CoolSculpting® Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

CoolSculpting® Eliminates Stubborn Body Fat

Have you ever struggled to eliminate stubborn pockets of fat despite diet and exercise? If so, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with achieving their desired body shape, but the non-invasive procedure called CoolSculpting® may be able to help.

Whether this is the first time you’ve heard about the procedure or you are thinking about it, this guide answers the most frequently asked questions about CoolSculpting® and the more advanced procedure, CoolSculpting® Elite.

After reading this article, if you still have questions or are ready to book your free consultation at Gentle Aesthetics Med Spa in Braintree, MA – contact our team at (781) 843-0800 | Schedule Free Consultation.

What Is CoolSculpting®?

Developed by scientists at Harvard University, CoolSculpting® has been a popular cosmetic procedure for over a decade, with millions of successful treatments performed worldwide. Its revolutionary treatment eliminates stubborn fat cells and contours the body without surgery or downtime.

The scientific technology used in CoolSculpting® is called, Cryolipolysis and was discovered by doctor Dieter Manstein, Ph.D., MD, and R.Rox Anderson, MD from the Wellman Center for Photomedicine located at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. Drs. Anderson and Manstein, along with their team organized research that showed under carefully monitored laboratory conditions, subcutaneous fat cells are more vulnerable than tissues surrounding them to cold temperatures.

In the beginning, it was decided that long-term, controlled, cooling of local tissue could reduce selected fat cells along with subsequent loss of subcutaneous fat and not cause damage to the overlying skin. The discovery of this process is called, ‘selective cryolysis’ and brought us to the development of a patented, FDA approved, technology is now known as the non-invasive CoolSculpting® treatment.

What is CoolSculpting Elite?

CoolSculpting® Elite is the latest innovation in fat freezing, designed to deliver better results. With CoolSculpting® Elite, patients have access to even more advanced and customizable treatment options. This innovative technology offers a new range of applicators and enhanced cooling technology, allowing for even more precise and efficient fat reduction.

At Gentle Aesthetics Med Spa in Braintree, MA, we are proud to offer CoolSculpting® and CoolSculpting® Elite treatments to help our patients achieve their desired body shape. In this article, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about this popular treatment so you can feel informed and confident when considering CoolSculpting® or CoolSculpting® Elite for your own body goals.

How Does CoolSculpting® Work? 

CoolSculpting® works by using controlled cooling technology to freeze and eliminate stubborn fat cells in targeted areas of the body. During the treatment, a special applicator is placed on the skin and applies suction to the targeted area. The applicator then delivers controlled cooling to the area, which penetrates the skin and targets the underlying fat cells without damaging surrounding tissue or skin. The controlled cooling technology that targets and freezes fat cells causes them to crystallize and die off. The body then naturally processes and eliminates the dead fat cells over time, resulting in a more sculpted and toned appearance. 

Does CoolSculpting® Kill Fat Cells? 

The cooling technology causes the fat cells to crystallize and die off, triggering the body’s natural elimination process. Over time, the body naturally processes and eliminates the dead fat cells, resulting in a more sculpted and toned appearance in the treated area.

Does CoolSculpting® Work?

Yes, CoolSculpting® is a proven and effective treatment for reducing stubborn fat pockets in various areas of the body. It is FDA-cleared and has been shown to be safe and effective in numerous clinical studies. However, it’s important to note that CoolSculpting® is not a weight loss treatment and is best suited for individuals who are already at or near their desired body weight but have specific areas of stubborn fat that have been resistant to diet and exercise.

Is CoolSculpting® Safe?

Yes, CoolSculpting® is considered a safe and FDA-cleared treatment for reducing stubborn fat pockets. The treatment has been extensively studied and has been shown to be both safe and effective in numerous clinical trials. 

The treatment is non-invasive, meaning it does not require surgery, needles, or anesthesia. This minimizes the risk of complications and reduces downtime for patients.

However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects associated with CoolSculpting®. Common side effects include temporary numbness, redness, swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. These side effects typically subside within a few days to a few weeks.

It’s important to schedule your free consultation with one of our qualified CoolSculpting® team members to determine if the treatment is right for you and to discuss any potential risks or side effects based on your individual medical history and treatment goals.

Does CoolSculpting® Hurt?

During the CoolSculpting® treatment, patients may experience some mild discomfort or sensations of pulling, tugging, or pinching in the treated area. However, most patients find the treatment to be well-tolerated and generally pain-free.

After the treatment, some patients may experience temporary numbness, tingling, or discomfort in the treated area, but these sensations typically subside within a few days to a few weeks.

It’s important to note that individual experiences can vary, and some patients may have a lower pain threshold or be more sensitive to the sensations of the treatment. However, the treatment is generally considered to be comfortable and does not require anesthesia or pain medication.

If you are concerned about discomfort during the treatment, schedule your free consultation to discuss options for managing any discomfort or anxiety you may have.

Is CoolSculpting® Permanent? 

Yes, CoolSculpting® can provide long-lasting and permanent results for reducing stubborn fat pockets. The treatment works by freezing and eliminating targeted fat cells, which are then naturally processed and eliminated by the body over time. Once the fat cells are eliminated, they do not regenerate, meaning that the results are generally considered to be permanent.

Does Fat Come Back After CoolSculpting®?

While treated fat cells are permanently eliminated, the remaining fat cells in the body can still grow larger with weight gain. To maintain the results of the CoolSculpting® treatment, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet to prevent the remaining fat cells from expanding.

Additionally, the results of the treatment may take several weeks to months to fully develop, as the body gradually eliminates the dead fat cells. Some patients may require multiple treatments to achieve their desired results, and results can vary based on individual factors such as age, weight, and body shape.

Overall, CoolSculpting® can provide long-lasting and satisfying results for reducing stubborn fat pockets, but it’s important to have realistic expectations and maintain a healthy lifestyle to maximize the results of the treatment.

What Areas Of The Body Can CoolSculpting® Target?

CoolSculpting® can target and reduce stubborn fat pockets in many areas of the body, including:

  • Abdomen and belly fat
  • Flanks or love handles
  • Inner and outer thighs
  • Upper arms
  • Back fat
  • Double chin or submental area
  • Bra fat or back rolls
  • Male chest or gynecomastia

Newer CoolSculpting® devices, such as the CoolSculpting® Elite, offer even more applicator shapes and sizes, allowing for the treatment of a wider variety of body shapes and sizes. During your free consultation, we can help you determine which areas of your body are appropriate for treatment and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals.

Does CoolSculpting® Tighten Skin?

CoolSculpting® is primarily designed to reduce stubborn fat pockets and is not specifically intended to tighten skin. However, some patients may experience a slight improvement in skin laxity and firmness in the treated area due to the body’s natural healing response.

When the fat cells are eliminated through the CoolSculpting® treatment, the body’s natural healing process can result in a slight tightening of the skin in the treated area. Additionally, newer CoolSculpting® devices, such as the CoolSculpting® Elite, offer applicators with built-in radiofrequency technology, which can help to tighten and firm the skin while reducing fat.

It’s important to note that CoolSculpting® is not a substitute for surgical skin tightening procedures, such as a tummy tuck or arm lift. 

How Long Does CoolSculpting® Take?

The length of a CoolSculpting® treatment can vary depending on the number of areas being treated and the size and shape of the applicator being used. In general, a CoolSculpting® treatment session typically takes between 35 minutes to an hour per treatment area.

However, it’s important to note that some patients may require multiple treatments or sessions to achieve their desired results. During your initial free consultation, we will evaluate your individual needs and goals and develop a customized treatment plan that takes into account the number of treatment areas and sessions needed to achieve the best possible results.

Additionally, some newer CoolSculpting® devices, such as the CoolSculpting® Elite, offer dual applicators, allowing for the treatment of multiple areas at once, which can help reduce treatment time.

Can You Do CoolSculpting® At Home?

No, CoolSculpting® is a medical treatment that should only be performed by a licensed medical professional in a medical office or med spa setting. The treatment involves the use of specialized medical equipment, such as the CoolSculpting® machine and applicators, which are only available to licensed providers.

Additionally, attempting to perform CoolSculpting® at home using unregulated or homemade devices can be dangerous and ineffective, as these devices may not have the necessary safety features or be calibrated correctly to deliver effective results. CoolSculpting® should always be performed in a safe and controlled medical environment by a licensed medical professional to ensure the best possible results and minimize the risk of complications.

Do You Lose Weight With CoolSculpting®?

CoolSculpting® is not designed to be a weight loss treatment and is not intended to be a substitute for diet and exercise. While CoolSculpting® can help reduce stubborn fat pockets in targeted areas, it is not a solution for overall weight loss.

The amount of fat reduction achieved through CoolSculpting® can vary based on individual factors such as age, weight, and body shape. In general, patients can expect to see a reduction of 20-25% of the fat in the treated area per treatment session.

While the fat reduction achieved through CoolSculpting® may result in a slight decrease in body weight, the treatment is primarily focused on reducing specific areas of stubborn fat and improving body contour. It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to achieve and maintain optimal results from CoolSculpting®.

What To Expect After CoolSculpting®?

After a CoolSculpting® treatment, you may experience some temporary side effects such as:

  • Redness, swelling, and bruising in the treated area, which should subside within a few days to a week.
  • Numbness or tingling sensation in the treated area, which is a normal part of the body’s healing response and should resolve on its own within a few weeks.
  • Mild to moderate discomfort or cramping sensation in the treated area, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
  • Most patients are able to return to their regular activities immediately following a CoolSculpting® treatment, with little to no downtime. It’s recommended to avoid strenuous exercise or activities that may cause excessive sweating for the first 24-48 hours after treatment to avoid irritating the treated area.

Results from CoolSculpting® can be seen as early as three weeks after treatment, with the most significant results typically visible after two to three months. We may recommend follow-up treatments or sessions to achieve optimal results, depending on your individual needs and goals.

How Long For CoolSculpting® Results?

Results from CoolSculpting® can vary from person to person and depend on individual factors such as the size and shape of the treatment area, the amount of fat being targeted, and the body’s natural response to the treatment.

In general, patients can start to see some initial results as early as three weeks after treatment, with the most significant results typically visible after two to three months. Some patients may continue to see improvements for up to six months after treatment.

It’s important to note that CoolSculpting® is not designed to be a weight loss treatment and should not be used as a substitute for healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise and a balanced diet. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle after CoolSculpting® can help optimize and maintain your results over the long term.

Is CoolSculpting® FDA Approved?

Yes, CoolSculpting® is FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) approved for the treatment of visible fat bulges in certain areas of the body, including the abdomen, flanks, thighs, submental area (double chin), bra fat, back fat, and upper arms.

The FDA approval process requires rigorous testing and clinical studies to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medical devices such as CoolSculpting®. The FDA approval confirms that CoolSculpting® has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for targeted fat reduction in specific areas of the body.

What Is CoolSculpting® Elite?

CoolSculpting® Elite is a newer and more advanced version of the original CoolSculpting® treatment. It uses the same technology as the original treatment but has several design and engineering improvements that make it more efficient and effective.

Some of the key features of CoolSculpting® Elite include:

  • More applicators: CoolSculpting® Elite has a wider range of applicators that can target different areas of the body with more precision, including smaller areas such as the chin and upper arms.
  • More tissue treated: The Elite applicators can treat up to 18% more tissue than the original applicators, allowing for more comprehensive treatment in each session.
  • Shorter treatment time: The Elite applicators have a faster cooling rate, reducing the treatment time by up to 45%.

Overall, CoolSculpting® Elite offers a more customized and efficient treatment experience, allowing for more precise and effective fat reduction with shorter treatment times.

How Many CoolSculpting® Treatments Are Needed?

The number of CoolSculpting® treatments needed can vary from person to person and depends on individual factors such as the size and shape of the treatment area, the amount of fat being targeted, and the desired results.

In general, most patients can achieve noticeable results with just one CoolSculpting® treatment in the targeted area. However, some patients may require additional treatments to achieve optimal results, particularly if they have larger or multiple areas of concern.

We can assess your individual needs and goals during your free consultation and recommend the appropriate treatment plan to achieve the best possible results.

CoolSculpting® Elite is designed to be more efficient and effective than the original CoolSculpting® treatment, with shorter treatment times and a wider range of applicators to target more areas of the body with greater precision. While the number of treatments required will ultimately depend on individual factors and goals, CoolSculpting® Elite may reduce the number of treatments needed for some patients.

The faster cooling rate and ability to treat more tissue with each applicator can result in more comprehensive treatment in a shorter amount of time, potentially reducing the need for multiple sessions.

How Much Does CoolSculpting® Cost?

The cost of CoolSculpting® can vary depending on several factors, including the location and size of the treatment area, the number of treatments needed to achieve the desired results, and the provider’s experience and expertise.

During your free consultation, we will discuss your goals and treatment options, as well as the cost and financing options available. For additional information, here is a brief guide on how much CoolSculpting® costs.

Is CoolSculpting® Covered By Insurance? 

CoolSculpting® is an aesthetic (cosmetic) treatment and as such, is not covered by insurance. During your free consultation, we can discuss payment plans and financing options.

How To Prepare For CoolSculpting®?

Here are some general tips on how to prepare for CoolSculpting®:

  1. Schedule a consultation: Before undergoing CoolSculpting®, it’s important to schedule a consultation with a qualified provider to discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns or questions you may have about the treatment.
  2. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before your CoolSculpting® treatment can help keep your body hydrated and ensure the best possible results.
  3. Avoid blood-thinning medications: Certain medications and supplements can increase the risk of bruising or bleeding during the treatment. Be sure to inform your provider of any medications or supplements you are taking and follow their instructions regarding which ones to avoid before your treatment.
  4. Wear comfortable clothing: You’ll want to wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of your treatment, as well as avoid any tight-fitting garments that may interfere with the treatment areas.
  5. Avoid sun exposure: Sunburned or tanned skin can be more sensitive to the treatment, so it’s recommended to avoid sun exposure or tanning beds in the weeks leading up to your CoolSculpting® treatment.
  6. Arrange for transportation: Some patients may experience mild discomfort or numbness after the treatment, so it’s important to arrange for transportation to and from your appointment.
  7. Follow post-treatment instructions: We will provide you with detailed post-treatment instructions to follow, including tips on how to manage any side effects and how to maintain your results over time. Be sure to follow these instructions closely to ensure the best possible outcome.

Is CoolSculpting® Safe For Seniors?

CoolSculpting® can be a safe and effective treatment option for seniors. During your free consultation, we will review your medical history and any medications you are taking to ensure that CoolSculpting® is safe for you. In general, as long as you are in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the treatment, CoolSculpting® can be a safe option for seniors.

It’s worth noting that the skin of older adults may be less elastic than younger individuals, which can impact the results of the treatment. Additionally, some seniors may have pre-existing medical conditions that could affect their candidacy for CoolSculpting®. 

Is CoolSculpting® or CoolSculpting® Elite Right For You?

CoolSculpting® and CoolSculpting® Elite are non-invasive body contouring procedures that have gained popularity in recent years for their ability to reduce stubborn fat in targeted areas of the body. These treatments work by freezing fat cells, causing them to break down and be naturally eliminated from the body over time.

Overall, CoolSculpting® and CoolSculpting® Elite are safe and effective treatments for reducing unwanted fat in targeted areas of the body. However, it’s important to remember that they are not weight loss solutions and are best used as a complementary treatment to a healthy lifestyle.

Through this article, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about CoolSculpting® and CoolSculpting® Elite, including how the treatments work, their safety, their effectiveness, and their cost. 

Schedule Your Free CoolSculpting® or CoolSculpting® Elite Consultation.

If you’re interested in exploring CoolSculpting® or CoolSculpting® Elite as a potential option for body contouring, we recommend scheduling your free consultation at Gentle Aesthetics Med Spa in Braintree, MA.

(781) 843-0800 | Schedule Free Consultation