2 weeks post op CoolSculpting. Should areas treated be red and hot to touch?

Question

I'm 2 weeks post op coolsculpting. Areas are redened and very hot to touch... is this normal? I'm experiencing all other side effects swelling itching mild discomfort... the redness and hotness of skin worries me? I haven't read anyone complaining of this adverse effect. Do I need a antibiotic?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Swelling and bruising are common side effects of coolsculpting but the area feeling hot is not a usual response. Please follow up with your provider.Regards,

Ramandeep Sidhu, MD · Answer

I recommend you see the provider to get it evaluated. Redness can persist sometime if you were bruised after the treatment but area feeling hot is usually not the case. Now the extreme case would be if you are having excessive response in the form of inflammation, but only way to determine is by physical examination to rule out any infection (very unlikely). Swelling/itching and mild discomfort are all in the range of symptoms patients feel after treatment. Good luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Some redness can be typical, but feeling hot to the touch is not. I recommend following up with your Doctor for a formal evaluation. Keep in mind, for best results with Coolsculpting, a combination approach is needed. I recommend adding radiofrequency treatments like Vanquish, Venus Legacy, Exilis Ultra for skin tightening and with Z wave/Cellutone for skin smoothing. VASER with ThermiRF is a great alternative. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It is not unusual to develop some temporary discoloration after CoolSculpting, and this can include bruising or redness, but I would say that it is unusual to have the area feel hot to touch.  I would recommend contacting the physician who treated you so that you can be evaluated in person.

Frank P. Albino, MD · Answer

I am sorry to learn of your recent issues following Cool Sculpt.

Most patients will have a 2 week "recovery" following this procedure which often includes some swelling, discomfort and bruising.  It is not part of the normal recovery, however, to develop red and hot skin/soft tissue.  I would recommend returning to the medical professional who performed your procedure for his/her evaluation. Best of luck to you!

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare professional. Your reliance on any information or content provided in the guide is solely at your own risk. You should always seek the advice of your physician or healthcare professional for any questions you have about your own medical condition.

Mariam Cappiello, MD · Answer

Coolsculpting has typical side effects associated with it such as: swelling, numbness, redness, tingling, bruising, firmness, stinging, tenderness, cramping, itching, and skin sensitivity. These side effects are temporary and, in general, they should resolve within days to weeks. As with any medical procedure, please follow up with your physician if there is any concern about side effects.

Vinay Aggarwal, MD · Answer

Mild discomfort, redness, and numbness from areas that were not treated are just a few of the side effects of the coolsculpting procedure. While an inconvenience, these side effects are usually present for a few weeks to a month or so after the procedure. However, if the pain persists and becomes more than just a nuisance, consult your physician.

Eric C. Cappiello, MD · Answer

Coolsculpting has typical side effects associated with it such as: swelling, numbness, redness, tingling, bruising, firmness, stinging, tenderness, cramping, itching, and skin sensitivity. These side effects are temporary and, in general, they should resolve within days to weeks. As with any medical procedure, please follow up with your physician if there is any concern about side effects.

Jack Berdy, MD · Answer

You should call your doctor and be re-evaluated for the redness and warmth in the treated areas.  These are some of the basic signs of inflammation which can be triggered by coolsculpting as a normal part of the process.  However, since it is over two weeks from treatment it would be best to be evaluated in person. Good luck.
Dr. Berdy

Scott Gerrish, DO · Answer

Following CoolSculpting it is considered normal to experience transient numbness, bruising, soreness, and mild warmth in the treated area. It is however unusual to experience redness and hotness at the 2 week mark. I have seen patients with a post treatment course similar to yours as a result of a mild panniculitis (an inflammatory process of the fat layer) following CoolSculpting.  I recommend a follow up with the treating physician for an accurate diagnosis. 
Be Well
Dr G  - CoolSculpting University East Coast Medical Director

2 weeks post op CoolSculpting. Should areas treated be red and hot to touch?

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