Jeffrey Hinton, MD

When sculpting the chin area, if a client has an appropriate area of opportunity we may use two applications during the first session to slim the direct (frontal view) visual appearance(as your provider may have done).  The second session we most often use one applicator placed in a centered area to decrease volume to slim the profile (side view) appearance.  Your results should be more visible after your second session.  Discuss your concerns with your physician at your appointment tomorrow and answer any questions.   They will most likely take pictures to show your progress up to this point as well.

We have used CoolSculpting for several of our curvier clients with lovely results on their bra fat areas.  Most have been content with their weight but wanted a smoother appearance.  CoolSculpting has decreased the bulges and left a smoother silhouette for tees, tanks, or dresses.  During the consultation we do advise that they plan for a repeat treatment in the same area 60-90 days post initial treatment.  We have also treated lower ab rolls (or panniculus) with a decrease in fat volume but you should see a certified physician for an evaluation for the best treatment options. 

CoolSculpting is non invasive and does not affect skin, tissue, or muscles with proper treatment.  CoolSculpting is used to target and eliminate stubborn fat pockets and should not affect muscle strength.  Clients may experience a feeling similar to muscle soreness after treatment but muscles aren't actually involved.  If you are able to participate in a yoga class prior to treatment you should be able to resume classes immediately following treatment.  Please consult with a Certified CoolSculpting Provider in your area for additional information.

Patient positioning depends on the type of applicator being used, placement/treatment area, and even the type of table or chair being used. We identify the stubborn fat areas while the client is standing and mark it with templates.   When treating the abdomen, once the client has been marked, we ask them to get into a reclined position at which time we prep and then treat the area.  When treating flanks (love handles), back fat, or bra fat we place the applicator while the client is standing and then assist them in sitting or reclining to a comfortable position.  Applicators for the inner thighs are placed while standing, applicators for outer thighs are placed while the client is reclined with legs bent at a 45 degree angle.  Find a certified CoolSculpting practice near you for additional information. 

Zeltiq just released the Cool Petite applicator for the arms specifically designed for fat pockets on the upper arms.  Coolsculpting has been done on the upper arms with the CoolAdvantage applicators previously but the Petite applicator is proportioned to fit the area better.  Contact a Coolsculpting provider near you for a consultation and in person evaluation of problem areas.

Coolsculpting is considered safe and effective.  Side effects usually involve slight swelling, bruising, numbness, tingling, and tightness in the treatment area.  Swelling and bruising usually resolves in a week.  Swelling is due to a natural inflammatory response.  The Cool Smooth applicator used on the outer thighs is different than the others as it does not use suction.  The applicator is placed flat on the area to be treated.  You may still experience numbness or tingling for a few weeks. You may resume normal activity immediately after treatment.  Discuss any concerns with your provider.  They may also offer a post treatment regimen.

Soreness, swelling, numbness, bruising and tingling are normal following treatment with Coolsculpting. You may experience only one side effect while someone else experiences all of them.  Coolsculpting should not cause nerve damage as it is designed to target fat cells and leave the skin and tissue unharmed.  Bruising can occur in more petite patients as there may be less fat volume to fill the applicator cups.  Tenderness and bruising should subside within a week.  Numbness may last a little longer (up to one month).  If your symptoms increase contact your treating provider for follow up care.  We advise our patients to use Tylenol if possible and avoid anti inflammatory medications for at least one week after treatment. 

Coolsculpting is advertised as having no down time.  It should not be painful.  Slight swelling, bruising, and numbness is completely normal but if you didn't experience these symptoms it does not mean the treatment was not effective.  Numbness in the treatment area should also subside in another week or two.  You may start to notice a difference in how your clothes fit and results should continue to improve for 30-90 days after treatment.  Follow up with your Coolsculpting provider for any concerns you may have and for post treatment evaluation.

Inflammation after Coolsculpting treatment may last from 1-3 weeks and we advise our clients to use Tylenol versus Ibuprofen during that time frame.  Inflammation is part of the process and Tylenol helps reduce discomfort without affecting the natural response to treatment.  I advise you follow up with the physician who performed your Coolsculpting session regarding your results if you have not already done so.  You may also have your shoulder injury checked by a physician as well to make sure you haven't damaged anything.  Hope you have a speedy recovery.

Most women experience vaginal discharge as part of a natural process associated with their menstrual cycle or during times of intimacy.  If discharge is heavier than normal, thick in consistency, or is noted with a foul odor, a yeast or bacterial infection may be to blame.  The Coolsculpting treatment should not cause or increase discharge.  If you continue to experience these symptoms, or if they worsen, you should schedule an appointment with a gynecologist for an examination.