Understanding the Science of CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared “body contouring" treatment for visible fat bulges. It uses a process called cryolipolysis to freeze fat and kill fat cells. The process is non-invasive (meaning it doesn’t involve surgery), but it’s still a medical procedure that must be performed by qualified medical workers.

Here’s how cryolipolysis works:

• Medical staff place a large applicator on the part of the body that the patient wants to target. The applicator is a paddle-shaped device that provides suction.
• The applicator gradually lowers the temperature of the targeted area. This process can take up to two hours.
• The low temperatures freeze and kill the fat cells.

The process can be slightly uncomfortable, but the cold temperatures have a numbing sensation. Many patients bring laptops or books with them so that they can read or work during the procedure. Some patients even nap for the entire procedure.

CoolSculpting Results

CoolSculpting can be effective, but it’s not intended as a complete weight loss solution. The goal of the procedure is to eliminate fat that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise. It’s specifically intended for “visible fat bulges" on the back, under the buttocks, on the upper arm, on the thighs, abdomen, flank, under the jawline, and under the chin.

For most patients, the process yields positive results. One study found a 73 percent overall satisfaction rate, which is higher than other noninvasive body contouring treatments. In that study, 86 percent of treated patients saw improvements.

The quality of the results may vary depending on the patient’s age, skin type, and the weight, and some patients may need several sessions to get the best possible results. CoolSculpting permanently kills the targeted fat, but patients will need to control their weight to prevent the fat from coming back.

Potential Side Effects and Complications

Compared to alternatives like liposuction — a procedure that removes fat surgically— CoolSculpting carries low risks of side effects and complications. Cryolipolysis techniques aren’t surgeries, and most side effects go away on their own after a few weeks. With that said, any cosmetic medical procedure carries some risks, and patients should consider those risks when making their decisions.

Potential side effects of CoolSculpting include:

• Redness, bruising, and swelling
• Temporary reduced sensation in the targeted area
• Temporary skin sensitivity
• Bloating near the area of treatment

Most side effects resolve quickly. As is the case with any treatment, severe side effects can happen; patients should schedule follow-up visits with their doctors and report severe pain or other uncommon symptoms as soon as they occur.

CoolSculpting can be performed in a dermatologist’s office, and most patients can go about their days as soon as the procedure is over.

Costs of CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is a voluntary cosmetic treatment, so in most cases, it’s not covered by insurance. The cost of the procedure varies depending on the patient’s location, the areas they want to treat, and the total number of treatments. Cryolipolysis typically costs between $2,000 to $4,000 per session. For comparison, more invasive services like liposuction cost around $3,500 on average.

Many offices that offer the procedure have financing options, and patients can keep costs down by researching carefully and comparing costs from local providers. People who take this approach should look at 3-4 providers, checking for reviews and qualifications. Even within a local area, two providers might offer vastly different rates for the same cosmetic service — looking online can help a person find a qualified CoolSculpting clinic without overpaying per session.

Deciding Whether CoolSculpting is an Option

While CoolSculpting is one of the most effective methods for treating body fat without surgery, it’s not right for everyone. Patients should work with their doctors to determine whether the procedure is an appropriate option. A consultation from an experienced physician can help an individual develop realistic expectations and understand all of the risks and benefits of cryolipolysis.

The first step is research. People who are interested in body contouring should look at several clinics, paying close attention to pricing, capabilities, and results. By reading carefully, patients can decide whether to pursue CoolSculpting — and avoid overpaying for their sessions.