Is Coolsculpting Safe? 

Coolsculpting is a popular method of non-invasive and non-surgical fat reduction. Results can be excellent, leading to around 20% fat loss in the areas treated. Of course, as with any procedure, there are risks that you should be aware of.

While the procedure has been defined as safe by the FDA, your practitioner should still advise you of the potential downsides associated with treatment.

To fully understand the risks and the benefits, it’s first necessary to have a basic understanding of how Coolsculpting works. Read on to find out this, as well as the pros and cons of this type of fat removal. 

Everything You Need to Know Before Considering Coolsculpting

• How Coolsculpting works
• Risks and side effects 

How Coolsculpting works

Coolsculpting uses a method called cryolipolysis to break down localized pockets of fat contained in fat cells beneath the skin. As the name suggests, cold temperatures are used to do this, freezing the area and causing them to die. Over the following weeks, this is flushed away naturally by the body.

While this sounds somewhat dramatic, the procedure is generally uncomfortable at worst. The treatment is usually carried out in stages, with the full results seen within about six months.

Risks and side effects

The most common side effects of Coolsculpting are:

• Pain, stinging, or aching at the treatment site. While common, this normally resolves within about 10 days or less.
• Swelling and/or bruising: Again, this is temporary and usually fades over a few weeks. Other issues can include temporary discoloration of the skin and/or sensitivity. 

The main risk of the treatment is a condition, known as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia. It’s not common, but it causes fat cells to enlarge rather than shrink. While this isn’t physically dangerous, the only treatment for it is liposuction or other invasive surgery. It’s more common in men than women. 

Coolsculpting: safe for most with a few exceptions

• Coolsculpting is safe but not an obesity cure
• Coolsculpting is not recommended for…  

Coolsculpting is safe but not an obesity cure

For most people, Coolsculpting is safe, if a little uncomfortable. The best results are seen in those who have stubborn areas of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It’s important to know that the treatment isn’t a cure for being overweight—rather that it’s a successful procedure for targeted fat loss, as opposed to all-over weight loss. 

Coolsculpting is not recommended for… 

There are some health conditions where Coolsculpting is contraindicated.

These are:

• Cold agglutinin disease
• Cryoglobulinemia
• Cryoglobulinemia 

Other cautions include a history of neurological issues, skeletal disorders, and poorly functioning kidneys.

For those who are suitable, Coolsculpting is an effective method of removing stubborn fat that fails to respond to exercise and/or dietary interventions. The procedure is far less invasive than other fat removal procedures, such as liposuction. It leaves no scarring, results are fast, and there’s no need for downtime or a recovery period. While results aren’t instant, you’ll likely experience visible fat reduction within a few weeks.  

The key to the best results is to partner with an experienced practitioner. They’ll assess the bespoke treatment plan for your situation that should lead to optimal results within about 5-6 months following your final session. 

Interested in Coolsculpting? Safe, Expert Treatment at Bayou City Dermatology

The success of a Coolsculpting treatment is directly linked to how the procedure is carried out. At Bayou City Dermatology, every prospective candidate will be thoroughly assessed by our expert practitioners. Not only will they determine your suitability for treatment but also understand your expectations and give you clear details about the results you can expect. 

Find out more at https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/cosmetic/coolsculpting

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