Fatter Area After Coolsculpting?

Question

I had coolsculpting on low abs 7 weeks ago w/ small applicator. I had no side effects at first but 4 weeks later, the area became fatter and even developed a golf ball size lump of fat on one side. The whole overall area around my belly button is noticeably bigger. The dr confirmed it was fat and to wait it out. My question is if this is the rarely reported fat enlargement, how do you treat it? If it is just swelling, how long does it take typically to go away. Im scared to do another treatment.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

I wish we know who was at risk for this but we don't. I do let my patients know that if hyperplasia occurs (which it never has), I will perform liposuction on them for free... that is how rare it is.

Best of luck,

Sheila Nazarian

Best of luck,

Sheila Nazarian

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. There is a  small chance of developing paradoxical hyperplasia, where the remaining fat cells can get enlarged after the Coolsculpting treatment.  If this is the case, the treatment for it is laser liposuction.  I would recommend being treated under the supervision of  a Board Certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon for safest and best treatment option. I hope this helps.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

As fat dies, there is inflammation. there are times that a delayed inflammatory swelling can occur and this is temporary and can improve with lymphatic drainage treatments and external ultrasound therapy. Paradoxical fat hyperplasia (enlargement) is very rare, and not well understood, and there is not yet a consensus how best to treat this condition.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

On a rare occasion, a patient may develop paradoxical hyperplasia, where the remaining fat cells can get enlarged after the Coolsculpting treatment. This can occur in a surgical body contouring procedure as well. Consult with your treating physician to determine what is going on,

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

It is possible to develop a lump after coolsculpting.  I would wait a few months to see if the lump goes away.  There have been rare reports of paradoxical hyperplasia.  I would return after to the treating physician for periodic examinations to determine the best course of treatment.

Fatter Area After Coolsculpting?

Answers (6)