Understanding CoolSculpting and Its Aftercare
CoolSculpting has become an increasingly popular nonsurgical fat reduction treatment over the past decade. However, many people considering the procedure wonder about what happens after the treatment and what aftercare is required for the best results.
What Is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting, also sometimes referred to as cryolipolysis, is an FDA-cleared cosmetic treatment that utilizes controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat in targeted areas on the body. The cooling process targets and eliminates fat cells while leaving other tissues unharmed.
Some common areas treated with CoolSculpting include the thighs, abdomen, flanks, upper arms, chin, neck, and back/bra area. The treatment is done as an outpatient procedure in a doctor's office, medical spa, or CoolSculpting center.
How Does CoolSculpting Work?
During the procedure, a handheld applicator delivers precisely controlled cooling to the targeted fatty area for about 35 minutes while protecting the skin. This crystallizes fat cells without affecting surrounding tissues.
In the weeks following the treatment, the crystallized fat cells die off and are naturally eliminated from the body. Most patients start to see results as early as three weeks after treatment, with full results appearing over two to four months.
Understanding CoolSculpting Aftercare
While CoolSculpting treatment doesn't require much aftercare, some precautions should be taken for a few days or weeks after the procedure to ensure proper healing and the best aesthetic outcome.
Immediately After Treatment
The treated area may look or feel like it has a sunburn or light bruising. Some minor side effects like numbness, soreness, swelling, redness, cramping, tingling, and itching may be present.
Your provider will likely massage the treated area to help break up any remaining crystallized fat cells and improve skin contour. They may apply a compression garment or bandage over the treated area to reduce discomfort and swelling.
At Home Aftercare
CoolSculpting aftercare at home typically involves:
- Wearing any compression garments as directed
- Using OTC pain medication if needed for discomfort
- Avoiding rigorous exercise for 1-2 days
- Continuing gentle massaging if recommended
- Resuming normal activities once any soreness or other side effects resolve
You can usually return to work or your regular routine right after treatment. However, your provider may advise modifying activity for up to a few days based on your personal situation.
Longer Term Aftercare
In the weeks following CoolSculpting treatment, there are a few key things to be aware of:
- Results will appear slowly over two to four months
- Remaining fat cells may temporarily increase in size before shrinking overall volume
- Avoid significant weight gain as this could impact your results
- Schedule any follow up appointments with your provider as recommended
Some patients only need one CoolSculpting treatment per area to get their desired fat reduction. Others choose to do two or more treatments spaced several months apart to refine results.
Maintaining CoolSculpting Results
While CoolSculpting results are permanent, maintaining a stable weight is important for long-term satisfaction. Significant weight gain can possibly cause disproportionate fat distribution or reversal of results.
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help patients better maintain their post-treatment contour. Frequently checking in on your weight and making healthy lifestyle adjustments as needed can help support your CoolSculpting investment.
Are There Any CoolSculpting Aftercare Risks?
CoolSculpting is considered very safe with little downtime when performed by an experienced, reputable provider. However, as with most cosmetic procedures, some risks and side effects are possible.
Common Side Effects
In addition to the temporary side effects like redness, swelling, numbness, and bruising, some common side effects include:
- Sensory nerves can occasionally be affected, causing tingling, stinging, or numbness in the treated area
- Tender or firm nodules may form under the skin, which usually resolve on their own
- Rarely, darker skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation) or lightening (hypopigmentation) can occur
Talk to your doctor right away if any unusual side effects occur during the recovery period.
Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia
In very rare cases, the freezing process can cause nearby fat cells to grow larger rather than die off. This is called "paradoxical adipose hyperplasia" (PAH).
The underlying cause of PAH is not fully understood at this time . If you develop a visibly enlarged or hardened area of fat protruding under your skin, alert your doctor to determine if corrective treatment is indicated.
Takeaways on CoolSculpting Aftercare
- Ask your provider for clear aftercare instructions specific to your treatment areas and personal health status
- Allow time for healing, swelling to resolve, and your full results to emerge over two to four months
- Call your doctor promptly if you have any unusual or worsening side effects after treatment
- Avoid significant weight fluctuations and follow maintenance recommendations
Although unlikely, be aware that additional treatments, medications, or even surgical fat removal may be necessary in rare instances of PAH or other correctable issues.
With appropriate aftercare based on your doctors guidance, most side effects or risks can be managed for safe and effective nonsurgical fat reduction results.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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