Is it helpful to massage (at home) the CoolSculpted areas after the treatment? Will it be harmful, if done? (Photo)

Question

I feel like the areas are still slightly numb and I feel some tiny lumps when I rub the areas.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, lymphatic massage or gentle massage can help reduce swelling after Coolsculpting. For best results with Coolsculpting, I recommend a combination approach. I recommend adding radiofrequency treatments like Vanquish, Venus Legacy, Exilis Ultra for skin tightening and with Z wave/Cellutone for skin smoothing. Vaser with ThermiRF is an alternative. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

Most people do develop some temporary numbness after CoolSculpting and this resolves over the course of several weeks.  Massage is not needed for this issue.  In general, massaging at home will not be harmful but it is probably not beneficial.  It is important that the area is massaged immediately after the applicator is removed though.  I have not had patients inform me of feeling any tiny lumps after treatment, but I would not be too concerned about this as it should resolve over more time.

Edward Stokes, MD · Answer

Hi thedallasmama, thank you for your question.  Directly following the CoolSculpting procedure, the treated areas are massaged to break up the frozen crystals and cause further damage to the treated fat cells.  This has been clinically proven to increase the efficacy of the treatment by up to 68%. Post treatment massage has not been proven to be helpful.  It most likely will not cause any harm, but will not produce better or faster results either. It is perfectly normal for the treated areas to feel numb and to be swollen.  We generally recommend that our patients wear compression garments and alternate with heat and ice post treatment, for greater comfort. Good luck with you CoolSculpting journey.

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

It is not unusual to feel lumps and numbness after a coolsculpting procedure.The skin is massaged immediately after the procedure to break up the ice crystals in the fat cells and to start the process of fat elimination.  There really is no benefit to massaging the area after this is done as it adds nothing to the results.There is no harm in doing this but it may cause some increased discomfort.  The lumps probably represent areas of inflammation which is expected after this procedure.  If you are concerned call your provider and they can guide you.

Alain Michon, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and picture. There is no need to massage the area at home after your Coolsculpting treatments. It is not harmful, but it may cause discomfort, swelling or bruising if not done by an expert. It is also normal to feel slight numbness after the procedure. I hope this help. All the best, Dr. Michon

Is it helpful to massage (at home) the CoolSculpted areas after the treatment? Will it be harmful, if done? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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