What is CoolSculpting and is it right for me?

Conveniently located to serve the Metropolitan Detroit area.

What is CoolSculpting and is it right for me?

Conveniently located to serve the Metropolitan Detroit area.

We all want that perfectly sculpted body, but sometimes diet and exercise is not enough to achieve the results we are looking for. CoolSculpting can be a simple solution! It is a safe, non-invasive body contouring procedure that helps dissolve stubborn fat cells and remove unwanted pockets of fat painlessly. It is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures conducted today. In fact, almost four million procedures have been performed around the world.

How does CoolSculpting work?

No needles, no incisions, no surgery, no anesthesia, no downtime 

CoolSculpting is an FDA approved procedure invented by Harvard physicians using the science of cryolipolysis – safe, careful freezing of fat cells without damaging the overlying skin and tissues (fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than other cells). Through the process, fat cells die gradually while leaving surrounding nerves, muscle and other tissues unaffected. After treatment, the destroyed fat cells gradually are broken down, and, over time, the body naturally processes the fat and eliminates the dead cells, leaving a beautifully sculpted you, tighter and trimmer.

In what areas of the body is CoolSculpting effective?

CoolSculping is safe and effective for reducing fat in these areas: 

  • Upper and lower abdomen
  • Inner and outer thighs
  • Flanks (love handles)
  • Arms and under the armpit
  • Chin area (double chin) and upper neck
  • Bra and back fat
  • Back
  • Buttocks and underneath the buttocks (banana roll)

How do I prepare for the procedure?

The CoolSculpting procedure doesn’t require much preparation. However, it’s important to make sure your body is healthy and close to your ideal weight. CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution, and very overweight or obese people are not ideal candidates. An ideal candidate is healthy, fit, and looking for a tool to eliminate body bulges.

Although bruising from the suction of the applicator is common after CoolSculpting, it’s a good idea to avoid anti-inflammatories such as aspirin before the procedure. This will help reduce any bruising that may occur.

What should I expect during the procedure?

A physician or specially trained technician at Spa Renaissance will conduct the procedure in one of the spa’s comfortable procedure rooms. 

First, the clinician will apply a gel pad on the targeted area. Next, using a handheld device with applicators resembling nozzles of a vacuum cleaner, the health care provider begins moving the device gently and effectively over the skin above the fatty tissue, administering suction and cooling technology to freeze fat cells.

Initially, you may experience some of the following sensations: pulling, mild pinching, tingling, stinging, intense cold, or cramping at the treatment site. These sensations will subside quickly as the treatment area becomes numb. 

Once numbness sets in, you will be able to relax, read, check emails, listen to music, or even take a short nap as the procedure continues.

Each treatment can take anywhere between one and three hours. The time varies depending on the area treated. 

The provider typically will massage the treated area immediately after the procedure to breakup any frozen deep tissue. This will help your body begin to absorb the destroyed fat cells. 

What happens after the procedure?

Following the procedure, you may experience some minor muscular pain or spasms, soreness, redness at or near the treatment site, swelling, bruising, tenderness, itching, or skin sensitivity, which can last as long as seven to 10 days. Most people find these after affects don’t stop them from enjoying their normal daily activities. In fact, you can resume your regular routine almost immediately with no downtime.

Are there any side effects or risks?

Because the procedure is non-invasive and does not require any medication or anesthesia, the rate of complications and side effects is low.

The Aesthetic Surgery Journal analysis found that, of 1,445 people, only 12 people – or less than 1 percent – reported complications. The most common complication was having less sensation than beforehand in the treated area.

Am I a candidate for the procedure?

CoolSculpting is not for everyone. Your provider will discuss this with you in detail.

In general, it should not be used in the heart or head areas, areas of new bone growth, over the carotid sinus nerves, or over the neck or mouth. It should not be applied over swollen, infected, inflamed areas or skin eruptions. 

Other conditions that rule out the use of CoolSculpting include:

  • active bleeding disorders or seizure disorders
  • severe sensitivity to cold
  • weakened immune systems 
  • pregnancy, attempting to become pregnant, and breastfeeding
  • nerve conditions, such as diabetic neuropathy
  • skin conditions related to the immune system, such as eczema and psoriasis
  • inflammatory skin conditions, such as dermatitis and hives
  • a recent injury to the skin being treated, including scar tissue
  • long-term use of blood thinning medications
  • bleeding conditions that thin the blood
  • history of a hernia or a hernia in or near the treatment area
  • active, implanted medical, metal or electronic devices, such as pacemakers or drug pumps
  • chronic pain conditions
  • severe anxiety disorders
  • menstruation

When will I see results?

You may see results as early as three weeks after the procedure, but typically after two to three months as the body gradually flushes out the destroyed fat cells. You can expect 20 percent to 25 percent permanent reduction of fat in the areas treated. According to CoolSculpting market research, 79 percent of people report a positive, noticeable and lasting difference. The targeted area looks natural.

Unlike diet and exercise, fat cells actually are destroyed and removed from the body, which means the same fat cells cannot return or enlarge with weight gain.

How much does CoolSculpting cost?

Cost is determined by the size of the treatment area and desired outcome. Average cost of a multi-area procedure is between $2,000 and $4,000. Smaller areas alone, such as the upper abdomen or the chin, require a smaller applicator and can cost much less (roughly between $700 and $900). Larger areas, like the lower abdominal area, require a larger applicator and can cost up to $1,500. Because CoolSculpting is a cosmetic procedure, your insurance will not cover the costs.

How long does CoolSculpting last?

The results will last as long as you maintain a stable weight. Once the treated fat cells are gone, they are gone for good, however, if you gain weight, you’re likely to gain it more evenly across your body rather than collecting it in those stubborn pockets like before. 

Who conducts CoolSculpting?

Find an experienced, trained, professional such as a plastic surgeon. Do your research and ask questions before making your choice. It always is good to get a second (or third) opinion. The health care provider you choose will be able to explain in detail the appropriate treatment plan that will give you the best results based on your skin type and muscle mass.

At Spa Renaissance, the medical team will develop a customized CoolSculpting treatment plan tailored to your body, your goals and your budget. 

Contact us today to find out if CoolSculpting is the right procedure for you. Call us at (248) 498-8100.