What Is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a form of cryolipolysis, which takes advantage of fat cells’ higher freezing temperatures. Because fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than surrounding tissues, like your muscles and skin, CoolSculpting crystallizes fat cells so your body can begin breaking them down. This process involves suction and chilling targeted areas, like:
- Love handles
- Thighs
- Muffin tops
- Flanks
- Back
- Arms
- Chin
- Chest
You can even get multiple areas targeted per session.
The process may involve some discomfort from pinching or pulling but should be relatively painless. Immediately after, medical staff may provide a massage to help break down the fat. Some patients find the massage uncomfortable.
Risks and Side Effects
Immediately after the treatment, you may experience redness and irritation. The treated area might be firm to the touch. The skin may be blanched (quite pale) or slightly bruised around the treatment area. Patients can also experience tingling and stinging. Side effects may dissipate within a few hours.
For some, minor side effects can last up to two weeks, including:
- Redness
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Cramping
- Aching
- Itching
- Skin sensitivity
- Tingling
- Numbness
All side effects should resolve themselves with time.
As a non-invasive alternative to liposuction or a tummy tuck, risks are minimal for most patients. It can cause nerve pain. Few patients experience paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), which causes an increase in fat cells in the treatment area.
If you have a hernia, CoolSculpting can make it worse. In some cases, it can cause hernias.
Recovering From CoolSculpting
Since the procedure is non-invasive, most patients can return to their normal daily activities after their treatment. If you have any particular concerns, you may need to talk to your doctor. Call us at 775-826-4477 to learn more, or schedule your consultation today.
