Is Coolsculpting Safe on the Nerves?

CoolSculpting is a noninvasive and nonsurgical procedure. The side effects can include swelling, bruising, tenderness, redness, and numbness. All of these side effects are temporary. Sometimes the nerves can be temporarily stretched out due to the suction of the applicator which can cause temporary numbness or nerve pain, but they are not damaged by the procedure. Most side effects subside within a couple of weeks at most.

Despite the large numbers of cases of CoolSculpting that have been performed since the company's development of this non-surgical fat reduction treatment via freezing the fat, there have been very few reported cases of complications and nerve injury is not a commonly reported problem. There may be some sensitivity in the first few weeks, which is understandable, but it is self-limiting. Possibly there could be rare problems with off-label uses but typically the procedure is done on the flanks ( love handles ) and abdomen without problems.

 

The information provided in Dr. Shelton's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice.  The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.

 

Thank you for your question. There are several side effects associated with CoolSculpting these are swelling, bruising, tenderness, redness, and numbness. However, these side effects are temporary. Sometimes the nerves can be temporary stretched out due to the pressure of the applicator and this causes short term nerve pain.  However, they are not damaged by this process. Most of these side effects decrease within a couple of weeks. Best of Luck!

Zeltiq's CoolSculpting cryolipolysis technique is designed to lower the temperature sufficiently to destroy fat cells, but not enough to affect tissues, nerves or skin. Sometimes the nerves get stretched when the original applicator sucks skin and fat into the handle. However, this is not a permanent condition. The main side effects reported by patients over the years include swelling, soreness and bruising. Please see a board-certified dermatologist to find out if CoolSculpting is right for you. 

Thank you for
your question. There are several side effects associated with CoolSculpting these
are swelling, bruising, tenderness, redness, and numbness. However, these side
effects are temporary. Sometimes the nerves can be temporary stretched out due
to the pressure of the applicator and this causes short term nerve pain.  However, they are not damaged by this process.
Most of these side effects decrease within a couple of weeks. Best of Luck!

CoolSculpting's cryolipolysis is designed to affect only fat cells, not skin, nerves or other tissue. Numbness or tingling can occur following CoolSculpting, but these side effects are temporary. When administered properly, CoolSculpting will not cause nerve damage. Please consult a board-certified dermatologist to see if you are a good candidate for CoolSculpting.

The FDA has approved coolsculpting for the saddle bags, and the results are impressive and safety excellent at centers that utilize proper technique. Patient selection is key, and you may be a candidate. Consult with a board certified physician who can offer surgical and nonsurgical options to determine the best option for you.

CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared for the flanks (love handles) and abdomen and is proven to be a safe and effective treatment. Typically, there is minimal to no downtime after the treatment though patients may experience temporary pain or discomfort. Your nerves will not be injured. Best of luck with your procedure. 

 

The temporary numbness is a normal expected outcome that is completely temporary.  The possible explanation is damage to the sheath that surrounds nerves called "myelin" which has a high fatty content.  These completely regrow and sensation will return.  As one of the largest centers in South Florida, I have never had a patient with permanent nerve damage.