Pros and cons of CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting®, also called cryolipolysis, is a noninvasive body contouring procedure that involves freezing fat cells underneath the skin. Once the process is complete, the destroyed fat cells are broken down and gradually eliminated from the body by the liver. Usually, a CoolSculpting® session lasts for approximately an hour and costs around $1,000 for a single area of treatment.
Statistics
CoolSculpting® has developed quite recently and is the registered trademark procedure of ZELTIQ® Aesthetics. The FDA granted approval to this procedure in 2012. There are a limited amount of clinical research studies that support the positive effects of the procedure. However, ZELTIQ® Aesthetics states that the procedure lowers fat cell concentration by 20%-25% in a given treatment area.
Most people who have undergone the procedure notice changes after a few days. However, the complete effect of the procedure is not seen before one to four months.
What are the risks involved?
CoolSculpting® is considered safer than traditional fat-reduction procedures like liposuction. This majorly due to the fact that CoolSculpting® is a non-surgical procedure. While there is little to no risk, the procedure can have side effects. These side effects are usually minor in nature and affect only the treated area, which subside in a matter of a few days or weeks after the procedure. It is also a normal occurrence to feel numbness in the treatment area for approximately a month.
Common side effects of CoolSculpting® in the targeted area are
- Firmness
- Redness
- Swelling
- Stinging
- Tenderness
- Sensitive skin
- Bruising
- Muscle cramps
- Mild pain
What are the positive effects?
The primary benefit of CoolSculpting® is that fat cells are completely destroyed and eliminated from the body. In case of weight loss through diet and exercise, fat cells can grow again, leading to weight gain.
Some additional benefits of CoolSculpting® include
- Little to no risks involved
- Negligible chance of scarring or infection
- No need for hospitalization or additional rest
