CoolSculpting Guides

CoolSculpting by ZELTIQ

The CoolSculpting procedure is the only non-invasive (non-surgical) procedure that uses advanced cooling technology to gently and effectively target and eliminate fat in specific areas of a proprietary technology called cryolipolysis.  This 1 hour in-office procedure involves no incisions and no anesthesia and reduces the fat layer without harming the skin or other tissues. Contact Coolsculpting doctors in your area to discuss if this procedure is right for you.

What is Cryolipolysis?

Cryolipolysis is the non-invasive cooling of adipose tissue to induce lipolysis (breaking down of fat cells) without damaging surrounding tissues.  The result over 2 to 4 months is a noticeable, natural-looking reduction of fat.

How Does Cryolipolysis Work?

Cryolipolysis is based on the principle that fat cells are more vulnerable to energy extraction (cooling) than surrounding tissue.  A non-invasive applicator is attached to the targeted procedure area to extract energy from the underlying fat tissue, while protecting the skin, nerves, muscles, and other tissue.  The cooled fat cells undergo apoptosis (controlled cell death) and are gradually eliminated, reducing the thickness of the fat layer.

What Happens to the Fat Cells?

During the procedure, exposure to cooling causes fat cell apoptosis, which leads to the release of cytokines and the other inflammatory mediators.  Inflammatory cells gradually digest the affected fat cells in the months after the procedure.  Lipids from the fat cells are slowly released and transported by the lymphatic system to be processed, much like fat from food. 

What are the Results?

Clinical studies demonstrate that the CoolSculpting procedure provides noticeable, measurable fat reduction in properly selected patients over the course of 2 to 4 months after the procedure.  Additional procedures may be administered 2 to 4 months after the initial procedure to achieve greater fat reduction.

How Long do the Results Last?

Patients experiencing fat layer reduction show persistent results at least 6 months after the CoolSculpting treatment.  The elimination of fat cells is expected to last as long as fat cells removed by invasive procedures such as liposuction.

How do the Results Compare with Invasive Procedures such as Liposuction?

The results of the CoolSculpting Procedure are not as rapid or dramatic as invasive procedures such as liposuction.  However, for patients who wish to avoid the pain, risk, and recovery time associated with surgical procedures, the CoolSculpting Procedure may be the preferred option. Click here to view before and after pictures of coolsculpting and liposuction to see the differences in both results.

What are Common Effects After the Procedure?

The CoolSculpting Procedure is completely non-invasive which allows immediate return to normal activities such as work and exercise.  Redness may appear in the treated area and may last from a few minutes to a few hours.  Some localized bruising or swelling may occur which clears within a few weeks.  Many patients experience a temporary dulling of sensation in the treated area, lasting 1 to 8 weeks.

Who are the Best Candidates?

Ideal candidates are relatively fit, but have some modest-sized fat bulges that are not easily reduced with diet and exercise.  They are seeking a non-surgical, painless way to reduce the fatty bulges located in the abdomen and hip roll (muffin top) areas with no downtime.

How Much Does the CoolSculpting Treatment Cost?

The cost per treatment is $1500 per area.  An area includes either both hip rolls or both sides of the lower abdomen.  Most patients have both areas done for $3000.

How Long Does a Treatment Take?

A CoolSculpting treatment takes 1 hour per area.