Written by Avery Samuels, Reviewed by Dr. Justin Harper, MD
Top Questions About CoolSculpting
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a procedure that uses a technology known as cryolipolysis, or “fat freezing,” to destroy fat cells. The fat cells are slowly eliminated by the body in the subsequent 2 to 3 months, resulting in roughly 20-25% reduction of fat in the treated area.
What areas can be treated?
If you can squeeze it, we can freeze it! Common areas that are treated include the abdomen, flanks, bra fat, arms, thighs, knees, and double chin.
When will I start seeing results after my CoolSculpting treatment?
You can start to see results as soon as 1-month post-treatment. Final results can take up to 6 months to appear. More than one treatment is necessary for most clients, as CoolSculpting targets stubborn areas of fat such as love handles and double chin. Re-treatment occurs 90 days after your first CoolSculpting treatment.
Who is the ideal candidate?
Ideally, CoolSculpting treats fatty areas that do not respond to lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Clients who are at, or are close to, their ideal body weight see the most dramatic results with at least 2 treatments.
Will I need to retreat the area?
Each person’s body is different. However, you will see a 20-25% reduction with each treatment. It is recommended to have at least 2 treatments to each area to achieve the ideal results. A consultation is ideal to assess your body goals and evaluate how they align with CoolSculpting.
What can I do during the treatment?
Depending on the area being treated, treatment time ranges from 35 minutes up to 75 minutes for each area. During this time, you can sit back and relax! Many people take advantage of this time and catch up on emails or watch movies.
Is there downtime?
No! The beauty of CoolSculpting is that it is non-invasive and has no downtime. You can resume your daily life without restriction right after treatment.
What can I expect after the procedure?
There is no downtime associated with the procedure. However, it is common to feel numbness to the area treated for up to 1 month. Other typical side effects include swelling, temporary redness, bruising, tingling, stinging and itching.
My abdomen is hard, and I have been told it is visceral fat. Would I be a good candidate?
CoolSculpting targets subcutaneous fat, the fat that feels soft and squishy. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat protrudes and is firm to the touch. Because of this, CoolSculpting is not the ideal treatment plan as the applicator used cannot grasp the fat to freeze it.
Why not get liposuction?
Liposuction, also a fat removal method is a surgical procedure that usually requires general anesthesia and with a downtime of several days to two weeks. CoolSculpting does not require surgery or anesthesia and has no downtime. This is especially ideal for clients with busy schedules.