Dedicating yourself to a healthy diet and exercise regimen is the best way to get into shape, but there are always areas where the stubborn bulges of fat just don’t seem to go away. CoolSculpting is an excellent treatment designed to target these fat pockets for a more sculpted shape.
At Laser Aesthetic Center, we want our patients to be informed about CoolSculpting and the type of results it yields, including how long results should last. The good news is with a continuation of proper nutrition and exercise, long-term results from CoolSculpting are easy to achieve.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a branded, FDA-approved form of fat reduction treatment that utilizes cryolipolysis to freeze unwanted fat. CoolSculpting and other types of cryolipolysis use freezing temperatures to break down fat cells. The cold temperatures used do not damage any surrounding or underlying tissue, and there is no damage to the skin’s surface.
CoolSculpting treatments take roughly an hour to complete, and there is no necessary recovery period. Following the procedure, it takes approximately 4-6 months for the frozen fat cells to leave the body naturally. In that time, the area of fat will decrease by an average of 20%. Results vary, but patients generally report that clothing fits better, and the treated bulges are less visible about eight weeks post-treatment.
Yes, It Really Works!
Studies have shown CoolSculpting to be an effective fat reduction treatment. A 2009 study looked at the clinical efficiency of cryolipolysis, and researchers found that cryolipolysis reduced the treated fat layer by as much as 25%. The results were still present six months after the treatment. The frozen fat cells then die and are extracted from the body through the liver within several weeks following treatment.
CoolSculpting can also reduce the appearance of cellulite on the legs, buttocks, and arms, in addition to treating unwanted fat on the thighs, lower back, belly, and love handles. As a non-invasive treatment, there are several benefits to CoolSculpting over traditional surgical fat removal procedures.
Side Effects Are Minor and Brief
Any side effects you may experience should improve within a few days but can be present for a few weeks. You may also notice a feeling of fullness in your throat if your targeted area is around your neck or chin. If you’re concerned about any side effects, be sure to discuss them with your provider before having any treatment performed.
In the days following your procedure, you may experience minor:
- Skin redness
- Swelling
- Pain or tenderness
- Bruising
- Stinging
- Soreness
- Itching
- Skin sensitivity
Long-Lasting Results You Can Count On
Your CoolSculpting results should last indefinitely. Once CoolSculpting kills off fat cells, they do not regenerate or return. However, if you gain weight after your treatment, you may regain fat in the treated areas or other areas of the body. Destroying existing fat cells will not prevent new fat cells from appearing. A healthy lifestyle is vital to preserving the results achieved from CoolSculpting. A person who does not exercise or maintains an unhealthy diet may soon see the fat return to treatment areas.
Keeping Fat From Coming Back After CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting is not for everyone, nor is it a quick fix for weight loss. The ideal patient is at a stable weight with some persistent, stubborn areas of fat that do not respond to regular exercise and diet.
To maintain and preserve your CoolSculpting results for as long as possible, one of the most critical things you can do is avoid subsequent weight gain. Gaining weight after CoolSculpting can cause fat cells to grow and even stimulate new fat cells. To prolong your CoolSculpting results, use these beneficial tips:
- Avoid weight fluctuation
- Wait until you are done having children to get CoolSculpting
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Exercise regularly
Are you ready to achieve the body you’ve always wanted while eliminating stubborn fat? Schedule a CoolSculpting consultation with Laser Aesthetic Center today.