In recent years CoolSculpting has become one of the most well-known non-surgical body contouring treatments. The treatment can target stubborn areas of fat on the body, which is more effective than older procedures such as liposuction. Here's everything you need to know.
CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis technology by providing controlled cooling safely on the treatment area to freeze the underlying fat and destroy the fat cells. The treatment can be under an hour long with minimal pain; this skims inches off the area and tackles unwanted excess fat. A great option if you're looking for a lunchtime treatment with zero downtime.
During the treatment, the applicator will be safely applied onto the area you want to be treated and the temperature is set to provide the freezing and suction to the area. The freezing process kills the fat cells, which means the cells will begin to deflate and reduce in size. Over time the body will naturally eliminate the dead fat cells and is excreted through the body. CoolSculpting permanently destroys the cells, which means they will not return compared to other laser or fat reducing treatments.
Depending on the area and your pain threshold, CoolSculpting can be a bearable treatment with a few uncomfortable moments. During the suction of the fat, this process can feel a bit strange and throbbing, but not painful. The applicator will stay on for 45 minutes, during which the area will be frozen and may feel numb; more than one applicator can be attached if you are getting different areas treated.
After the freezing has taken place, the area needs to return to normal, and the area might sting for a short period; the practitioner will carry out a 5-minute massage to help break down the fat cells. Post-treatment, you can return to your normal activities without any restrictions; however, the area might feel a bit tender for a few days, and you should speak with your clinic to help manage any extra pain.
The most popular area for the treatment is the stomach, followed by a double chin, and these areas are hard to shift fat even with a strict diet and exercise. CoolSculpting has been FDA cleared for nine areas: Abdomen, Flanks, Chin, Bra fat, Back fat, Inner and Outer Thighs, Arms, Buttocks. If you see some of the before and after images that the treatment has achieved are impressive, clients even mention they have been able to fit into their favourite outfits again after spending months on unrealistic diets and workout routines.
Changes can be seen from four-six weeks, and the full results show around three months post-treatment. It is important to find a professional clinic with trained practitioners for the CoolSculpting procedure.
When you have your consultation, your practitioner should go through your medical history, assess the area to create a bespoke treatment plan, discuss any risks or side effects and help with booking you in if you wish to proceed.
