Coolsculpting Applicator Size for Abs?

Each person is different. It depends on how the Dat pulls when it is pinched. also depends on volume of fat. I have found that if there is a small amount of fat around the belly button, the small applicators are better.

Treatment with CoolSculpting should be done with the whole area in mind and a three dimensional plan of sculpting the fat away by using, often, multiple applicators, with a slight overlap, to effect the best result.  I have not found in our NYC practice that CoolSculpting hurts more with a large than a small applicator. Pain depends more on the patient, and how close to a bony prominence the applicator is positioned.  There also are unknown reasons for painful treatment in one region and not the other. Some patients just have a lesser pain threshold than others, but I have not found in more than three years of performing coolsculpting in NYC, that the larger applicator hurts more than the smaller ones.

The information provided in Dr. Shelton's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice.  The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.

 

Typically, the Coolcore (the smaller suction applicator) and Coolmax (the larger suction applicator) are most often used for the abdomen. If there is an insufficient amount of pinchable fat, then coolsmooth applicator which does not utilize suction can be used. Typically, the templates for coolcore and coolmax are used in the examination process unless the area is clearly too small or too large for a particular applicator. Express your concern, and the treating physician may be able to tailor the treatment plan to suit your needs.

Only during a consultation can you learn which applicator makes most sense for the areas of concern. In my office, we offer compression garments to all CoolSculpting patients. Plastic surgeons have used compression garments for years following liposuction and tummy tucks to help improve skin quality and reduce discomfort.

 

It is true we do see more discomfort following Coolsculpting of the lower abdominal area as compared to all other areas. Typically it resolves in 2-6 weeks.

Thank you for your question.

Yes, in general, there is more discomfort when the abdomen is treated (compared to the love handles) and more discomfort is felt with the larger applicator BUT you may want to discuss your concerns with your treating physician.  I think you should allow the doctor to choose the correct applicator size that will give you the best results.

The discomfort that patients feel can generally be alleviated with oral pain medication and it is normally self limiting.

Best Wishes.

Coolsculpting offers 2 sizes to the applicators.  Certainly, the smaller and fewer applicators you use, the less risk of post treatment discomfort to the areas.  That being said, the determination of which size applicator to use is best left to the doctor and the physical exam prior to your procedure.  I would discuss your concerns with your doctor and perhaps do only 1-2 treatments on a given day and do the rest of your treatments on a later date.  I have found that patients with post-treatment discomfort can be easily cared for with oral medications.  There is increased risk of having discomfort when you try to do more treatments on a given day.  I hope that helps answer your question.