How many sessions of CoolSculpting do you need?
Those who struggle with excess fat know too well the struggle with getting rid of it. While some of us see progress with changes in diet and regular exercise, others simply cannot get rid of stubborn pockets of fat. For these individuals, cosmetic intervention may be required.
While liposuction has long been the go-to treatment for removing unwanted fat, CoolSculpting has quickly become one of the most popular alternatives. It is a fat reduction method that involves no surgery or injections. As CoolSculpting is a relatively newer technology, few people are familiar with it. Many patients who are seeking surgery are pleasantly surprised to find out that they can achieve their goals with this non-surgical method.
As with any cosmetic procedure, patients naturally have many questions regarding how it works and what it will require of them down the line. Understanding the details of the procedure and how many sessions are needed helps patients get a good idea of the long-term financial and time commitments.
How does CoolSculpting work?
CoolSculpting treatments usually take about an hour to complete, and are comprised of the following steps:
- Patients are seated in a reclinable chair to ensure maximum comfort
- A gel pad is placed on the selected treatment area to protect the patient’s skin and ensure that the cool temperature is distributed evenly.
- The CoolSculpting device is placed onto the gel pad and then begins vacuuming the skin up toward the device. A near-freezing temperature is then applied to this area. There is some slight discomfort, which can be described as a pinching or tugging sensation, but it dissipates once the cold temperature has fully numbed the area.
- As the CoolSculpting device works its magic, patients are allowed to read, browse the internet, and relax.
- The cool temperature from the device freezes fat cells and communicates to the body to remove them. This is a process known as “cryolipolysis.” The body naturally metabolizes these cells over a span of a few months, and the treated area gradually starts to look slimmer. Patients can see their final results within 3 to 4 months.
What areas of the body can be treated with CoolSculpting?
This non-surgical fat reduction technique is most often employed on areas such as the inner thighs, “love handles” or flanks, mid-region, and upper arms.
Other areas that can be treated include:
- The area under the chin
- The male chest
- Back fat that accumulates around the shoulders
- The upper arms
- Bra fat
- Flanks
- The upper and lower stomach
- All areas of the thighs
- “Banana roll” below the buttocks
- The area above the front of the knee
- The inner knee area
How many CoolSculpting treatments will I need?
While a good number of patients who undergo CoolSculpting see results after just one treatment, most will need at least two sessions in order to achieve their desired look in the targeted area. There are even some cases where more than two treatments may be needed to achieve a satisfactory outcome. It is important to keep in mind that CoolSculpting is best suited for patients who are no more than 20 pounds away from their ideal body weight. Patients should be wary of surgical practices or med spas that claim to achieve remarkable results with only one treatment, as it is often not feasible.
What is the takeaway?
While CoolSculpting may seem like a relatively simple procedure, only a skilled and experienced doctor can achieve ideal results. It is vital that patients seek out a board-certified cosmetic practitioner to carry out their treatment. Most information can be gleaned from the consultation process, allowing patients to determine if the procedure is right for them.