How old do you have to be to get CoolSculpting®?
In general, CoolSculpting® can be performed on adults 18 and older. Factors that may also determine candidacy include how much stubborn fat is present in the desired treatment area and your expectations regarding the outcome. Treatment is most effective for individuals who do not mind the results unfolding gradually, and who are willing to maintain a healthy lifestyle to preserve their contours.
Is CoolSculpting® safe?
Yes! The safety of CoolSculpting® has been explored in countless clinical studies and years of scientific research, which both resulted in the treatment’s FDA-approval in 2010. The most important factors in determining the safety of CoolSculpting® is the skill and experience of your provider. Ideally, you should receive treatment from a practice led by a doctor or board-certified plastic surgeon who has a team of certified CoolSculpting® technicians. Given this high quality of care, your CoolSculpting® provider should be able to properly assess your candidacy and provide timely intervention in the rare event of complication.
Can I do CoolSculpting® at home?
Although controlled-cooling has been proven to destroy fat cells, Cryolipolysis™ — the technology behind the effectiveness of CoolSculpting® — is only safe and successful when employed by a trained provider who is able to properly regulate the device’s temperature settings. CoolSculpting® is equipped with safeguards that target the subcutaneous fat layer while preventing damage to the surrounding skin tissue and the development of cold-related diseases, such as frostbite. For these reasons, our practice strongly discourages DIY (“do it yourself”) methods of controlled-cooling, as they can be ineffective at best and harmful — both to your appearance and your health — at worst.
Does CoolSculpting® hurt?
As the cooling panels reach the desired temperature, patients typically feel intense coldness before the treatment area goes numb. This can be uncomfortable, but should improve quickly as your body becomes acclimated to the sensation. You may also feel mild tugging, pulling, or pinching as the device draws in the fatty tissue, but most patients do not describe their experience as painful. Your CoolSculpting® provider will let you know exactly what you can expect during your appointment.
How many inches can you lose with CoolSculpting®?
With the ability to reduce up to 25 to 30 percent of fat, it’s possible to shrink a patient’s waistline by several inches depending on their figure and the unique details of their treatment plan — particularly when CoolSculpting® is combined with CoolTone™. Results vary based on each person’s aesthetic goals, so your CoolSculpting® provider will be able to provide you with more insight into whether your desired outcome is feasible during your appointment.
How much weight can be lost with CoolSculpting®?
CoolSculpting® is more intended to sculpt bulges of exercise-resistant fat rather than produce weight loss, therefore the actual amount of weight shed is typically marginal. In general, this body contouring treatment is most successful for patients who are already at or near their ideal weight. The aesthetic procedure should not be viewed as a substitute for a weight loss program, and we encourage individuals interested in losing weight to consult with a bariatric surgeon.
How many CoolSculpting® treatments are needed?
The number of CoolSculpting® treatments necessary to achieve the desired result varies from patient to patient. In general, most people need at least two treatment sessions to see their desired contours, but the amount of fat to be reduced, as well as your individual goals, will influence how many sessions are included in your CoolSculpting® plan. After determining the extent of your concerns, your CoolSculpting® provider will be able to give you a better idea of how many treatments are required to bring your goals to fruition.
Can CoolSculpting® treat gynecomastia?
Unfortunately, CoolSculpting® is not considered an effective treatment to correct gynecomastia — a condition in which men develop enlarged breasts. In cases of gynecomastia, the appearance of overdeveloped or visible breasts is often caused by a combination of fat and glandular tissue. While CoolSculpting® may be able to reduce excess fat, this method of controlled cooling does not address glandular breast tissue. Plus, due to the curved design of CoolSculpting® applicators, treatment is typically most successful when targeting bulges of localized fat.
To restore flat, natural-looking, and masculine contours in the chest, a surgical treatment like male breast reduction is often recommended. Dr. McCormack would be happy to speak with you about gynecomastia treatment options at McCormack Plastic Surgery, if desired.
Does CoolSculpting® work on cellulite?
Despite popular belief, cellulite is not caused by excess fat; rather, the appearance of dimpled skin forms due to pressure from the underlying fibrous bands of tissue pushing down. This creates bumps, lumps, and depressions along the surface of the skin. Since CoolSculpting® only works to reduce fat cells in the treated area(s), treatment is not regarded as an effective way to resolve cellulite. However, we offer non-surgical treatments that address the root cause of cellulite through our non-surgical facility, M Spa.
How can I reduce swelling after CoolSculpting®?
Everyone heals at a different pace after treatment with CoolSculpting®, but swelling should begin to subside after a few days. Your provider will give you tips on managing swelling after CoolSculpting®, which may include suggestions to wear compression garments, stay hydrated, and live a healthy, active lifestyle. There is no downtime required after CoolSculpting® and patients can return to their normal activities right away.
How long does numbness last after CoolSculpting®?
Not everyone experiences numbness or loss of sensation after CoolSculpting®, but it’s possible. Any side effects, such as numbness or tingling, should begin to dissipate after a few weeks. Don’t hesitate to contact M Spa if you have any concerns regarding the effects or results of CoolSculpting®.
Is CoolSculpting® covered by insurance?
As an aesthetic procedure that is not considered medically necessary, insurance companies don’t normally cover CoolSculpting®. Still, the cost of CoolSculpting® can still be more manageable through patient financing with CareCredit®, Prosper® Healthcare Lending, or ALPHAEON™ Credit. Upon approval, qualified patients can pay for their treatment plan over time with low- to no-interest fees. Our office team can explain the cost of CoolSculpting® further if you have any questions.