Cryolipolysis CoolSculpting is the number one non-invasive fat reduction treatment on the market. This popular treatment is known to reduce fat in diet- and exercise-resistant areas of the body. However, as its popularity has grown, so has some misinformation about the procedure. In this post, we discuss some of the top misconceptions about CoolSculpting with expert input from a CoolSculpting Specialist.
CoolSculpting leverages fat-freezing technology to help eliminate fat from the diet- and exercise-resistant areas of the body. The scientific term for CoolSculpting is cryolipolysis.
Since this popular fat reduction treatment came on the market, millions of cryolipolysis CoolSculpting procedures have been completed worldwide. Similar to other popular treatments, as its popularity has grown, so have some untruths and misconceptions about the procedure. Much of the misinformation shared comes from those who don’t fully understand the procedure, from how it works to what it has to offer in terms of results.
To help us dispel some of the common cryolipolysis CoolSculpting misconceptions, we turn to Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and CoolSculpting Specialist Amanda McMillan.
Misconception #1: CoolSculpting is a weight loss treatment
Many make the mistake of labeling CoolSculpting as a weight loss treatment, when it’s actually a fat loss treatment.
McMillan shares, “One of the more common misconceptions that I hear about CoolSculpting is that it is a weight loss treatment. However, you don’t typically see a big change on the scale with CoolSculpting. It is truly for sculpting down stubborn pockets of fat to give you the shape that you’re looking for.”
Let’s break this fat vs. weight loss concept down a bit further.
We are born with a certain number of fat cells, and that number stabilizes by the time we reach puberty. As we gain and lose weight, our fat cells are expanding and shrinking, respectively.
CoolSculpting works by freezing fat cells in the treated area. Once the fat cells are frozen, they are naturally eliminated from the body over time. After being eliminated from the body, the fat cells are gone for good. As the fat cells are removed from the treatment areas, you lose inches in that area. This is what makes CoolSculpting a fat loss vs. weight loss treatment – you lose inches of fat with CoolSculpting, though you might not lose much weight, if any.
In terms of how much fat loss you can expect to see, a 20% to 25% reduction in treatment areas is common. Results vary between individuals based on factors like body chemistry and treatment area.
Misconception #2: You can’t gain weight or inches after CoolSculpting
To reiterate, CoolSculpting is a fat loss vs. weight loss treatment. If your remaining fat cells after treatment get bigger, you’ll gain weight. Also, if those fat cells are in the areas where you received CoolSculpting, it’s possible to gain inches due to the weight gain in those areas. To help maintain CoolSculpting results, McMillan recommends a healthy lifestyle.
“While CoolSculpting permanently reduces the number of fat cells in the area treated,” McMillan shares, “I tell all of my patients – “This is not your “get out of jail free” card.” I encourage everyone to maintain a healthy lifestyle for optimal results. Fat cells that remain can enlarge if you happen to gain weight post treatment. Staying active, eating cleanly, and staying hydrated are recommended for overall optimal health.”
Misconception #3: CoolSculpting only works on belly fat
It’s true that many turn to cryolipolysis, or CoolSculpting, to reduce stubborn belly fat. However, CoolSculpting is actually FDA-cleared to treat additional areas of the body.
McMillan points out that, “while the abdomen is a common area to treat with CoolSculpting, there are nine FDA-cleared treatment areas from chin to knees.”
CoolSculpting is cleared to treat the following areas:
- Abdomen
- Back
- Upper arms
- Thighs
- Flanks (love handles)
- Under the chin
- Bra fat
- Buttocks (banana roll)
- Under the jawline
Misconception #4: CoolSculpting treatments require recovery time
One of the best things people love about CoolSculpting is the fact that it requires no surgery. It’s completely non-invasive with no downtime, making it an innovative approach to fat reduction without the need for surgery, all while offering excellent results. Many patients even return to work and continue their workout routines without interruption the same day.
“I love CoolSculpting because it is a non-invasive, permanent fat reduction treatment,” McMillan shares, “There are no needles, no numbing, and no cutting, so you can continue your day-to-day life without any interruptions and get the body you want.”
Misconception #5: Cryolipolysis provides immediate results
It takes time for the frozen fat cells to be eliminated from the treatment areas, which means it takes some time to see CoolSculpting results. Some see fat reduction in as little as 4 to 6 weeks, with full results seen 90 days following your last CoolSculpting treatment.
Misconception #6: CoolSculpting is painful
During a cryolipolysis treatment, patients report little to no discomfort. In fact, many work, read, or rest during treatment.
Sensations experienced during treatment vary between individuals. These sensations range from numbness and itchy skin to tingling and mild cramping.
Misconception #7: Anyone can be an ideal candidate for CoolSculpting
Though CoolSculpting is the perfect fat reduction treatment for millions of people worldwide seeking a thinner physique, it’s not for everyone. The treatment works best for those near their ideal weight and struggling with those last few inches of fat that aren’t responding to diet and exercise.
There are also health conditions that are contraindicated with cryolipolysis treatments. These include:
- Cold agglutinin disease
- Cryoglobulinemia
- Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
Additionally, Coolsculpting is not recommended for those with the following characteristics:
- Poor blood circulation in the area to be treated.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Has a recent surgery, injury, or inflammation on or near the area treatment
- Hernias
Those who have recently lost a lot of weight should wait to schedule a CoolSculpting treatment until after they’ve maintained their weight for a year. Women who have had a baby should also wait at least one year after giving birth before having a CoolSculpting treatment.
Prior to scheduling a treatment, a CoolSculpting Specialist will consult with you to determine if you’re an ideal candidate to move forward.
Schedule a cryolipolysis CoolSculpting Complimentary Consultation today!
McMillan’s final words on CoolSculpting?
“Schedule your complimentary consultation today to get sculpting!”
You can book your cryolipolysis CoolSculpting consultation with DermaTouch RN online 24/7!
Amanda McMillan, CCMA
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, CoolSculpting Specialist
Amanda has more than nine years experience in clinical and cosmetic Dermatology. She prides herself in personal attention to patients’ concerns, offering customized treatment plans, including tailored product regimens and in-office treatments. She enjoys learning about new products and procedures and staying abreast of the latest technology. Outside of DermaTouch RN, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family. They love traveling to new places and exploring the outdoors. – with sunscreen on, of course!
DermaTouch RN offers minimally invasive and non-invasive treatments for men and women in Houston, San Antonio, Spring and Cypress, as well as the surrounding areas of Texas. We are the largest aesthetic practice in the Houston area, and all of our medical spa treatments are performed by a team of nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and aestheticians who receive continuing education to remain abreast of emerging treatments that benefit our patients. We invite you to learn more about our office before your consultation.
