CoolSculpting

Some areas of fat are stubborn not through any fault of lifestyle. They are simply where your body stores it. CoolSculpting uses controlled cooling to permanently destroy fat cells in these localised areas, with no needles and no surgery.

Localised fat deposits that persist despite a healthy weight and lifestyle are largely determined by genetics. The number and distribution of fat cells in these areas is set relatively early in life, and they do not reliably reduce through diet or exercise alone.

CoolSculpting uses a process called cryolipolysis to address this. Controlled cooling is applied to the targeted area, bringing the fat tissue to a temperature that triggers the natural death of fat cells without damaging the overlying skin. Over the following 2 to 4 months, the body gradually processes and eliminates the dead cells through the lymphatic system. Because the fat cells themselves are destroyed rather than simply reduced in size, the results at the treated site are permanent.

At-home care:

• Maintain a stable weight after treatment. The remaining fat cells in the area can still expand with weight gain.
• Stay well hydrated to support the body's natural clearance of destroyed fat cells
• Gentle massage of the treated area in the days following treatment can help with any firmness or tenderness

Before treatment:

• Arrive with clean skin over the treatment area
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area
• Avoid anti-inflammatory medications before treatment unless prescribed, as some providers prefer not to reduce the inflammatory response

Stubborn localised fat deposits

Abdomen and flanks

Thighs and arms

Under the chin

Back fat

During treatment

An applicator is placed over the treatment area and draws the tissue up with gentle suction before applying controlled cooling. During the session, patients typically feel intense cold, pressure, and occasional tingling. The area goes numb within a few minutes. Sessions run 35 to 60 minutes per cycle.

After treatment

The treated area may feel firm, tender, swollen, or bruised for a few days to a few weeks after treatment. Temporary numbness, tingling, or a stiff sensation in the area is common and resolves on its own. Most patients return to normal activities immediately after the session.

Results timeline

Results develop gradually over 2 to 4 months as the body processes and eliminates destroyed fat cells. Most patients notice visible reduction in the treated area at the 1 to 3 month mark. Once eliminated, the destroyed fat cells do not return.