Since its initial approval in 2010, CoolSculpting has become one of the most popular and obvious choices for patients looking to get rid of stubborn fat without having to go under the knife. Using a process called cryolipolysis, the noninvasive procedure freezes and removes superficial fat cells in a safe and effective way. Unlike traditional fat-reduction and fat-eliminating surgeries, CoolSculpting requires no downtime or aftercare—but it does demand patience. Depending on the area treated and how quickly your body metabolizes fat, it typically takes between three weeks and three months to see final results. There are, however, certain things patients can do—and not do—to potentially speed up this process and maximize your CoolSculpting results, while making your experience as pleasant as possible.
Know what to expect during a CoolSculpting treatment
While your provider will likely explain how the CoolSculpting technology works, before your treatment, it’s important to know what to expect as the recipient. The procedure usually takes between 35 and 75 minutes, but this can vary greatly, depending on the area being treated and which attachment is being used—so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly and arrange your schedule to accommodate a longer session.
Patients generally find that CoolSculpting is very tolerable and that the results outweigh any discomfort, but it’s not uncommon for the treatment to be somewhat uncomfortable. “We know that, because of the very cold temperatures used to selectively eradicate the fat cells, there can be some level of discomfort with this procedure, depending on both the person and the location being treated,” explains Dr. Janet Allenby, a board-certified dermatologist in Delray Beach, Florida. “During the first 5 to 10 minutes, patients should expect to feel intense cold, with some stinging and burning sensations, and some may feel a mild cramping sensation, but after 10 minutes, the area will go numb for the duration of the treatment.”
Get comfortable during your treatment
Discomfort is most common when the stomach or arm fat is treated, and your provider should do everything they can to make you feel comfortable during the procedure, but it can be helpful to wear comfortable clothing and warm socks or bring a blanket and also listen to a favorite podcast. “At the end of the treatment, there can be some discomfort as the area is massaged and the tissue begins to warm up,” Dr. Allenby says. “Think of it as if you’re in a snowstorm and you forget your gloves—your hands are really uncomfortable as they get cold in the beginning and then sort of go numb, but when they start warming up, there is that uncomfortable feeling of a reheating, tingling sensation.”
Stay comfortable after your treatment
It’s important to do everything you can to feel comfortable during CoolSculpting, but it’s equally important to ensure comfort as soon as your session is over. “Immediately after treatment, patients can expect to feel some mild stinging, burning, and numbness, and they may also notice swelling and redness in the treated area,” Dr. Allenby notes. “If patients are experiencing more discomfort, they can take Tylenol to alleviate their symptoms, and in some rare cases, the provider can prescribe stronger medication, if necessary.” You should never apply ice packs to the treated area, since that can damage the skin and increase the risk of frostbite.
Following the procedure, you should massage the treated area for two minutes, twice a day, for the first two weeks. “This will help to expedite the cell-removal process, as the massage is bringing blood flow to the area,” the dermatologist says. Most patients choose to continue wearing loose clothing immediately after CoolSculpting, but some find that they feel more comfortable in compression garments.
Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water after any medical treatment is always a good idea, but because it can help your body eliminate fat cells, it’s especially smart following CoolSculpting. To give the procedure the best possible setup to work its magic, be sure to hydrate well—before and in the weeks after.
Look out for possible side effects
Temporary redness, swelling, bruising, cramping, aching, itching, numbness, and firmness are all common side effects of CoolSculpting and should resolve on their own within a few weeks. If you experience any of these reactions (or some of the more rare, yet reversible, side effects) for longer, however, you should consult your doctor.
Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medication
Following treatment, it’s recommended that patients refrain from taking any anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, for at least a week. “We do not want to suppress the inflammatory response, because this is how the fat cells are eliminated after the treatment,” Dr. Allenby explains.
Related: Who Is a Good Candidate for CoolSculpting—and Who Isn’t
Use a tightening skin-care product
While it’s not required, some doctors suggest applying a tightening skin-care product to the treated area after CoolSculpting. “We recommend Alastin Skincare TransFORM Body Treatment,” says Dr. Allenby, noting that studies performed by the brand show that the technology can help accelerate the results of a body sculpting treatment like CoolSculpting. “It also helps to tighten the skin and helps with the overall appearance of the skin texture.”
Get lots of exercise
Many fat-eliminating treatments require patients to avoid exercise while they’re recovering, but CoolSculpting actually works best when you work out. “Since our fat cells are excreted through sweat and urine, we always encourage patients to increase their cardio,” Dr. Allenby explains. “It will stimulate the process by increasing the blood flow and sweating.” Cardio is just one way to stimulate the all-important lymphatic system that flushes out fluid buildup of fat cells—eating whole foods and low-fat proteins, drinking plenty of water, and even doing deep breathing all help speed up results.
Have realistic expectations
CoolSculpting results can be quite dramatic, but it takes time and patience to see them. An independent study showed that CoolSculpting reduces fat cell volume in the treated area by 14.7–28.5%, while clinical trials by the manufacturer showed a similar 20–25% reduction in fat-layer thickness. However, like all fat-reduction procedures, it’s also not a perfect or permanent solution unless you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
