What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a nonsurgical body contouring treatment that uses cryolipolysis (the medical term for fat freezing) to target and reduce stubborn areas of fat that have resisted diet and exercise.
First cleared by the FDA in 2010, this fat reduction procedure has become so popular because it freezes and destroys fat cells without harming the surrounding tissues, so it carries a low risk of serious side effects and comes with no downtime.
Over several weeks following the treatment, the body naturally metabolizes and permanently eliminates the fat cells.
CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared for treating stubborn pockets of fat on several areas of the body, including:
- the abdomen
- the flanks (aka love handles)
- bra and back fat
- the inner and outer thighs
- the upper arms
- buttock rolls (also called banana rolls)
Ideal candidates for CoolSculpting are healthy adults within 20 pounds of their ideal weight, with good skin elasticity (so it can bounce back once the fat is removed) and a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or less. Another requirement is having at least ⅔ of an inch of pinchable fat, to fit into the CoolSculpting applicator.
You should start to see some results about 30 days post-procedure, with more significant results visible within two to three months of your final treatment.
CoolSculpting results can be permanent, as long as you don’t gain weight afterward. The fat cells eliminated after the treatment are permanently gone, but any remaining cells can still expand. Weight gain can even lead to contour irregularities, if more numerous fat cells in surrounding areas expand.
A healthy diet and regular exercise will help you make the most of your investment.
