What to Expect Before and After Coolsculpting
If you’ve been on a weight loss journey for a while, you probably know how challenging and frustrating it can be when those pounds just won’t seem to disappear, no matter what you do. So you may be looking into alternative options. One increasingly popular treatment for shrinking fat cells is called CoolSculpting. And it’s not only quick and effective, but it requires no surgery at all.
What to Know About CoolSculpting
Benefits of CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting is a relatively new procedure for fat loss. This fat freezing (also known as cryotherapy) procedure helps remove extra fat cells from underneath the skin without having to undergo surgery. Unlike other treatment options like liposuction, CoolSculpting is a totally non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require any form of anesthesia. Instead, the treatment involves use of a gel that is spread over the area you’d like to target. After this gel is applied, a cooling device is hooked up to that area. This special device passes liquid through it and continually cools it with a piece at the base of the machine.
Another variation of this procedure utilizes suction technology to firmly clamp down and pull fat into the machine, providing even more effective cooling. The goal of this procedure is to freeze unwanted fat in any one area of the body. Since the procedure is non-invasive, very little downtime is necessary after the surgery, and there’s no risk of damage to the surrounding tissue, unlike other fat removal techniques. Within days and weeks after treatment, the body naturally eliminates the frozen, dead fat cells on its own.
A CoolSculpting session can last anywhere from one to two hours, depending on the method used. Once a session is over, a brief massage is administered, and you can return to your day!
Does CoolSculpting Work?
The short answer is yes, CoolSculpting is highly effective. That’s why it’s the #1 non-invasive, FDA-cleared procedure designed to target and shrink stubborn fat cells. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this method may require more than one treatment. Similar to cosmetic treatments like chemical peels, injectables, and laser tattoo removal, it can take a few sessions to see the results you want. The measurable results typically appear within two to four months of receiving the CoolSculpting treatment. Most people show a 20-25% reduction in the targeted fatty areas.
Some people may experience a rash on stomach areas treated by the gel. Others may feel some tenderness in the treated area for a few days or weeks following the procedure. The average price for CoolSculpting ranges between $2,000-$4,000, which may end up being more or less costly depending on the size of the area being treated.
CoolSculpting should not be relied on as an overall weight loss method. It’s important to develop healthy habits and an active lifestyle to manage your weight, and these may be requirements to qualify for this treatment.
Contact Vanguard Dermatology
Want to see if you’re a candidate for CoolSculpting? If you’re located in the greater New York City area, contact Vanguard Dermatology today for an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists.