Is severe bruising normal with CoolSculpting one day after? (photos)

Question

I know bruising is normal after getting coolsculpting done, but my upper abdomen is swelling severely bruised- much more so than my lower abdomen. Is this expected? The photos are from the day after.

Douglas Wu, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concern and photos. Bruising is a common side effect after CoolSculpting, particularly when the older applicators are used. While your bruising is extensive, I would guess it will subside within two or three weeks. You may opt to work with a different provider for your next treatment who uses the newer applicators, since there is less bruising associated with them. Make sure your provider is a board-certified dermatologist who is also an expert in CoolSculpting to ensure an optimal outcome.

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

Bruising is a common side effect after a CoolSculpting treatment, but will subside in about 10-14 days.  You can help the bruising by gently massaging the area.  You can also use warm, moist compresses to help.  Bruising after CoolSculpting is usually seen with the older applicators.  I recommend scheduling a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist who is an expert in body contouring for a formal assessment.  In my practice, we use CoolSculpting in combination with other treatment devices such as Vanquish, ThermiTight, and even tumescent liposculpture to customize treatment plans for each of our patients.

Monica Boen, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. Bruising is a common side effect after CoolSculpting, particularly when the older applicators are used. You would know because your treatment would have taken a full hour to complete. Newer applicators require 35-minute treatments and result in substantially less bruising. I would guess this side effect will subside in a couple of weeks. However, if you still have concerns, I encourage you to schedule a follow-up appointment with your provider for an in-person assessment and recommendations on what you can do to support your recovery process.

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

While bruising can happen after CoolSculpting, it was more common with the older applicators that used a lot of suction. We have barely seen any bruising since switching to the newer applicators a few years ago. Bruising can also be seen with the imitation Chinese knock off devices. Are you sure you were treated with an actual CoolSculpting device? Based on your pictures, the applicator placement does not look ideal. Hopefully you will get results. Make sure you are under the care of an experienced physician. Best wishes.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It is possible to develop bruising after CoolSculpting, but I find bruising is fairly uncommon when using the newer applicators as opposed to the older ones.  I am not certain which applicator was used for your treatment.  Bruising after CoolSculpting normally will completely resolve over time, but it could take a week or two.  Be sure to follow up with the physician who treated you so that your progress can be monitored.

Scott D. Holley, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there and thank you for your question. Bruising is a common side effect of CoolSculpting and usually resolves within 10-14 days. You do appear to be experiencing more bruising than what I have typically seen with CoolSculpting. I would discuss your concerns with your provider since they may want to make adjustments at your next treatment as well as monitor your recovery. Good luck!

Tonya Boudreaux, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. While bruising is a normal side effect of CoolSculpting, you appear to be experiencing a larger amount than is typical. By using the newer applicators and following all safety guidelines, your physician should have been able to keep bruising to a minimum or avoid it altogether. Schedule a follow-up appointment with your care provider to have your bruising evaluated and check for any potential complications. Make sure that your care provider is CoolSculpting certified to ensure the utmost safety. Best wishes to you for a quick recovery!

Cavendish Clinic - Fitzrovia · Answer

Hello and Thank You for your question. Bruising can occur following on from CoolSculpting. Looking at your picture, I would contact and return to your practitioner as it is fairly substantial. They will examine you and monitor your recovery. Best wishes for a speedy heal. The Cavendish Team

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

Bruising can occur after coolsculpting but is less common with the newer applicators that use less suction.  In the 10+ years that I have been doing coolsulpting I have never seen bruising to this degree.-this is not to say that it cannot occur.  It is difficult to tell from your photos but one of my concerns would be that the skin was not prepped adequately and this may be a result of  too much contact cooling of the skin. The placement of the applicators might need to be adjusted at your next session.  Please discuss your concerns with your provider.

Jeffrey M. Hartog, DMD, MD · Answer

Yes, bruising is a possible side effect from CoolSculpting.  It mainly occurs from the suction of the applicators.  Check with your CoolSculpting provider about any concerns of side effects.