Treatment Provider

Sarah Mess, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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After losing about 30 pounds over a year, I still...

After losing about 30 pounds over a year, I still had some residual belly fat that I just couldn't get rid of. I did a lot of research and determined that liposuction and/or a tummy tuck were too invasive and expensive for me. I had read about Coolsculpting and was able to attend an Open House and consultation with Dr. Mess where she informed me I was a prime candidate for the procedure. It was decided that I would need the large applicator on my lower abdomen and the small applicator on my upper abdomen. The cost of the procedure and payment options were also disclosed at this time.

During the Open House the entire process was explained and a live demonstration on a patient was given. Both Dr. Mess' staff and the patient were available to answer any and all questions. The procedure seemed straight forward and it was made clear that this procedure was not for everyone. If the fat is too deep the procedure will not be as successful. It was also explained that there is a minor amount of discomfort the first 5-7 minutes then you just sit back and relax until it is over, which is about an hour per application. After the procedure you can immediately go back to your daily life with only minimal soreness and some residual numbing of the area that goes away over a 4-6 week period.

My procedure went exactly as planned, no surprises. It's a strange sensation at first, but the expectations discussed during the Open House held true. Renee was performing my procedure and was extremely knowledgeable and efficient. She also had an awesome bedside manner that allowed me to relax throughout both applications.

Just as described, I had some very minor soreness the first few days following the procedure along with a tingly, numbing sensation in the areas where the applicators were applied for approximately 5 weeks, but that gradually went away. There wasn't any bruising and nothing that stopped me from going about my daily activities. It takes about three months to completely see the final results of the procedure.

My outcome has been fantastic. Even though I had lost weight prior to the procedure, I needed this last finishing touch to complete my goal. Even in my 40s, and after having two kids I feel confident and comfortable enough to wear a bikini again. I hadn't done that in 20 years. I constantly have people tell me how good I look.

The procedure and recovery was relatively pain free with no significant time out of my schedule or hectic life. I couldn't have asked for a better experience or result. I'm so glad I did it.

Provider Review

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
9821 Broken Land Pkwy., Columbia, Maryland
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Overall rating
Doctor's bedside manner
Answered my questions
After care follow-up
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Staff professionalism & courtesy
Payment process
Wait times

I cannot find a single negative thing to say about the entire experience. For the money it was well worth it. The entire staff was very professional, yet friendly and easy to deal with. They were honest and up front about what to expect for the procedure, they set a price and stuck to it, and didn't once try to persuade me to buy more services then I needed or wanted.