I underwent Coolsculpting for the first time yesterday. For this session, I did 6 cycles, 35 minutes each (2 upper adbomens, 2 lower abdomens, & 2 flanks). My appointment was at 10 am and I finished a little before 4 pm. I could have opted to do 2 sides at a time but I honestly preferred individual cycles for each. First, because I was worried that the device will pop out and a cycle will be wasted (you pay per cycle). Second, the suction can be quite uncomfortable and I didn't want to deal with double the pain.
Provider
My experience with Perfect57 was pleasant. The place is cozy and they have 1 room dedicated only for Coolsculpting. Adriane, my esthetician, is wonderful and she really helped me pull through. I highly recommend this place.
Treatment
In terms of the actual treatment, I was told that the experience is different for each person. Some people get nauseous, sick, or cry during the treatment. I guess I have a high tolerance for pain so I was able to handle it. The most uncomfortable for me was the 1st 5 minutes of each cycle and the massage afterwards. During the cycle, you will feel your skin being sucked, then cold, then completely numb. After the device is taken off, the area will be extremely sensitive to the touch. When massaged, the area has a consistency of playdough.
Tips
If you are seriously considering doing Coolsculpting for unwanted belly fat, here are my tips--
1. Wear comfortable clothing on treatment day. Do not wear jeans. Your stomach will be very sore and most probably be swollen after the treatment.
2. Bring compression garment to wear right after the treatment. I highly recommend Spanx.
3. Bring snacks! If your session is long like mine, you will get hungry.
4. If you go to Perfect57, they can give you access to Netflix. Otherwise, bring something that will occupy you for 35 minutes or more.
5. I researched a lot about this procedure but no one ever mentioned how sticky you will get afterwards. The protective lining that they put between your skin and the device is made of honey and fructose. It is very sticky. I guess just be prepared for that.
Day After
I am swollen and my flanks are bruised. If I am not wearing my Spanx, I feel my belly jiggling. My stomach is still very sensitive to touch. I will be wearing my Spanx to work for a few days. I will give everyone an update in a week! Enjoy the pictures!
Updated on 17 Nov 2018:
I went back to my usual gym routine today and also left the house without my Spanx on. I do still feel numbness in some parts of my stomach and is still quite swollen. I feel some stabbing pain some times but it's been bearable. If you check out my pics, you can see that I still have some bruising on my flanks.
Updated on 25 Nov 2018:
No more pain, numbness, or sharp pain. However, I still feel swollen and my stomach is definitely bigger than before the procedure. I was told this is a normal side effect at this point. Hoping for noticeable results in a month!
Updated on 15 Dec 2018:
Nothing much to report. No more numbness in my stomach but I do not see any change either. If anything, It looks like I am back to my pre-Coolscupting bod. I'm keeping my "Not Sure" Coolscupting worthiness for now. Let's see how it goes in 2 months.
Updated on 12 Jan 2019:
Finally reached my 2-month mark. I definitely see a change but nothing too significant. I haven't been back to Perfect57 since the treatment but from the looks of it, I might need to go in for a 2nd treatment. Do I want to? I'm still undecided.
