Is CoolSculpting safe?
More than seven million CoolSculpting treatment cycles have been performed worldwide by trained professionals since Allergan’s non-invasive fat reduction solution was introduced to the market in 2010. Internationally recognised as the gold standard in fat-freezing, CoolSculpting is the leading FDA-approved, non-surgical fat reduction treatment. It utilises controlled cooling to eliminate the stubborn fat that is difficult to shift with diet and exercise alone and is ideal for treating visible fat bulges under the chin and jawline, along with the abdomen, flank, bra fat, back fat, under the buttocks and upper arms.
How does CoolSculpting work?
CoolSculpting doesn’t replace a healthy diet and exercise. Nor will it make you lose weight. What it will do, however, is reduce pockets of fat in stubborn areas. The process involves using a vacuum-like applicator to suction targeted areas of fat. It then deep-freezes the fat cells to -11 degrees C, to permanently kill them without harming the surrounding tissues. Over the following twelve weeks, the fat cells will eventually die and be naturally expelled via your lymphatic system.
With no surgery and very minimal downtime, results typically take eight to twelve weeks to become visible.
Is it safe?
Because CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure, the risks are very low. While the CoolSculpting machine leaves less room for human error than liposuction in terms of fat removal, it also has its limitations regarding fine-tuning removal the way an artful plastic surgeon might by hand. During treatment, the applicator constantly regulates and monitors the skin’s temperature to ensure it stays within a controlled range.
What are the side effects?
As the treatment is non-invasive, there’s usually little to no downtime, which is great as people can continue their normal daily activities. Depending on the area treated, there may be slight tenderness and potentially some swelling immediately afterwards, but this will diminish over a few days.
How long do results last?
CoolSculpting is a fat reduction technology, but only if you control your weight. CoolSculpting technology targets the fat cells beneath the skin by applying controlled cooling to the treatment area. The fat cells are crystallised, then destroyed, leaving your body to naturally process and eliminate the dead fat cells. A single treatment can reduce fat deposits by up to 30 per cent, leaving you looking more sculpted. Once the fat cells have died, they won’t return, but you can still gain weight elsewhere. Lasting improvements to your body can also occur by changing your behaviour through nutrition and exercise.
How to make the most out of your consultation
As CoolSculpting gets increasingly popular, counterfeit treatments (without FDA approval) are also on the rise. And while the price may be more affordable, they come with added risks. To ensure you’re being treated with a legitimate device, check the CoolSculpting website and always talk to your practitioner about their experience during your CoolSculpting consultation. It may also be helpful to see before and after photos of patients who they’ve helped to achieve a similar result as you desire.
Enjoyed this? Sign up to our mailing list for weekly tips, tricks and skinspiration from our medical director, Dr Sophie Shotter.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that results and benefits may vary from patient to patient taking into consideration factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history.
