What is the preferred pain medication for CoolSculpting if you can't use anti-inflammatories?

Question

I'll be starting Coolsculpting treatment on my flanks first just to test it out. I read somewhere to stay away from anti-inflammatory meds, so just wondering what's the preferred pain med choice?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It's unlikely that an OTC anti-inflammatory would affect your results, but if you're concerned you can speak with your Dr about alternatives. I know you're going to test out Coolsculpting. I  usually suggest Coolscupting in combination with radiofrequency treatments such as Vanquish, Venus Legacy or Exilis with Z wave/X wave/Cellutone for the best results. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Mike Majmundar, MD · Answer

Most patients treated in the flank region typically do not need any pain medication other than Tylenol. If you experience any pain you may want to contact your provider. As a reminder do not take any Non-Steroidal anti- inflammatory during the first 2-4 weeks for best results.

Tina B. West, MD · Answer

CoolSculpting does rely on inflammation to achieve fat cell death, however, studies have shown that ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), have no effect on CoolSculpting treatment results.  If you take an NSAID, there may be an increased chance of bruising afterward (due to their inherent anti-coagulation action).  On the other hand, acetaminophen (tylenol) does not affect inflammation or bleeding/bruising so that may be a better choice for you.  Discuss all your concerns at your personal consultation.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

No where does it say that these medications will affect your Coolsculpting results.  Some people suggest that the inflammation is necessary to obtain the best results but this is not studied and is just an assumption.

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

Pain and Discomfort with CoolSculpting is minimal and most patients do not need any pain medication. The new CoolAdvantage applicator which can be used on the flanks makes the treatment even more comfortable.

Stanley Kovak, MD · Answer

The pain response to CoolSculpting varies for each patient and you may or may not experience mild discomfort from the treatment. Currently there is no research to-date indicating whether a pain reliever like Tylenol is better than an anti-inflammatory medication (such as Motrin) after a CoolSculpting procedure. Typically your discomfort will subside after 3-7 days, although it could occur sooner. If you are concerned about using Motrin or Tylenol, you could also use a compression garment to help with any discomfort.

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Most physicians do not recommend taking anti-inflammatory medicines because the inflammation of Coolsculpting helps the fat cells die. Many patients do not to take pain medicines after Coolsculpting. You may find Tylenol helpful. Good Luck!

Arun Rao, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. One of the great things about coolsculpting is that there is minimal discomfort after the procedure. If the plastic surgeon you are going to offers the advantage hand piece then you will have even less pain than the older hand piece. We typically recommend ibuprofen to treat any discomfort after the procedure. I hope that helps. Good luck.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Coolsculpting is the type of procedure that you do not need any pain meds nor would I recommend any pain meds or NSAIDS.  Please consult an expert.  Best, Dr. Green

Jill C. Fichtel, MD · Answer

Some patients experience mild pain and/or swelling of the abdominal skin after treatment with CoolSculpting.  For these patients, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are adequate.  These medications will not affect your results.

What is the preferred pain medication for CoolSculpting if you can't use anti-inflammatories?

Answers (12)

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