CoolSculpting is a fat-freezing method designed to get rid of stubborn fat found in certain areas of the body. The process is known scientifically as cryolipolysis. The procedure, also known as fat freeze, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2010.

How CoolSculpting Works

Scientists got the idea for cryolipolysis by studying what happens to fat during frostbite. The cryolipolysis device works by cooling the fat to a temperature that destroys it while leaving the skin as well as the other tissues unharmed.

Contrary to popular belief, cryolipolysis is not surgery and won’t use needles. The device will hold the part of the body that is targeted between two paddles. The paddles will cool very quickly. The paddles are left in place for 35 minutes to an hour.

The process can destroy around 20 to 25% of the fat cells in targeted areas. While the final results will not be evident for a few months, some changes can be evident within a few weeks.

Ideal CoolSculpting Candidates

Cryolipolysis is not for those who want to lose weight. It is however the recommended option for those who have tried diet and exercise but have yet to get rid of certain fat bulges.

You are not considered a good candidate for cryolipolysis if you have:

● Poor skin tone
● Loose skin
● Cryoglobulinemia (condition where the abnormal proteins in the blood thickens in cold temperatures)
● Cold urticaria (skin condition that causes skin hives when it gets cold)
● Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (kind of anemia that destroys the red blood cells when in cold temperatures)

Cryolipolysis is used to kill fat cells in the following areas of the body:

● Belly
● Thighs
● Under the chin and jawline
● Upper arms
● Back and sides
● Under the butt
● Upper arm
● Along the bra line

The procedure has also been known to dramatically reduce the appearance of cellulites on the buttocks, legs, and arms. CoolSculpting is also considered beneficial for those who want to reduce excess fat that can be found underneath the chin. CoolSculpting will take an hour or so.

CoolSculpting Risks

Cryolipolysis can be done at the doctor’s office. What’s amazing about the process is you won’t need to schedule recovery time after. This means you can even drive yourself home after the procedure.

The procedure also has very few known side effects For instance, some patients may feel a tugging or pulling on the skin, apart from intense cold. Some patients also reported feeling sore. A little swelling may also be felt.

However, it is very rare for cryolipolysis to cause any severe pain after. There are instances where the skin can appear less smooth after the procedure. However, less than 1% of people experience this.

Effectiveness of CoolSculpting

Studies show that the procedure is considered effective and safe, with very minimal risks. The procedure will not cause any damage to the liver. Side effects of the procedure are often mild and will eventually go away after a few hours.

CoolSculpting Cost

The procedure is considered a cosmetic treatment. This means most insurance will not cover the procedure. How much you will pay for the procedure will depend on several key factors including:

● The body part you want to be treated
● The number of sessions needed
● Who will carry out your procedure
● Where you live or where you have the procedure done

CoolSculpting for the arms for instance may only require one session and would cost less per session compared to larger areas like the love handles or the stomach. Typically, the average cost of a personalized treatment plan is between $2,000 and $4,000.