Get the Answers to Your CoolSculpting FAQs
CoolSculpting, the amazing nonsurgical method of eliminating unwanted body fat, has now been around for five years. Hard to believe, right? In that time, plastic surgeons who offer the procedure have accumulated some common inquiries from their patients about the process, the side effects, and the recovery.
Here are the answers to your burning FAQs about CoolSculpting:
So…What Exactly is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a procedure developed by two Massachusetts doctors that involves removing fat cells using freezing technology. Fat cells are more susceptible to cold than other tissue cells, so they freeze and die at much lower temperatures. After the treatment, your body eliminates the dead cells naturally, like any other dead cells throughout your body tissues.
How Does CoolSculpting Work?
The procedure requires special equipment, including a vacuum applicator. The doctor places the applicator on the area where you want fat cells removed, then the vacuum action holds your skin tissue in place between two panels that cool the tissue down. The applicator is connected to a central console, which monitors the temperature of your skin and adjusts the cooling as needed to make sure that it is applied uniformly and consistently. It also lets the doctor know when the cooling is complete.
How is CoolSculpting Different from Laser or Ultrasound Technology?
It’s true that there are other technologies that exist to eliminate unwanted fat; however, CoolSculpting targets only fat cells. When it’s performed correctly, the other tissues in your body are not affected. Other technologies, including laser and ultrasound treatments, also target fat cells, but they are more likely to have a negative effect on any surrounding tissues.
What are the CoolSculpting Treatments Like?
Each treatment takes about an hour. You come into the doctor’s office, stretch out on the table, and then kick back for the duration of the treatment. There’s no anesthesia, no numbing agents, and no incisions. You can read a book, watch television, or even take a nap! Once the treatment is complete, the doctor will remove the applicator and you can get right up and head out the door.
Where Can I Get CoolSculpting Treatments on My Body?
Currently, CoolSculpting has been approved by the FDA for the back, abdomen, hips, inner and outer thighs, and the flanks.
What are the Side Effects of CoolSculpting?
Your skin may be slightly red following the treatment from being in the vacuum applicator. There’s also a possibility that you’ll develop some bruising in the treatment area. However, these will be mild and will go away after a few days.
How Soon Can I Expect Results?
Since your body is getting rid the dead fat cells naturally, you won’t see results right away. It takes about four months for your body to go through the entire process.
How Long Will My Results Last?
As long as you maintain healthy, normal body weight levels, the results could last as long as ten to fifteen years!
Who is an Ideal Candidate for CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting patients should be generally healthy with a relatively active lifestyle, but have areas of excess fat that prevent their body from looking toned and sculpted. CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution, so it is not ideal for people who are significantly overweight. It’s also not a substitute for liposuction or other similar procedures.
How Do I Schedule a CoolSculpting Treatment?
You can start learning more about CoolSculpting and how it can work for you by calling our office at (480) 451-1700 or sending us your information through our Contact page. We’ll set you up with a CoolSculpting consultation with Dr. Daniel Shapiro, a board-certified plastic surgeon with almost twenty years of experience treating patients. Dr. Shapiro’s practice in Scottsdale, AZ offers a wide variety of surgical and nonsurgical procedures to help you achieve all your ideal body goals. Contact us today to schedule your own personal appointment!
