CoolSculpting

What is CoolSculpting?

Developed by Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital scientists, CoolSculpting eliminates unwanted fat by a specialized cooling technology known as cryolipolysis. CoolSculpting involves the use of small, paddle-like applicators that provide extreme cold to targeted areas. During the treatment, patients may feel a tingling, pulling or pinching sensation that subsides as the tissue becomes numb. After the session, crystallized fat cells break down and are naturally eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system over the course of several months.

This non-surgical procedure generally takes one hour, though longer sessions are needed for multiple treatment areas. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing is the only preparation needed. Most patients can comfortably watch TV, read or listen to music during the treatment.

Unlike other body shaping procedures such as liposuction, CoolSculpting is not intended for large accumulations of excess fat, and is more appropriate for people in good health who are within a few pounds of their “ideal weight.”

CoolSculpting provides discreet fat removal for areas including:

• Upper and lower abdomen
• Thighs
• Flank/love handles
• Back
• Bra area
• Buttocks
• Under chin

Most patients see a 20 to 25 percent reduction in fat after the first CoolSculpting treatment, but additional sessions can maximize results. Dr. B. Aviva Preminger designs an individualized treatment plan for each patient that takes into account aesthetic goals.

CoolSculpting risks

Because CoolSculpting is non-surgical and requires no anesthesia, the risk for complications is much lower. This technology has been widely used in Europe for many years prior to FDA clearance, and consistently enjoys a high safety profile with no long-term risks or reports of serious complications. The most common CoolSculpting side effects are transient in nature and usually include bruising and numbness in the area where the cooling device was placed.

Some patients experience no side effects during or after the treatment. Others may notice a tugging or pulling sensation during the procedure as the fat cells are frozen.

The cooling device is designed so that only adipose cells are affected, and surrounding tissue is not damaged. Afterwards, the skin may be red and slightly inflamed for a few hours. Tingling and numbness are not unusual, and any discomfort is usually minimal.

CoolSculpting is not recommended for patients with certain disorders including cryoglobulinemia, Raynaud’s disease, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, or cold agglutinin disease.

CoolSculpting reviews

Intense workouts and healthy eating can only go so far when it comes to pesky stomach roles and expanding love handles. Genetic predisposition and fluctuating hormones can make banishing a muffin top virtually impossible without the benefit of body contouring technology. Exercise and a clean diet reduce fat cells temporarily, whereas CoolSculpting freezes and eliminates fat for good.

Since its U.S. debut in 2010, CoolSculpting has gained notoriety as a safe and painless fat reduction method – one that is accomplished with no needles, no scars and no recovery time.

Many patients are able to fit a CoolSculpting appointment into their lunch break.

This groundbreaking treatment is getting rave reviews from patients of all walks of life including mothers who want their pre-baby tummies back to those with inherited love handles and “saddle bags” around the thighs.