Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia after Cool Sculpting?

Question

Cool Sculpting ruined my body, where the machine was is now bigger and hard. I had it over 6 months ago. I suspect I have PAH. are their any fixes for this? I thought to lose weight, but I would think the same shape (protruding upper abdomen caused by Zeltiq machine) would still be there just on a smaller scale. Also, I'm at a optimal weight, it is not realistic for me to maintain a small weight to fix this. What can be done, short of invasive surgery. I'm so upset.

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

True Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH) is a rare delayed side effect of CoolSculpting. It happens in approximately 1 out of every 20,000 people who get CoolSculpting and for some reason is more common in men. At this time, there is no evidence of spontaneous resolution of PAH. When necessary, treatment of PAH has relied on liposuction or abdominoplasty.A little more common is prolonged induration and firmness of the treatment area which is caused by an exaggerated inflammatory response. This usually does resolve on its own, although it may take several months. I would make sure you have close continued follow up with your treating physician. Your physician should report this occurrence to the device manufacturer. Best of luck to you.

R. Brannon Claytor, MD, FACS · Answer

We could not agree with you more. While it is not clearly understood, the few patients who have such a condition when it is well documented with good pre and post procedures would do well to be in the treatment plan of a plastic surgeon. If your treating physician (and ask to see the physician) is not able to take your care to the next level with liposuction or a tummy tuck then you have limited options.

Plastic surgeons who are board certified have been well trained and are experienced at caring for patients whose have complex and varied medical outcomes and can adapt to multiple scenarios. Coolsculpting has treated millions of patients and have a very strong track record of delivering on improved abdominal contours with non surgical treatments. The best way to ensure that you are comfortable with your is to be with a physician who can treat you non surgically as well as surgically.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.This is rare but is treated with liposuctionThe best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

So sorry that you had to be the unlucky one.  You can have liposuction to correct the area of fat hyperplasia.

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

This is a rare but recognized occurrence following CoolSculpting in some patients.  Losing weight Oor performing other noninvasive procedures unfortunately will not address this condition.  Fortunately it has been highly responsive to liposuction.Again, I am sorry to learn of your experience.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

The best option for this condition is body contouring/liposuction.  I have seen cases and treated these successfully with body contouring but trying other types of non invasive options may be helpful -- ultrashape, velashape, liposonix etc.  Best, Dr. Emer

Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia after Cool Sculpting?

Answers (11)

Answer: PAH

Answer: PAH

Answer: PAH Following CoolSculpting.

Answer: PAH Following CoolSculpting.

Answer: Increased Fat After CoolSculpting, Only Treatment Is Liposuction

Answer: Increased Fat After CoolSculpting, Only Treatment Is Liposuction

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Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia after Cool Sculpting?

Answers (11)

Answer: PAH

Answer: PAH

Answer: PAH Following CoolSculpting.

Answer: PAH Following CoolSculpting.

Answer: Increased Fat After CoolSculpting, Only Treatment Is Liposuction

Answer: Increased Fat After CoolSculpting, Only Treatment Is Liposuction

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about CoolSculpting

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.