Painful Itching After CoolSculpting - Is This Normal?

Itching is one of the possible side effects after the Coolsculpting. It normally lasts for 3-4 days but in rare cases it may take 2 weeks before it gets better. Other common side effects include mild bruising, cramping, needles and pins sensation under the skin or tingling. You can take Motrin or Ibuprofen and if your symptoms last for more than 2 weeks you should contact your doctor for an evaluation.

As the body heals itching and soreness is very common. Realize that although this is not surgery actual cells have been affected with treatment and there is a normal inflammatory then healing phase. This is a completely normal part of your healing phase. 

Many patients experience mild discomfort (tingling, soreness, itching) after Coolsculpting.  A small minority of patients experience moderate to severe discomfort.  Thankfully, the discomfort persists for only a few weeks. 

To help control pain, I recommend starting off with tylenol and ibuprofen.  For patients that need additional pain relief, gabapentin (a medication that helps with nerve pain) can be very helpful. 

CoolSculpting does cause fat cell death and the body metabolizes the dead cells. You may be experiencing greater than normal itching and soreness but in all likelihood this should all go away. See your doctor to be examined.

Itchiness and pain/tenderness is very common after coolsculpting.  These symptoms can last for a few weeks and will gradually resolve.  However, if there is any change to the overlying skin, such as redness or scaliness; you should go to your doctor to have it evaluated.