If you’re wondering ‘how does CoolSculpting work’ then you’re not alone.
As a non-surgical, non-invasive treatment which freezes fat cells, you might be curious as to how this actually works and whether or not it’s safe.
CoolSculpting is FDA-approved, specifically its technology known as cryolipolysis which reduces fat in various areas of the body such as the stomach, thighs, and under the chin, among others.
It’s said to achieve 20-30% fat reduction in one treatment with minimal downtime, making this a popular non-surgical treatment for those wanting to change the silhouette of their body.
However, like any procedure, there are things to be aware of first, and it’s not always the best option if looking for a weight loss option.
That’s why we’ve put together this blog post to help you understand how CoolSculpting works, the benefits, and any safety considerations, so you can make the right decision for you.
At LASE Cosmetic, we have 40 years of experience in the aesthetic industry, helping patients look and feel their best by identifying what treatment is right for their needs. Every patient is unique, but our priority remains the same – helping you feel your most confident self.
What Is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is the original fat freezing device to break through the technology of cryolipolysis and remains the world leading brand today.
CoolSculpting is the only fat freezing device in the world to have FDA approval since 2010. This means it is the only fat freezing machine on the market that has been approved to be safe and effective.
People often choose this treatment when traditional lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet fail to work on stubborn pockets of fat. CoolSculpting can either be done in isolation or as part of a wider treatment plan to help individuals achieve their desired shape.
The treatment works on different areas of the body depending on where you want to achieve results:
- Abdomen
- Bra fat
- Double Chin
- Arms
- Hips / Love Handles
- Waist
- Buttocks
- Thighs
As the body removes the crystallised fat cells, they do not regenerate, resulting in long-lasting or even permanent results. Of course, the permanence of the results depends on several factors including your homes, lifestyle, and genetics.
How Does CoolSculpting Work?
CoolSculpting is a non-surgical procedure that reduces fat by using controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate stubborn fat cells.
Although we use the term fat freezing, the treatment does not reduce the tissues down the freezing point. Thanks to mother nature, fat freezes at 4 degrees rather than zero degrees. At this temperature, the fat cells will crystallise and break down, while other structures such as muscle, skin and nerves are cold but not damaged.
In time, these fat cells naturally break down through a process called apoptosis. Apoptosis is a term used to describe cell death and the process that occurs when cells die, break down and get excreted from the body in normal excretory processes.
Below, we’re sharing our process for how we would approach this treatment if we established this was the right option for you.
Consultation
Before starting the CoolSculpting journey at LASE Cosmetic, patients first have a consultation with Lisa, our Aesthetic Lead and CoolSculpting expert.
During this session, Lisa carefully assesses the areas of concern and discusses the desired results, ensuring realistic expectations are set.
Treatment Planning
Following the consultation, a personalised treatment plan is developed to target specific areas of the body. CoolSculpting is designed for contouring and reducing stubborn pockets of fat, rather than achieving overall weight loss. The goal is to enhance body shape in problem areas resistant to diet and exercise.
Procedure
During the procedure, a CoolSculpting applicator is placed on the targeted area, where it delivers controlled cooling.
This freezes and crystallises the fat cells beneath the skin, leaving surrounding tissues unharmed. The treatment is comfortable, and patients can often relax during the process.
Fat Cell Elimination
After the fat cells are frozen, they undergo apoptosis, a natural process where they are broken down and eliminated by the body.
Over the following weeks and months, the treated areas gradually become slimmer as the fat cells are permanently removed, revealing a more sculpted appearance.
Results
Gradually, patients may notice a reduction in the treated areas’ fat bulges, resulting in a more sculpted and toned appearance.
However it’s important to note that results can vary, and multiple sessions may be needed to achieve the desired effect.
Is CoolSculpting Safe and Are There Side Effects?
CoolSculpting is considered a safe and effective way to reduce fat. As we mentioned earlier in the blog, it is FDA-cleared, and most people don’t feel anything during the treatment aside from a slight tugging in the targeted area.
Furthermore, as a non-invasive treatment the risk of complications is low, and patients can go home the same day. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a slimmer figure without resorting to a procedure such as liposuction.
The only noticeable side effects concentrate around the area that has been treated, and these tend to subside within a few weeks. Mild side effects include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Numbness
- Tingling sensation
- Skin sensitivity
- General discomfort
Whilst CoolSculpting is considered safe, it’s important to choose an experienced professional who understands potential risks and side effects.
This gives you peace of mind that you’re in safe hands, and you can ask any questions you want before deciding on this specific treatment.
Need Help Deciding Which Treatment Is Right For You?
Book your consultation with our experts here.
Why Autumn Is A Good Time For CoolSculpting?
As we all prepare for the festivities, Autumn is a particularly good time for CoolSculpting.
From cooler temperatures, to helping us look and feel our best ahead of the party season, we’re looking at some other reasons why these colder months are ideal for this procedure.
More comfortable recovery
The cooler temperatures in autumn mean the recovery process from CoolSculpting can feel a lot more comfortable. It’s normal to experience some swelling or redness which can occur after the treatment, meaning it’s easier to cover up in cooler weather.
There’s also no need to worry as much about the heat or excessive sweating which might irritate the treated areas. You’re also more likely to wear cosy, loose clothing which can add to your overall comfort.
Fresh start to the new year
It’s common to start working on your body goals ahead of the new year – the time when everyone sets their new year’s resolutions!
Since CoolSculpting results develop gradually over several weeks allowing you to enjoy more visible results, starting in autumn allows you to see these changes just in time for the new year. In turn, this can leave you feeling more confident and refreshed as January comes round.
Who Is CoolSculpting For?
CoolSculpting is suitable for both men and women who are looking to contour specific areas such as their chin, bra fat, abdomen, flanks and arms.
There are certain people where this treatment is not recommended, although this will be discussed with you during your consultation.
This includes individuals with certain medical conditions such as cryoglobulinemia, cold agglutinin disease, or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, which make them sensitive to colder temperatures.
Furthermore, people who are significantly overweight would most likely benefit from a different treatment plan, as this would provide more substantial fat reduction.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid CoolSculpting as a precaution, since there is no research confirming the procedure’s safety during this time.
CoolSculpting FAQs
You’ll probably have lots of questions around CoolSculpting so we will address some frequently asked questions below! Hopefully these will clear up any underlying concerns.
Is CoolSculpting permanent?
CoolSculpting results can be permanent, if the results are properly maintained. Once the fat cells are frozen and eliminated through the body’s natural processes, they do not return. However, it’s crucial that patients maintain a stable weight, as remaining fat cells can expand with weight gain. Therefore, CoolSculpting helps contour and shape the body, but a healthy lifestyle is important to sustaining long-term, permanent results.
How much does CoolSculpting cost?
The cost of CoolSculpting will vary depending on the number of areas being treated and the number of sessions required. There’s no one-size-fits-all cost, as it comes down to what the individual needs to achieve the desired outcome. At LASE, we advise a consultation first allowing us to get a deeper understanding of your specific needs before we give a price. Treatments start from £500. A package price can be given once we establish how many sessions you need.
Does CoolSculpting work?
In a simple answer – Yes! CoolSculpting is an effective way to reduce stubborn fat in targeted areas of the body. Research shows that patients experience noticeable fat reduction after treatment with long-lasting results. It works particularly well for body contouring and shaping, whilst not being a solution to long-term weight loss.
The Festive Freeze: How Does CoolSculpting Work And Is It Safe
Hopefully you know more about how CoolSculpting works along with why this is such a popular treatment for both men and women.
If you’re unhappy with your shape but you don’t feel comfortable going under the knife, this can be a great solution to tackling some of your excess weight without resorting to surgery.
With minimal downtime and often mild side effects, individuals can resume their normal activities without having to spend weeks or months recovering. CoolSculpting is particularly popular during the autumn/ winter season as you can start to prepare the festivities, making sure you look and feel your best!
At LASE Cosmetic, this is our core aim as we work with patients to help them find the best treatment to improve their self-confidence and self-esteem. Whether that’s through CoolSculpting or a different treatment which could help you achieve the best results, we’ll identify the right procedure for your needs. Get in touch with our expert team for a consultation.
Need Help Deciding Which Treatment Is Right For You?
Book your consultation with our experts here.
Recent Comments