Coolsculpting is a procedure that uses low temperature to reduce pockets of fat in the abdomen (muffin top), flanks (love handles), arms, thighs (inner and outer), or bra (back) fat areas.

The idea was developed by Harvard scientists who observed that when fat and skin are cooled, the temperature of the fat goes lower than the temperature of the skin. There’s no knife. No suction hoses. No needles. No lasers, even. After your treatment, you get on with your busy day.

Coolsculpting is performed with a Zeltiq, a device approved by the FDA to reduce fat by freezing (cryolipolysis) while part of your skin is held under vacuum by an applicator. About 20-30% of the fat cells freeze and are reabsorbed by the body over 60-90 days in each treatment. Your skin is not affected.

Unlike other aesthetic treatments that shrink the fat cells, Coolsculpting actually eliminates the fat cells, providing you longer lasting results.

coolsculpting

FAQ

If you pinch the skin in the area you are interested in treating and are able to raise 1 to 2 inches of excess fat, then you will benefit from Coolsculpting. Coolsculpting is designed to remove isolated pockets of fat that persist, even with diet and exercise. The procedure will not reduce your weight or treat obesity.

The first step is too wet the skin with a moist gel pad. Then the applicator is placed in contact with the skin. When the suction is turned on you will feel intense momentary pressure as the skin and fat are drawn into the applicator for freezing. You will feel slight discomfort for 5 to 10 minutes until the freezing takes effect and numbs the skin.

Most patients begin to notice an improvement in 8 to 16 weeks. This is because the treatment only freezes the fat; it does not remove it. It takes time for the body to reabsorb the treated fat. A single treatment reduces the fat in the target area by about 20-30%.

You may feel discomfort in the treated area and your skin may itch or be sensitive to touch for 1 or 2 weeks. Bruising or discoloration may occur. Very rarely an inflammatory nodule may develop which eventually resolves in months.

Yes. Loose skin can be tightened with the Venus Legacy device. Skin may be tightened before or at least 2 weeks after Coolsculpting, but not on the same day in the same treatment area.