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10 Things You Should Know About CoolSculpting

10 Things You Should Know About CoolSculpting

Coolsculpting Is NOT a Surgical Procedure

You have probably heard of liposuction, a surgical procedure that removes fat cells from the body during the procedure. CoolSculpting is non-invasive, basically meaning not surgical. The procedure is done in the office and you can leave as soon as the procedure is completed. Because it is not surgical, the fat cells are not removed the same day as your procedure, which leads us to our next point.

The Frozen Fat Cells Are NOT Removed Immediately

Freezing the cells causes them to die, which takes up to two weeks after your CoolSculpting procedure. It is after this two-week period that your body begins to naturally expel the dead cells through the lymphatic system, the same part of the body that eliminates toxins and other unwanted substances in the body. It can take up to six weeks for you to begin to see results, and maximum results can take up to twelve weeks.

Skin Tightening Is Possible but Not Guaranteed

The good thing about CoolSculpting is the gradual reduction of the fat cells. This gives the skin a chance to rejuvenate itself and naturally tighten as the fat cells are eliminated. With that being said, the bad news is that sometimes the skin is stretched past the point of return. In those cases, you may want to consider skin tightening procedures as well.

CoolSculpting Is NOT a Weight Loss Treatment

Like most surgical and non-surgical body sculpting procedures, CoolSculpting is not a quick weight loss treatment. In fact, you probably will not lose much, if any, actual pounds. Instead, CoolSculpting helps to create body contour. Think about areas like your hips or under your chin, common areas where fat cells are stored. You lose weight but you can’t see a difference. CoolSculpting can break down the fat in these areas to give you a more toned, slender appearance.

You May Need More Than One Treatment

You will have a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Depending on the area being treated and the results you desire, you may need between one and three (maybe more) treatments. This will be determined during your consultation. It is important that you have realistic goals for your results and that you openly discuss your goals with your doctor.

CoolSculpting CAN Be Used in Multiple Areas

CoolSculpting is not just for the abdomen, although it can be used there. You can also get CoolSculpting treatments for the thighs, arms, flanks, back, buttocks and chin.

There Is NO Downtime with CoolSculpting

There is no recovery time after a non-invasive procedure. You can basically go back to your normal activity as soon as your treatment is finished. The procedure is done in the office and can be completed during a 30 to 60-minute time slot. After your treatment, you can return to work, exercise or do whatever you normally do during the day.

There Is SOME Pain with CoolSculpting

It is very minimal, but there is some pain with CoolSculpting, especially if you are sensitive to the cold. It does make your skin very chilly, so just like if you are out in the snow for a long period of time, you may feel some tingling and prickly sensations. The good news is, just like in the snow, after a few minutes the area begins to numb and you no longer feel those sensations. You may also feel some pinching and pulling because of the applicator, but that also is very minimal and is tolerated easily.

The Results Can Be Permanent

CoolSculpting removes about 20% of fat cells in the area being treated. Once the fat cells are removed from the body, they are gone for good. That is why the results are considered long term. If you gain weight after your procedure, the leftover fat cells can get bigger, which may alter your results. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and follow an exercise plan after your CoolSculpting treatments so that you can enjoy long-lasting results.

You May Be A Candidate for CoolSculpting

If you are looking to lose stubborn fat, not excess pounds, then CoolSculpting may be just the thing you need. We recommend that potential patients be within 30 pounds of their goal weight before getting CoolSculpting. The best way to know if you are a candidate is to schedule a consultation with one of our board certified surgeons today!