Fat Freezing by CoolSculpting: What to Expect After the Procedure

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction procedure that promises to reduce fat layer thickness in different parts of the body. It was cleared by the US FDA in 2012 and is now one of the most popular nonsurgical fat reduction treatments. It is suggested that there have been over 5 million CoolSculpting procedures performed worldwide.

The procedure’s ability to decrease fat without cuts and needles is the main appeal of CoolSculpting. It uses Cryolipolysis or controlled cooling temperature to freeze fat cells to the point of natural elimination. It also has a high satisfaction rating, with patients reporting up to 20 to 25% fat reduction in the treated area.

If you’re intrigued about CoolSculpting or thinking of undergoing the procedure, you may be wondering what you can expect after the treatment. Continue reading to learn more about it and the things you can expect after CoolSculpting.

The basics

As previously mentioned, CoolSculpting is a fat freezing treatment that uses Cryolipolysis or cooling temperatures to target and kill fat cells. Exposure to low temperatures triggers apoptosis or natural cell death. This then causes the crystallized fat cells to die naturally and be cleared through the lymphatic system.

Common target areas for CoolSculpting include:

• Abdomen
• Thighs
• Arms
• Chest
• Chin
• Other smaller areas (bra and knee fat)

Fat freezing by CoolSculpting features applications of different sizes, which suction the fat bulges. The applicators then deliver direct cooling to the area of concern, which freezes the fat cells. Once the treated cells die, they are processed as waste in the liver and are completely removed from the body over time. 

What to expect after CoolSculpting 

Downtime and side effects: Since CoolSculpting does not require incisions, it has virtually no downtime. Most patients can immediately return to their normal routines and won’t need to take time off from work. There are, however, some minor side effects like redness and soreness on the treated area. These will subside within a few days or weeks.

Other common side effects after the treatment include:

• Tingling
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Sensitivity
• Localized pain 

Fat layer reduction: In as early as three weeks, you can see gradual reduction in your fat layer thickness. Just take note that the most dramatic results are visible within a period of 60 to 90 day or once your body has metabolized all the dead fat cells. It is important to eat a healthy diet and exercise daily to maintain long-term results.

Fat cells are gone for good: With fat freezing, all treated fat cells are gone permanently and will never come back. You may need several CoolSculpting sessions to achieve your desired results. Undergoing more sessions translates to more treated fat cells and better results.

If you gain weight: Fat freezing can get rid of your fat cells for good, but the results will be negated if you gain a lot of weight. When this happens, the remaining fat cells will grow and expand and you’ll see fat bulges in other areas of the body. This is why it is important to keep a healthy lifestyle to maintain stable results. 

Not a substitute for diet and exercise: While CoolSculpting can reduce stubborn fat bulges, it is neither a weight loss treatment nor a replacement for diet and exercise. It is a body contouring treatment that is effective at targeting localized fat bulges that won’t back down despite regular diet and physical activity.

Here are 5 myths about CoolSculpting.

Schedule a body assessment and consultation

If you’re considering CoolSculpting to target stubborn fat bulges, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore today and schedule a body assessment and consultation with our aesthetic doctor. This is to find out if CoolSculpting or other non-invasive fat reduction procedure is right for you.