure, it's important to consult with your provider to see if CoolSculpting is right for you.

4. How much does CoolSculpting cost?

The price for CoolSculpting varies depending on your areas of concern, the number of treatments needed, and your ultimate goals. We'd be happy to schedule a one-on-one consultation to provide a customized treatment plan tailored to your body, budget, and beauty goals.

5. What areas can CoolSculpting treat?

CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared to treat visible fat bulges in nine areas of the body, including the abdomen, flank (love handles), thigh, bra fat, back fat, underneath the buttocks (also known as banana roll), upper arm, and the submental and submandibular areas (double chin).

6. How long does a CoolSculpting session take?

The duration of your CoolSculpting session will vary depending on the number of areas being treated during one visit. While some patients have more than one treatment during the same office visit, others schedule additional treatments. A typical treatment can last between 1 to 3 hours.

7. How many CoolSculpting treatments are needed to see results?

While you'll see up to a 20-25% fat reduction in the treated area after a single treatment, it largely depends on the individual and the extent of the fat deposit. Some people get the results they want from just one treatment, while others choose to have a second treatment for final tweaks or to treat additional areas.

8. Does CoolSculpting hurt?

During the procedure, you may experience sensations of pulling, tugging, mild pinching, intense cold, tingling, stinging, aching, and cramping at the treatment site. These sensations subside as the area becomes numb.

9. What are the side effects of CoolSculpting?

Typical side effects include temporary redness, swelling, blanching, bruising, firmness, tingling, stinging, tenderness, cramping, aching, itching, or skin sensitivity. However, these are temporary and generally resolve within days or weeks.

10. Is CoolSculpting permanent?

Once the treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), they die and are naturally processed and eliminated from the body. Once the treated fat cells are gone, they're gone for good.

11. What is the recovery time for CoolSculpting?

One of the biggest benefits of CoolSculpting is that there's no recovery time following the treatment. You'll be able to return to your regular activities right after the procedure.

12. CoolSculpting vs Liposuction: which is better?

While both methods are effective for reducing fat, they serve different purposes and have different levels of invasiveness. CoolSculpting is a non-surgical, non-invasive, and relatively comfortable procedure, while liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves incisions and recovery time. Your choice would largely depend on your health, desired results, and willingness to undergo surgery.

13. Can I exercise after CoolSculpting?

Yes, you can return to your normal exercise routine immediately after the CoolSculpting procedure.

14. What happens to the fat after CoolSculpting?

After the fat cells have been targeted and frozen, your body naturally processes the fat and eliminates these dead cells. Once the fat cells are gone, they're gone for good.

15. How soon will I see results from CoolSculpting?

Many people start to see changes as quickly as 3 weeks after their treatment, and experience the most dramatic results after 2 months. Your body will still continue to flush out fat cells for up to 4 to 6 months after treatment.

16. Are there any contraindications for CoolSculpting?

Yes, certain medical conditions like cryoglobulinemia, cold agglutinin disease, or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria could make CoolSculpting dangerous for you. It's important to fully disclose your medical history with your doctor before undergoing the treatment.

CoolSculpting is an innovative way to contour your body by freezing unwanted fat away with no surgery or downtime. For more information about CoolSculpting or to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists, please contact the Park Slope Laser Aesthetic Center today.