Can you really freeze away fat with CoolSculpting?

Despite our best efforts with diet and exercise, stubborn areas of fat can persist in certain areas of the body. CoolSculpting is a safe, non-surgical treatment option that may be the solution for you.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting, a brand name for cryolipolysis, is a procedure that uses extreme cold to freeze fat cells. Fat cells are susceptible to damage from these temperatures, triggering an inflammatory response, cell death and elimination of these cells by the body. CoolSculpting is not intended for weight loss, but is best used for fat reduction in localized areas. 

During a CoolSculpting procedure, one or multiple vacuum adapters are placed on the selected treatment areas and left there for 35 to 45 minutes.

For best results, two sessions spread 4 to 6 weeks apart are typically recommended. Optimal results are usually seen within 3 months.

Does CoolSculpting hurt?

You can expect minimal to no pain during a CoolSculpting procedure. The most reported symptom during this treatment is a cold sensation. Some patients report a pulling or tugging sensation when the adapters are put in place, but that quickly resolves. After being treated, you may experience temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, tingling, aching or cramping.

Does fat come back after CoolSculpting? 

A very rare side effect of this procedure is the overgrowth of fatty tissue in the targeted area. This complication, which can appear 8 to 24 weeks after the procedure, is known as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia. In the rare instance this occurs, CoolSculpting has committed to paying for cosmetic liposuction for treatment of PAH.

What areas of the body can CoolSculpting treat?

CoolSculpting can be used on small areas of the body with pinchable fat, including: 

• Under the chin or buttocks
• Upper arms
• Abdomen 
• Flanks 
• Back
• Thighs

Here at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, board-certified plastic surgeons and advanced practice providers perform CoolSculpting on patients already screened to ensure they’re good candidates for the procedure.

Who’s a good candidate for CoolSculpting?

An ideal candidate for CoolSculpting is:

• in good health
• has isolated pockets of fat in the areas listed above that are resistant to diet and exercise 

You should not have CoolSculpting if you have:

• Certain autoimmune conditions
• Dermatitis or other skin conditions
• Chronic pain
• Diabetic neuropathy or other nerve conditions
• An implanted medical device
• Certain blood disorders, including cryglobulinemia, cold agglutinin disease and paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria 
• A goal of reducing large areas of adipose/fat tissue

To find out if CoolSculpting is right for you, schedule a consultation with one of our expert body contouring providers.