Can you have fat redistribute after CoolSculpting?I had it done on upper arms and now I have a fat sac over my elbows. (photo)

Question

I had coolsculpting done on both upper arms and while it did reduce the size of my arms, I know have a sac of fat over my elbows which bothers me a lot and looks bad. Can this be reversed?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

No, it is unlikely redistributed fat, but is most likely untreated fat. For circumferential areas like the arms, I recommend a hi definition procedure like VASER HI DEF to get the best results. Coolsculpting can remove stubborn areas of fat, but lacks the ability to create contours and definition. The best treatment for the arms is a combination of VASER HI DEF liposuction with ThermiRF and fat grafting. This combination will give you the most fat removal while also giving contour and definition to the arms. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a body sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Coolsculpting reduces fat cells in the treated area by 20 % - 25%. These cells are permanently eliminated from the body, they do not redistribute to other areas of the body. I recommend getting an in person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss treatment options for this area.Regards,

Edward Stokes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  In most instances, there is very little chance of fat redistribution post treatment with CoolSculpting, unless the patient gains a considerable amount of weight.  Based on the photo you have provided, it would appear that this is not a case of fat redistribution.  There are occasionally times when one needs to treat adjacent areas after the results of CoolSculpting have fully presented.  That would appear to be the case here.  I would suggest that you schedule a followup visit with your CoolSculpting provider and see if you can get these pockets of fat treated, so that your arms will attain a more balanced and pleasing appearance. Good luck with everything!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is unlikely that this is redistributed fat, it is most likely untreated fat. Coolsculpting lacks the ability to create contours and definition. I would suggest using Kybella in this area. I recommend having a follow up with your physician so this can be evaluated and you can discuss your concerns with him/her. Best of Luck!

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

this is a good question. The fat did not redistribute after the procedure. What probably happened was that the applicator did not cover that area and therefore the area was not treated.  You could have an additional coolsculpting treatment with different placement /overlap of applicator in that area. Other options would be to inject kybella into the area to dissolve the fat that is left or liposuction to even it out.

Darin Jackson, MD · Answer

The upper arms are very responsive to the CoolSculpting procedure.  The area you show just above the elbow would be untreated fat. Though without seeing you in person I cannot be definite, it is likely possible to successfully treat the localized deposits with the CoolMini applicator for the smaller areas.  The CoolMini was designed for small fat deposits (such as the chin or knees for example of other areas) and between the prior arm treatment(s) and CoolMini treatments, you should be able to have effectively treat the entire surface.  You should consult with an experienced CoolSculpting practitioner about the possibility of treatment.

Paul Pietro, MD · Answer

Hello 02121972,Thank you for your question and photo. Based on your photo and information provided very unlikely this is "redistributed fat" but more the result of untreated fat outside the area of the CoolSculpting applicator. Kybella or liposuction could provide you with the additional results you seek. A consultation with a surgeon who performs all the varied procedures discussed would be beneficial to assess your options.

Michael H. Gold, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the photo – it would be very helpful to see what the area looked like before as well.  I have not heard this occurring from CoolSculpting – so if things were done correctly, I would doubt that this is from the procedure.  I would have a consultation with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to see what is going on and what can be done to have it resolved.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

I think that the fat sack over your elbows is probably residual fat from the procedure. The lower most extent of the fat was not treated or couldn't be treated. I'd consider Kybella to this area. It is not redistribution of fat in my opinion.

Drew Varano, MD · Answer

It is most likely that what you are seeing is the fat that remained after coolsculpting. Coolsculpting treated "everywhere " but your elbow area and that is the residual fat that remains. Currently the applicators used to treat the arms are suboptimal . In may 2017, a newer updated arm applicator will be available called cool petite, this possibly may help get the residual fat

Can you have fat redistribute after CoolSculpting?I had it done on upper arms and now I have a fat sac over my elbows. (photo)

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