CoolSculpting works on the principle that fat cells crystallize at temperatures surrounding skin, muscle, and nerve tissue tolerate without harm. A handpiece with integrated cooling is applied to a defined pocket of pinchable fat, crystallizing fat cells in the treated area.
Body · CoolSculpting
What happens to the fat
Over the following weeks, treated fat cells undergo apoptosis, or programmed cell death, and clear through normal lymphatic and metabolic processes. The result is a measurable reduction, typically twenty to twenty-five percent of pinchable fat in the treated area.
Body · CoolSculpting
Why the result holds
Treated cells are gone. Subsequent weight gain distributes into untreated areas rather than back into treated ones. CoolSculpting works best on defined, pinchable pockets, not on diffuse weight.
Body · CoolSculpting · What to expect
How a visit runs
Thirty-five to sixty minutes per applicator cycle, plus set-up and post-treatment massage. Most plans use two to four applicator cycles per visit, so total visit time is ninety minutes to three hours.
Body · CoolSculpting · What to expect
What it feels like
Sensation during the first five to ten minutes is intense cold followed by numbing. Once numb, the area is comfortable for the remainder of the cycle. Post-cycle massage is uncomfortable but brief.
Body · CoolSculpting · What to expect
Recovery and results
Mild soreness, bruising, and possible temporary numbness at the treated area for one to three weeks. Normal activity is possible immediately. Full result appears over eight to twelve weeks as destroyed fat cells clear through metabolism.
Frequently asked
Frequently asked questions
Am I a candidate for CoolSculpting?CoolSculpting works on pinchable, defined fat pockets, not diffuse weight. If you can pinch a specific area and want that area reduced, you are likely a candidate. If your goal is weight loss, medical weight loss with Dr. Hoedebecke is often a better first step.When will I see results?Full result appears over eight to twelve weeks as the destroyed cells clear through metabolism. Initial change is visible at three to four weeks.Do the fat cells come back?No. Destroyed fat cells do not regenerate. Subsequent weight gain distributes into untreated areas rather than back into the treated ones.
Body
Who performs this
Physician owned. Every device and protocol here is selected by our board-certified plastic surgeons.