CoolSculpting is a revolutionary cosmetic procedure that eliminates fat deposits without surgical intervention. Although there are numerous clear advantages to CoolSculpting and other cryolipolysis-based treatments, it is nonetheless important to consider the risks before undergoing the procedure.
What is CoolSclupting?
CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat removal procedure that involves destroying fat cells in targeted areas. The cooling process kills the fat cells, which are flushed from the body after approximately two weeks post-treatment. The full effect of the procedure appears within four months.
The process of “freezing” fat for the purposes of body contouring is called cryolipolysis. The technique involves applying thermal conduction instruments that cool fat to levels below normal body temperature but above the point of triggering frostbite or tissue damage. The targeted area is vacuumed into the cooling applicator and allowed to cool to the targeted temperature.
The process takes 35-45 minutes, depending upon the area being treated and the applicator being used. One of the main benefits of CoolSculpting is the fact that there is no recovery time, and patients can return to work or other normal activities immediately after treatment.
Are there side effects of CoolSculpting?
Because CoolSculpting is a noninvasive treatment that requires no incisions, medications, or anesthesia, the risk of complications from infection or allergic reaction is extremely low. However, a very small percentage of patients reported the following side effects:
- Soreness at the treatment site
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Redness
- Numbness
Your physician will determine whether or not you are a good candidate for CoolSculpting. However, if you have the following conditions, you should not undergo CoolSculpting or any cryolipolysis procedure:
- Cold agglutinin disease
- Cryoglobulinemia
- Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
It should be noted that CoolSculpting should not be used as a treatment for obesity. CoolSculpting and cryolipolysis is best used to remove or reduce stubborn fat deposits that will not diminish using standard weight-loss solutions alone (diet and exercise).
How effective is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting has been found to reduce the volume of fat cells in the treated area by as much as 25 percent. Because the procedure destroys fat cells, they are removed from the body for life, though new fat cells can develop in the body over time if the patient does not maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Numerous studies have found CoolSculpting to be a highly effective fat reduction solution for the right candidates with no significant risk factors connected to the procedure. With no scarring, no downtime, minimal risks of complications and long-term positive results, CoolSculpting is becoming an increasingly popular procedure for a diverse population of patients.