Is it normal to get these red marks after zeltiq coolsculpting? (Photos)

Question

Is it normal to be this red after 24 hrs from zeltiq coolsculpting? This is on my love handle and upper abdomen. I did it on my lower abdomen but there's no redness or bruises there. The machine used was a legit zeltiq machine, and the gel pad was applied beforehand. It doesn't hurt or sting, only when I press it. Are these just gigantic hicky marks? Or would they be burns or something bad?

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

CoolSculpting can cause some bruising and tiny inflamed or broken capillaries, also call petechiae. If you take omega fatty acids (fish oil), aspirin, blood thinners or have anemia you can more prone to bruising or petechiae. It is also normal to be mildly sore, tender to touch, and some people can even be a little itchy. These are all normal/expected reactions and usually resolve within a few weeks. If the areas stay that way, become worse, or are accompanied by a fever you should contact your doctor or treatment provider.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It is possible to get discoloration after a CoolSculpting treatment, but it does not always occur.  The discoloration can be reddish or like a bruise.  The color can last a few days or sometimes a bit longer but it should fade away completely with time.  It is not anything bad or worrisome.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are most probably experiencing bruising or petechiae (broken blood vessels) and will resolve in a few days to a few weeks. You may use Arnica to help speed healing process. Best of Luck!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are most probably experiencing bruising or petechiae (broken blood vessels) and will resolve in a few days to a few weeks. You may use Arnica to help speed healing process. Best of Luck!

Stephanie Martin, MD · Answer

Everyone responds differently to Coolsculpting in general and they respond differently in different areas.  These are petechiae from the suction.  I had this myself when I had my lower abdomen done.  They will resolve over the next few days to weeks.

Is it normal to get these red marks after zeltiq coolsculpting? (Photos)

Answers (5)