Is it normal that months after a Coolsculpting 3rd degree burn, the 8 areas treated that day are still swollen and cold?

Question

After last visit I noticed that I had a burn on my upper abdomen. Other areas seemed normal. Well the burn wound up being a 3rd degree burn. Still hasn’t healed completely. Still numb feeling in that area, deep grey discoloration, swollen and very cold. The other 7 areas I had done that day are still just as cold & swollen. The provider I saw does not seem concerned and has basically blown me off. I am wondering what I can do? It has been 2+ Months & im worried about permanent damage

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

It would be incredibly unusual to have a burn as you described as a result of Coolsculpting. I would highly encourage you to seek out a professional examination to determine precisely what might be going on.

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is absolutely not normal to have a burn following a CoolSculpting treatment.  My advice is to follow-up with your technologist and be evaluated by a physician.  Best of luck.

W. Tomasz Majewski, MD, FACS · Answer

No, it is not normal to have a 3rd degree burn after CoolSculpting.  The skin should have been cleaned with the skin prep wipe (this helps to protect the skin) and then the protective pad should have been applied.  The applicator is then applied over the pad and all this helps to protect your skin from frost bite.  If you are having these issues months after your treatment you should return to the provider for treatment.  If the provider is not helping you in this situation you should go to your primary care physician or seek out another CoolSculpting provider in the area.  They may be able to provider some help with this situation.  You may also want to report this to Allergan.

Dean P. Kane, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear bhr8605,

I am so sorry to hear of your issue! While "frostbite" is theoretically possible from "CoolSculpting" (CS), this is the most unusual response I have yet to hear.

Please consult with another Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, with a Certified CoolSculpting Team or an Academic Medical Center / Burn - Wound Center to review and examine your concerns. Provide for him / them:

1.    A copy of your medical file,

2.    A review of your past medical history including skin, hematologic, auto-immune, diabetic, vascular and vasospastic concerns,

3.    Photos of the progress.

The "CoolSculpting" machine by Zeltiq cools to a point that signals the fat cell to die and then warms the superficial skin; it never freezes. There are receptors and indicators to stop a faulty machine.

1.    Is it possible that a non-CS machine was used?

2.    Has this machine failed anytime previously?

3.    Please also locate and contact the CoolSculpting / Zeltiq / Allergan representative to review your case.

I wish you the very best with this concern!

James C. Grotting, MD, FACS · Answer

I am sorry that you are going through this and no, it is not normal. What is normal is a little redness, mild swelling and some hypersensitivity. This should last no more than 2 weeks and it would be unusual if any of these symptoms lasted longer than 6 weeks. The provider should report this as an adverse event if you are experiencing these symptoms and they are a direct result of the treatment. I hope you heal well from your burns.

Is it normal that months after a Coolsculpting 3rd degree burn, the 8 areas treated that day are still swollen and cold?

Answers (7)

Answer: 3rd degree burn following CoolSculpting

Answer: 3rd degree burn following CoolSculpting

Answer: Thermal Events

Answer: Thermal Events

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Is it normal that months after a Coolsculpting 3rd degree burn, the 8 areas treated that day are still swollen and cold?

Answers (7)

Answer: 3rd degree burn following CoolSculpting

Answer: 3rd degree burn following CoolSculpting

Answer: Thermal Events

Answer: Thermal Events

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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.