Is It Common to Feel Itchy 5 Days After CoolSculpting (Abdominal Area)?

Question

I had CoolSculpting 5 days ago. Really no problems. I expected it to be tender, and it is--but not to the extent that I cannot workout. This morning the area feels really itchy inside of me, and its getting worse. Its not really painful, just uncomfortable. Is this because the area is healing and the numbness is wearing off? How long does this last? Is there anything I can do? I cannot take anything that will make me sleepy, as I am preparing for a trial and need to think. Thanks.

David L. Kaufman, MD FACS · Answer

We have a long history with Coolsculpting... in fact, our practice did a fair amount of the research and development on the device with Zeltiq.  We have treated certainly over one hundred patients... probably closer to 250 or so.  Many of the patients have a variety of sensations afterwards, from itchiness to numbness to shooting pains.  Most resolve quickly, but some may take a few months to completely go away.

	We haven't found any medicine to make it go away quicker,.... just tincture of time!

	Hope that eases your mind!

	Best - Dr. Kaufman

Mike Majmundar, MD · Answer

Itching is a normal side effect of Coolsculpting so don’t be alarmed. This may persist up to 2 weeks following your procedure. I recommend taking oral Benadryl for this. You can also try icing the area as some patients find this to help.

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Swelling, numbness, bruising and itching are all normal side effects from this treatment. For the swelling compression garments can help and the itching can be relieved from OTC Benadryl or other anti-histamines. All of these symptoms should only last around 10 days. Best wishes.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

The numbness eventually goes away.  Mine took 3 weeks to dissipate.  There is nothing you can do to make it go away faster.  It just is what it is!  The pain can be more or less with the second treatment... can't predict which it will be.My best,Sheila Nazarian

Steven H. Williams, MD · Answer

Itching can be a normal side effect a few days after having done a treatment with CoolSculpting. It is temporary and should resolve over the next few days. In the meantime, you may try applying a topical anti-itch cream or try a non-drowsy antihistamine. If it persists, you should always contact the person who performed your treatment for advice.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Itching may be a sign of the body digesting dead fat cells. Usually the antihistamines don't help this itching sensation. some people note lessening of the itching by using a compression garment such as Spanx, or greater compression with liposuction garments. massaging the area may also help. it usually is temporary and can last a few weeks or more, in some patients.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for question. It is common to have some itching after CoolSculpting treatment. This should resolve in 2-3 weeks. If this persists, please follow up with your treating physician. Best of Luck!

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

You can use over the counter anti-inflammatories.  I also place patients in compression.

Please find
an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and member of the Aesthetic
Society using the Smart Beauty Guide. 
These Plastic Surgeons can guide you on all aspects of facial surgery,
breast augmentation and body procedures including CoolSculpting® tummy tucks
or mommy makeovers!

Michael Law, MD · Answer

Itching can be normal following a CoolSculpting procedure. It should not anything to be concerned about. But, of course you should report any unusual feelings or experiences to your physician

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.

	Yes, itchiness of the treated area is one of the side effects of this treatment.  It should improve with time and normally goes away within the first 2-3 weeks.  You can speak with your doctor to see if he/she can recommend anything topical if you are very uncomfortable.

	Best wishes.

COOLSCULPTING PROVIDERS NEAR YOU

Is It Common to Feel Itchy 5 Days After CoolSculpting (Abdominal Area)?

Answers (14)

COOLSCULPTING PROVIDERS NEAR YOU