We love helping people feel great about the way they look. CoolSculpting is an effective body contouring treatment that has helped many adults do just that. Knowing how popular this treatment is, we want to create a sense of confidence for those who may be ready to contact our office for their personal body-contouring program. Here, we discuss what happens before, during, and after CoolSculpting.
Before CoolSculpting treatment, a thorough consultation and evaluation are performed. The consultation allows the provider to assess the reasons for wanting body contouring, the concerns that the patient has, and what they wish to achieve. The assessment helps us understand what is needed to achieve the stated goals. Most people are good candidates for CoolSculpting. This treatment is performed on a variety of different areas, including the backs of the arms, the thighs, the chin, and more. What CoolSculpting does is stimulate the elimination of fat cells. This non-invasive procedure does not tighten the skin. After our consultation, we can discuss the recommended approach that we tailor to each person.
The CoolSculpting Procedure
Fat cells are more responsive to cold temperatures than the muscles or skin. The CoolSculpting procedure is the culmination of a decade of research, directing the precise temperatures necessary to destroy fat cells while leaving the skin and muscle unaffected.
The CoolSculpting procedure may last as little as 35 minutes per treatment area. The process begins by applying a gel sheet over the skin of the treatment area. A small amount of tissue is pulled into the applicator. Sensations of tugging and suction are common. At first, patients feel intensifying cold, which transitions to tingling, stinging, aching, then numbness. This happens within about ten minutes, after which patients sit comfortably for the duration of their procedure. CoolSculpting sessions are a great time to catch up on a show, read a book, listen to a podcast, or just rest.
After CoolSculpting
During a CoolSculpting treatment, the targeted fat cells are strategically cooled, resulting in the formation of crystals. Crystals damage the walls of the fat cells, causing what is called cryolipolysis, fat cell death by freezing. What happens to fat cells after CoolSculpting is different than what happens when one loses weight. CoolSculpting destroys fat cells, so the body gets rid of them. Weight loss causes fat cells to shrink. Crystallization can lead to up to a 25% reduction of the fat cells in the area.
After CoolSculpting, side effects such as tingling, tenderness, firmness, bruising, swelling, and mild cramping are common. These fade gradually over several days. The results of fat-freezing also develop gradually. Patients may begin to see a subtle difference in shape as soon as two weeks after their first session. However, these build as more fat is eliminated. Results typically peak around 12 weeks after CoolSculpting is performed.
Lux Laser Spa has two Bryn Mawr locations to serve you. Call 484-322-5316 to schedule your CoolSculpting consultation and treatment.