First round of CoolSculpting on inner and outer thighs. Outer thighs are swollen, bruised, and numb. Advice? (photos)

Dear Teplmmons:   Swelling is very common following Cool Sculpting as is to a lesser extent bruising.  Your bruising is probably slightly more extensive than most but not completely unseen.  This usually passes in 7 to 10 days.  The numbness may persist for several weeks or more.  Give it some time.  You have a lot of healing to do inside.Best of luck to you!G. Robert Meger MD

Swelling and bruising are common side effects after a treatment of Cool Sculpting.  The treated fat cells will go through an inflammation process before they shrivel up and die.  The swelling & bruising is temporary but can last 10 days.  Numbness to the treated area can last longer.  

Thanks for your question about coolsculpting.  Normally the bruising is minimal to non-existent, but it is OK and reasonable to expect that some patients may bruise like you have.  In the big picture everything looks OK and it looks like you got effective treatment to the areas of your concern.  Gentle massage with lotions like cocoa butter and Jergens have been effective for our patients.  Discuss your concerns with your cool sculpting specialist and stay positive and patient.  It takes about 90 days to see your results.  Best Wishes

Bruising is a normal expectation after CoolSculpting. It could last a few weeks. Numbness could also last for a few weeks in the treated areas. Patients that have their outer thighs treated may experience late onset pain. This typically starts around day 3 post treatment. Please follow up with your CoolSculpting specialist if you still have concerns about your treatment.