Coolsculpting is a non-invasive body contouring procedure that uses fat-freezing technology to reduce stubborn weight, especially in areas like the stomach, underarms, thighs, and butt. Although different body contouring procedures exist today, coolsculpting sessions are different because they offer almost immediate results, have no downtime, and can be done in less than an hour. Are you thinking about fat freezing as an option to eliminate stubborn fat? Here's what you need to know about coolsculpting in San Diego:
Is Coolsculpting dangerous?
Coolsculpting is a relatively new procedure, only approved by the FDA in 2012. A typical session takes about an hour and will set you back around $1,000. One or more treatment areas are covered per session; several sessions are required to attain the best results. Research on coolsculpting shows that it's much safer than traditional cosmetic procedures that require surgery.
The procedure is painless, and most people feel nothing besides a normal tugging sensation where the skin is being cooled. No cutting is involved, and no tissue manipulation, anesthesia, or recovery time is needed. Once the session is completed, you can resume your normal activities.
What are the possible side effects?
While the risks associated with this procedure are considered mild and manageable, a few reported side effects are worth mentioning. Following a successful procedure, some people may experience mild side effects such as:
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Tingling
- Bruising
- Skin sensitivity
- Numbness
These side effects are manageable and expected to go away within days. Many of these side effects are associated with under-qualified or inexperienced medical personnel. You must work with a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon for the best results. At the very least, the procedure should be done by a technician who is qualified to perform coolsculpting and has some experience with coolsculpting technology.
What areas of my body can I fix?
Coolsculpting is performed on specific body regions considered safe for removing fat deposits. These areas include:
- Abdomen
- Back
- Chin, or under the chin
- Flanks
- Underarms
- Butt
- Thighs
Is it safe for me to use coolsculpting?
The procedure poses no danger for most people but should not be used as a general weight loss technique. Coolsculpting effectively removes pockets of fat that would otherwise be difficult to remove by exercise and dieting. It is not an obesity treatment nor prevents weight gain - proper weight management is needed to keep the weight off.
Individuals with a weak immune system may not be ideal candidates for coolsculpting. Other conditions that interfere with the body's ability to handle very low temperatures must also be considered. These include:
- Pregnancy
- Cryoglobulinemia
- Cold agglutinin disease
- Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
- Nerve conditions
- Injury to the skin
- Certain allergies
- Bleeding conditions
- Implanted medical devices
- Chronic pain
- Current use of blood thinning medications
- Hernia
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
What do positive results look like?
One major reason coolsculpting is so popular today is the fact that fat cells are destroyed, meaning they won't return on getting more prominent with weight gain. That being said, gaining weight in other areas is still possible. After a successful procedure, the patient can expect to see results in the following days and weeks as the dead fat cells are gradually removed from the body through the liver. Results do not look superficial, as the new look develops slowly after the procedure.
In summary, coolsculpting is perfect for minor body contouring, and it can boost confidence and your sense of well-being, particularly when combined with exercise and a good diet.
