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CoolSculpting® Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a good candidate for the CoolSculpting® procedure?

The CoolSculpting® fat-reduction procedure is specially designed for those who have unwanted fat in targeted areas. Unlike weight-loss surgery (e.g., gastric bypass), the CoolSculpting® procedure is not a weight-loss solution for people who are obese. Good candidates for the CoolSculpting® procedure have noticeable bulges in certain areas they’d like to get rid of. Many people want a non-surgical alternative to liposuction.



How long is each treatment? How many treatments will I need?

Your CoolSculpting® technisian will help you create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific goals. The length of your CoolSculpting® treatment will vary depending on the number of areas being treated during one visit. The latest technology of CoolSculpting® can treat a patient in 35-60 minutes, some patients have more than one treatment during the same office visit. Some practices even have multiple CoolSculpting® systems and applicators, so it’s possible for a patient to have multiple areas treated at once. You and your provider may also schedule additional treatments or office visits in order to meet your goals.



Can the CoolSculpting® procedure reduce fat anywhere on my body?

In the U .S., the CoolSculpting® procedure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in the submental area, thigh, abdomen and flank, along with bra fat, back fat, underneath the buttocks (also known as banana roll), and upper arm. In China, the cryolipolysis system is used for fat layer reduction of the abdomen and flanks. In Taiwan, the CoolSculpting® procedure is cleared for the breakdown of fat in the flank (love handle), abdomen, and thigh. Outside the U.S., China and Taiwan, the CoolSculpting® procedure for non-invasive fat reduction is available worldwide.



I don't like my double chin. Can the CoolSculpting® procedure help me lose it?

Yes! The CoolSculpting® procedure can treat visible fat bulges under the chin (submental) and jawline (submandibular). Freezing away fat from a double chin is as easy and tolerable as using the CoolSculpting® procedure in other parts of the body (e.g., abdomen, flank/side, thighs). It is also FDA-cleared to affect the appearance of lax tissue with submental area treatments. With CoolSculpting® treatment for a double chin, patients see results after just 1 to 2 visits. And with no surgery, and little to no downtime.



Where does the fat go? Are the results permanent?

The CoolSculpting® procedure safely delivers precisely controlled cooling to gently and effectively target the fat cells underneath the skin. Treated fat cells are crystalized (frozen), then die. Over time, your body naturally processes the fat and eliminates these dead cells, leaving a more sculpted you.



What does it feel like?

As the cooling begins during the first few minutes, you typically feel intense cold. This soon dissipates. With some applicators, you’ll feel some pulling as suction is applied. The area generally goes numb within 5 to 10 minutes during treatment. Many people read, watch videos, work on their laptop, or even take a nap during their CoolSculpting® treatment. After the treatment, you may feel some tingling as the area is massaged for 2 or 3 minutes. Patients are usually able to return to normal activities following their appointment.



Is the CoolSculpting® procedure safe?

In the US, the CoolSculpting® procedure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in the submental area, thigh, abdomen and flank, along with bra fat, back fat, underneath the buttocks (also known as banana roll), and upper arm. It is also FDA-cleared to affect the appearance of lax tissue with submental area treatments.



Who should not have the CoolSculpting® procedure?

The CoolSculpting® procedure is not for everyone. You should not have the CoolSculpting® procedure if you suffer from cryoglobulinemia, cold agglutinin disease, or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria. The CoolSculpting® procedure is not a treatment for obesity. As with any medical procedure, ask your physician if the CoolSculpting® procedure is right for you.



Are thre any side effects?

During the procedure you may experience sensations of pulling, tugging, mild pinching, intense cold, tingling, stinging, aching, and cramping at the treatment site. These sensations subside as the area becomes numb. Following the procedure, typical side effects include temporary redness, swelling, blanching, bruising, firmness, tingling, stinging, tenderness, cramping, aching, itching, or skin sensitivity. Sensation of fullness in the back of the throat after submental area treatment. These effects are temporary and generally resolve within days or weeks. Though rare, some additional side effects may occur. As with any medical procedure, ask your physician if the CoolSculpting® procedure is right for you.



Can I return to my normal activities after treatment?

Yes, you can. The CoolSculpting® procedure is completely non-surgical, so typically you can return to normal activities immediately. Patients often return to work on the same day after a CoolSculpting® treatment is completed.



I've had my CoolSculpting® procedure. Now what?

Always be sure to schedule a follow-up assessment with your CoolSculpting® provider to review your results and discuss the option of additional treatments. Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. A healthy body is a happy one. And we want you to be happy with your results!



When will I see results?

You may start to see changes as quickly as 3 weeks after your treatment, and will experience the most dramatic results after 2 months. Your body will still continue to flush out fat cells for up to 4 to 6 months after treatment.



Do I need to take special supplements or follow a strict diet and exercise program?

No supplements are required after your CoolSculpting® treatment. It’s not a diet and exercise program, so you won’t need to change any of your lifestyle habits. Many patients do feel more motivated to take care of themselves after a CoolSculpting® treatment. It’s as if they got a second lease on their body! They want to take even better care of themselves.



Is CoolSculpting® covered by medical insurance?

CoolSculpting® is an elective aesthetic procedure, which means that it is a voluntary cosmetic treatment. Insurance providers and FSA companies manage what services they will cover, but typically, aesthetic treatments such as the CoolSculpting® procedure are not covered. We encourage you to check directly with your insurance or FSA provider.