Is Any Damage Done to the Skin During the Fat Freezing Process?

CoolSculpting by Zeltiq uses a patented process called cryolipolysis(TM) to lower the temperature of fat cells sufficiently to freeze them, triggering apoptosis (cell death). However, the temperature is not sufficiently low to freeze water, skin, or other tissue. The skin may be numbed from the cooling process and will probably redden slightly for a short time, but the effect is not permanent. There is a gel pad placed between the skin and the application to further protect the skin. In some delicate areas, an anti-freeze wipe is also rubbed on the skin.  Don’t worry, you won’t get frostbite from CoolSculpting! Any side effects, such as redness, soreness, bruising, or tingling, usually resolve within hours to days. Please see a board-certified dermatologist to find out how CoolSculpting can help you.

Coolsculpting is an excellent form of non-invasive  fat reduction for
the right patient. Some applicators take 1 or 2 hours but the new advantage
applicators take only 35 minutes and have significantly less risk for delayed
onset pain (especially in the abdomen). Results are seen at 2 months and
typically 1-3 treatments will be necessary on each area to achieve ideal
results. The number of treatments depends on the amount of fat there and the
patient's goals.  There is not downtime and the results can be impressive
in the right patient.  We also use the Zimmer Z-wave for improved patient
comfort and added results. The best candidates are those who are in pretty
good shape with areas of stubborn fat that won't go away no matter what. The skin is well protected during the treatment.

My best,

Sheila Nazarian, MD, MMM

Beverly Hills, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Your skin stays protected by a gel pad that is placed between your skin and the machine. The temperature that the machine cools down to only affects the fat cells, which in turn keeps the skin from getting frost bite.

                                                                                                   All the best "Dr. Joe" Gryskiewicz

The scientists of Zeltiq worked out the temperature sensitivities and determined at what temperature the fat cells would perish before the epdiermal cells. It is a selective process and the skin is preserved.

The coolsculpting device requires that gel pads are placed on the skin to protect it during the procedure. The skin does not freeze because it is protected.