How Does CoolSculpting Work? Here’s What You Need To Know.
As people turn to non-surgical alternatives to achieve their ideal body shape, CoolSculpting has surged in popularity. The treatment is designed to target specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, love handles, thighs, and arms. But does it really provide results that are worth the hype? Let’s dig in!
What Is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved, non-surgical fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat that is resistant to diet and exercise.
It works by freezing fat cells in the targeted area, causing them to crystallize and die. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these dead fat cells, resulting in a reduction of fat in the treated area.
It is important to note that CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution. It’s a body contouring treatment that can help reduce the appearance of stubborn fat in areas such as the abdomen, love handles, thighs, and arms.
The good news is — CoolSculpting results are permanent! Once the fat cells are eliminated from the body, they’re gone for good.
The Science Behind CoolSculpting
Cryolipolysis
CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction procedure that uses a technology called cryolipolysis to freeze and eliminate stubborn fat cells, which are sensitive to cold temperatures. Cryolipolysis works by targeting and cooling fat cells to a temperature that triggers their natural death, without harming the surrounding tissue.
Where does the fat go?
After the fat cells are frozen, they undergo a natural process of cell death. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these dead fat cells through its lymphatic system. The fat reduction results are gradual and noticeable, with most patients seeing a significant reduction in the treated area within two to four months.
Is CoolSculpting different from liposuction?
Unlike liposuction, CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that does not require any incisions or anesthesia. While liposuction involves surgically removing fat cells from the body, CoolSculpting eliminates fat cells through a natural process of cell death and elimination. This means that there’s no downtime or recovery period. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.
Where does CoolSculpting work best?
CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared to treat visible fat bulges in the submental area (double chin), thigh, abdomen, and flank, along with bra fat, back fat, underneath the buttocks (also known as banana roll), and upper arm. (Be sure to check out these transformations!) While CoolSculpting is a versatile treatment, it’s important to note that it’s not a weight loss solution and isn’t intended to treat obesity.
CoolSculpting for cellulite
A common question is whether CoolSculpting treats cellulite. Cellulite is caused by fibrous bands that connect the skin to underlying muscle. CoolScultping doesn’t specifically treat cellulite. But treating visible fat bulges with CoolSculpting does result in a smoother, more contoured appearance overall.
The CoolSculpting Procedure Process
Consultation
The first step in the process is a consultation with a licensed CoolSculpting provider. During the consultation, the provider will assess the patient’s overall health, medical history, and desired results. Then, they’ll discuss a personalized treatment plan based on the patient’s goals.
Treatment
Treatment typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes per area, depending on the size and number of areas being treated. During the treatment, the provider applies the device to the targeted area. The applicator delivers controlled cooling to the fat cells, which causes them to freeze and eventually die.
Recovery
One of the greatest benefits of the CoolSculpting procedure is there’s no downtime required. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the treatment. Some patients may experience mild discomfort, redness, or bruising in the treated area. But these side effects typically resolve within a few days.
How Effective Is CoolSculpting?
Now, onto the info everyone really wants to know:
- Does CoolSculpting work?
- How long does it take to see results?
- Are the results permanent?
Don’t worry — we’ve got answers!
Short-Term Results
CoolSculpting results are not immediate. But patients may start to see changes as early as three weeks after treatment. The most significant results are usually seen between one and three months after the procedure.
The effectiveness of CoolSculpting varies from person to person. The amount of fat reduction achieved depends on the individual’s body type, the number of treatment areas, and the amount of fat in each area. Patients who maintain a healthy lifestyle following the procedure may experience better results.
Long-Term Results
The long-term effectiveness of CoolSculpting has been studied, and results have shown that the treatment can provide long-lasting fat reduction. However, it’s important to note that CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution. It’s not a substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Some patients may require multiple treatments to achieve their desired results. CoolSculpting can reduce up to 25% of fat in the treated area, and the results can last for years if the patient maintains a healthy lifestyle.
CoolSculpting in Rochester, New York
It’s easy to see why CoolSculpting has gained popularity in recent years. Who doesn’t want a more contoured physique without the hassle of surgery?
Whether you’re interested in CoolSculpting for your arms, chin, belly, hips, or something else — ditch the frustration of diets and exercise fads that haven’t produced results on stubborn fat that just won’t budge.
Talk to Terry — our CoolSculpting specialist — to see if this treatment is the right choice for you. Consultations are free and easy to schedule!
Penfield OBGYN has two convenient locations in Penfield, NY and Farmington, NY. We’re proud to serve Rochester, NY and the entire Western New York region!