Cool Sculpting & Cryolipolysis - How it Works, Cost & Safety

Do you want to reshape some features of your body without going under the knife? Cryolipolysis, also known as CoolSculpting, is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses cold temperatures to destroy fat cells in the body and accomplish that goal. The procedure is most commonly used to reduce unwanted fat in the abdomen, love handles, and thighs. It is relatively considered a safe and effective method for reducing unwanted fat, but it is not a weight-loss solution and is not recommended for people who are significantly overweight. It is one of the alternative to cosmetic surgical procedures like liposuction.

How Does Cool Sculpting & Cryolipolysis Work?

The CoolSculpting procedure uses a device that cools the targeted fat cells to a temperature that causes them to die. The dead cells are then eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system over the course of several months. The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis and does not require anesthesia or incisions.

The CoolSculpting device uses a suction device to pull the targeted fat bulge into a cup or applicator. The applicator then cools the fat to a temperature of -11°C to -6°C. This temperature is cold enough to cause apoptosis, or cell death, in the fat cells, but not cold enough to cause damage to surrounding tissue. The procedure typically takes between 35 minutes to 1 hour per applicator.

Advantages of Cool Sculpting

One of the main advantages of CoolSculpting is that it is non-invasive, meaning it does not involve incisions or anesthesia. This allows patients to return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure. Additionally, there is no significant recovery time, and patients can usually return to work or other normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Another advantage of CoolSculpting is that it is a highly precise procedure. The CoolSculpting device is designed to target only the fat cells in the area being treated. This means that surrounding tissue, such as skin, blood vessels, and nerves, is not damaged during the procedure.

Safety of Cool Sculpting

CoolSculpting is considered safe and effective by FDA. However, like any medical procedure, there are some risks and potential side effects associated with the procedure. These include redness, swelling, numbness, and tingling in the area being treated, as well as bruising and pain. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, and typically resolve within a few days of the procedure.

The results of the procedure are typically visible within a few weeks, with the full results becoming apparent after several months. The number of treatments needed will depend on the amount of fat being treated and the desired outcome.

CoolSculpting is not a weight-loss solution. It is a body contouring procedure that is used to reduce unwanted fat in specific areas of the body. It is not recommended for people who are significantly overweight or obese, as it is not a substitute for weight loss through healthy eating and exercise.

How much does CoolSculpting cost?

Cool Sculpting & Cryolipolysis References

Global Expert Opinion on Cryolipolysis Treatment

National Center for Biotechnology Information. “Cryolipolysis for Noninvasive Body Contouring: Clinical Efficacy and Patient Satisfaction.” U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4444424/.