Does CoolSculpting require licensed doctors to be performed? (Photo)

Question

Does cool sculpting required licensed doctors to perform? A lot is spa places doing the treatment without license ?

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

The CoolSculpting treatment does not need to be performed by a physician. It is a class 2 device so it can be used by anyone certified in CoolSculpting. However, I would make sure that there is a physician on board who will perform your good faith exam and makes sure you are medically cleared for the treatment.

My best,

Sheila Nazarian, MD, MMM

Beverly Hills, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

My best,

Sheila Nazarian, MD, MMM

Beverly Hills, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Jerome H. Liu, MD · Answer

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that does not require a physician for it to be performed. The CoolSculpting providers are certified in the procedure and have attended a comprehensive, training program offered by the manufacturer, Zeltiq. Patients interested in CoolSculpting should seek an office with certified staff supervised by a board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure they are in safe hands. Good luck in your research!

Rebecca Fitzgerald, MD · Answer

CoolScultpting is one of a handful of procedures that does not require a doctor or even a nurse to treat. That said, it's a good idea to make sure the technician overseeing your treatment has adequate training. There are certain conditions that your make CoolSculpting inadvisable.The machine itself controls temperatures and timing, so there is a built in safety factor. If you've had a hernia, certain surgeries, or have certain medical conditions, you need to be more careful in choosing this or any procedure that could disrupt healing or negatively impact your skin health.

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

There are quite a few medical spas that now have CoolSculpting. For the best result, i would go under the care of a licenced physician who is Certified in CoolSculpting or whose employee have been certified.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. This depends in the area you live in. If you would like more specific information you can contact Zeltiq and they will be able to help you. Regards,

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

coolsculpting requires a specialist but doesn't have to be performed by a physician. I suggest though you only go to a body contouring expert for these treatments to ensure no complications.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Vaishali B. Doolabh, MD, FACS · Answer

I have added a link that might be helpful...Hi.  CoolSculpting does not have to be performed by a physician, but the specialist should have a thorough understanding of body contouring principles.  The manufacturer does provide advanced training (known as CoolSculpting University) and certifies the specialist to help assure good outcomes.  If you have any problems with your treatment, a place that is overseen by a licensed doctor will be a benefit. Good luck!

Robert Heck, MD, FACS · Answer

Great question. In my practice our certified nurses are RN's we trust, we have trained and have worked for us many years. Because we have a group practice we always have a physician in the office in case a client needs a physician consultation (i.e. not a candidate for cool sculpting). In short, we take cool sculpting seriously and although those spa like settings most likely have a medical director you are surely not going to get the same level of care in my opinion then if you would go to the physician office that has cool sculpting. I think your instincts are right, good for you to research before making a location choice!

Jeffrey M. Hartog, DMD, MD · Answer

The CoolSculpting treatment does not need to be performed by a physician.  It is a class 2 device so it can be used by anyone certified in CoolSculpting.  At most offices, Certified Technicians do the whole treatment.  That being said, I would recommend going to a board certified plastic surgeon's office to make sure you are seeing someone who is better trained in cosmetic procedures and who can tell you if this is the best treatment for you.  A lot of spas who offer CoolSculpting do not have other fat reduction treatments, so they may not be the most reliable to tell you what your best options are.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

Coolsculpting is unfortunately performed by too many centers that are either not certified nor under the proper supervision of a physician. To understand your options and to receive the best results, consult with a physician who directs a Certified Coolsculpting Center.