Does CoolSculpting® Really Work?

With the rising popularity of non-surgical body contouring treatments, it’s hard to avoid hearing everything about CoolSculpting®. Whether it’s online ads, your friends talking about it, or doing research on how to get rid of stubborn fat, CoolSculpting is likely one thing that keeps popping up. It’s normal to wonder what the hype is about, and it’s always important to be informed before jumping in. Here’s what to know about CoolSculpting and whether it’s worth your budget.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is one of the latest options in a new type of treatment called non-surgical body contouring. Traditionally, body contouring was reserved for plastic surgery, but CoolSculpting can achieve long-term fat reduction without the need for incisions or downtime. It works by administering controlled cooling energy to the fat cells under the skin without damaging the surrounding tissues (a process called cryolipolysis). This process causes the fat cells to crystalize and die off over time so they can be removed through the normal lymphatic pathways of the body. The result is a slimmer, more defined look to your treatment areas.

The Pros and Cons of CoolSculpting

As with any procedure, there are some things to consider. Keep in mind that there are pros and cons to any treatment, but Dr. Ness and team can help you determine whether CoolSculpting is worth it for you and your goals.

Pros

No incisions or downtime
Customizable to virtually any treatment area
Long-term results

Cons

Results aren’t immediate
May require multiple treatments for best results
Results in fat loss, not weight loss

What Happens During Treatment?

Then, you’ll lay down and relax while your technician treats your chosen areas. It works by applying a specialized handpiece that is specifically molded for your treatment area and suctions the skin and tissue into an applicator. This allows the cooling energy to be directly applied with pre-programmed control. You’ll feel some very cold temperatures at first, but the area quickly numbs. You can relax and catch up on your book, show, or podcast while you undergo treatment. Overall, it can take about thirty minutes or more depending on your treatment area and whether you opt for more than one. Once complete, you can return home.

Your Treatment Package and Results

You can expect some redness, swelling, and numbness after treatment, that could last a couple of weeks with little to no discomfort. There’s no downtime required, so you can return to your regular activities (even exercise) afterward. You’ll begin to see your final results emerge over the course of a few months, which can be improved with subsequent treatment sessions. Dr. Ness and team can recommend the ideal treatment package for you based on your goals and treatment areas – your sessions are usually spaced 30-45 days apart. Once you complete your treatment package, you’ll see a permanent reduction in fatty tissue in your treatment area.