If you’ve been thinking about getting a coolsculpting treatment but are worried about the cost, risks, and unsuitability, read this article. It covers the basic details of the procedure, the common side effects, and potential complications. Also, you’ll learn about the cost and benefits of cryolipolysis. Unlike liposuction, cryolipolysis is painless, and most patients report no discomfort or recovery time.
Common side effects
While the results of CoolSculpting treatment are usually impressive, there are some potential side effects. These are usually minor and temporary, and seldom require further medical attention. The most common side effects are redness, numbness, swelling, bruising, and tingling. These are the result of prolonged exposure to suction and cold. While these effects are generally not life-threatening, you should consult a doctor if you experience any of these.
Although CoolSculpting treatment involves freezing fat cells, it should not be performed on people with diabetes or hypertension. It should also not be performed on obese people because it is less effective. The procedure is safe and has already been performed on more than eight million people worldwide. It is an in-office procedure that takes about 35 minutes per application. Multiple sessions may be required to remove fat evenly. This procedure should be used only by people who are in good health and have normal kidney function. Patients with any medical condition should always consult with their doctor before the procedure.
Complications
Although the procedure is generally safe, some patients have experienced mild stinging, aching, or pain around the treatment site. This is normal as the intense cold temperatures used in the procedure cause localized swelling. In one study, five54 patients underwent cryolipolysis. Patients reported a range of post-treatment pain from 3 to 11 days. A rare but serious side effect, paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, was also reported in a study of 554 patients. The study authors concluded that the cause was unknown, but noted that it is highly likely to be related to the patient’s genetic makeup.
CoolSculpting uses controlled cooling to kill fat cells under the skin. Although it can be used to reduce stubborn fat, it does not produce immediate results. After the procedure, the affected area may enlarge, resulting in an enlarged, firm mass beneath the skin. This can be painful and requires liposuction. Patients may need several sessions to achieve the desired result. The results last for several months. The body then naturally eliminates the dead cells.
Cost
The FDA-cleared procedure known as CoolSculpting is the gold standard for permanent fat removal. This non-surgical procedure eliminates about 25% of the subcutaneous fat in the treated area. However, this procedure is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Thankfully, the procedure can be financed. Patients can apply for financing through CareCredit, and some lenders even offer low interest rates for as long as 12 months.
The total cost of CoolSculpting treatment varies depending on where you want to have the procedure done. For instance, one treatment on your stomach will cost less than a treatment on your chin. However, if you plan to treat more than one area, it is important to budget for at least two treatments. This way, you can avoid paying twice the price. As with any cosmetic procedure, the price will depend on the provider’s experience level and certification.
Unsuitability
The treatment is performed by a physician or a medical spa professional, who uses a specific device that applies cold to fat tissue. The device passes over the targeted area, which is usually the thighs or abdomen. A small vacuum-assisted applicator cup is used to apply the cooling gel to the target area. If the patient has a weak skin tone, this treatment may not be suitable for them.
While CoolSculpting is effective at reducing stubborn fat, the procedure is not suitable for everyone. Although this treatment destroys existing fat cells, it does not prevent the growth of new ones, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for ensuring long-term results. Liposuction, which is more invasive, is another popular method of fat reduction. Compared to CoolSculpting, liposuction carries a greater risk of complications. One study showed that liposuction alone resulted in a 0.7% major complication rate; the risk of complications increased significantly when the procedures were combined.