I'm exactly 4 weeks post Coolsculpting, weigh more and look worse! What can I do?

Question

I'm exactly 4 weeks post Coolsculpting. I had the large device on my lower ab, 2 smaller on upper ab, and smaller on each side. I've maintained a healthy diet, exercise more, drink lots of water. Last week I went for my follow up and pictures were taken for comparison, i think the before pics are better. I weigh more now, look much larger. I was told that it takes longer for people of Asian ethneticity to lose the fat ~ seriously? Was told to come back in 100 days for my next follow up.

Alan N. Larsen, MD · Answer

The results for CoolSculpting can be seen as early as 3 weeks, however full results are seen at 3 months.   Generally speaking the swelling will last for 2 to 3 weeks, however the numbness can persist up to several weeks. It is not unusual for a patient to have swelling in the abdominal area following CoolSculpting making the area appear larger following the procedure.  My suggestion to my patients is to wear a compression garment to assist with the swelling and discomfort post CoolSculpting procedure.  I would suggest a follow-up with the physician who performed the procedure at 12 weeks post treatment as per the recommended protocol with Zeltiq.

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Coolsculpting has some swelling, tenderness and bruising that patients can expect in the first couple of weeks. It is not connected to any weight gain. I would discuss this with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.Pictures are necessary to help youWhen the fat cells expand, it is typically not associated with weight gainThe best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

You will not see any difference from your Coolsculpting procedure if you do not go back down to your treatment weight.  You need to first lose the weight, then compare before and after photos.My best,Sheila Nazarian

Tina Venetos, MD · Answer

At 4 weeks after your Coolsculpting treatments most of the swelling will be gone and you will start noticing a gradual reduction.  It takes 12 weeks for full completion for the full result. I would continue what you are doing and have a follow up at the 12 week mark as is the protocol with the Zeltiq company makers of Coolsculpting.Best.

I'm exactly 4 weeks post Coolsculpting, weigh more and look worse! What can I do?

Answers (8)