Seeing Results, but Not Worth the Money or Pain - Fargo, ND

I had coolsculpting done about 30 days ago. There were 6 applications total: 4 lower abs, 2 upper abs. I am not sure if I needed that many treatments; I went with the recommendation anyway. I have always been in fairly decent physical shape. I had a baby in November 2014 and had coolsculpting in January 2016. I gave myself a year to get back into shape, but it was harder than I thought, so I elected to get the procedure done.

The Consultation: I was not 100% sure if I wanted the procedure done, but it was on my mind for a long time and I just went with it. I took the entire process rather nonchalantly. In retrospect, that’s not like me at all, but I let go of reservations and did it.

The Application: I had the procedure done over a two day period: 4 lower on a Monday, 2 upper on a Thursday. All done by different people, which I was not OK with, but allowed it. I never saw a doctor, EVER! All were trained personnel. All of the applications were uncomfortable. The discomfort never subsided, as many people stated. The pain got worse if I coughed, laughed, or sneezed. During the last application there was confusion because I thought a technician was preparing to place the device on the same area that a previous technician just did (another problem not having the same person apply the treatment).

Immediately following Treatment: On both occasions, I felt numb and sore. My clinic used a device called the Zimmer or Z-Wave. I was told it assists in the coolsculpting process. It was an extremely painful electrode handheld wand that massaged the treated areas; this lasted for 3 minutes on each site. I got dressed and went home.

Over the period of 3 to 17 days, I was in tremendous pain. My tummy was swollen, I felt sharp stabbing pains, I was numb and tender at the same time. I couldn’t sleep on my tummy or let my 14 month old roughhouse with me like we normally do. I knew I made a mistake electing to get the treatment. I couldn’t undue what was done, but I regretted the treatment because of the pain that followed. I was determined to not let that stop me. I took ibuprofen and worked out normally at the local gym. I was somewhat uncomfortable in workout clothes because I felt so jiggly and fluffed up from the procedure. I was contacted once by the performing office and I informed them of my discomfort. I was told that it would subside and to apply a compression garment if I felt the need.

Almost 21 days later and the pain finally started to dissipate. Here I am 30 days later and I see a significant difference, but I know it’s not all coolsculpting. My diet is a lot cleaner and I work out 5, sometimes 6 days a week. I significantly cut back on alcoholic drinks, although I still have an occasional 2-glass limit on red wine or a light beer with dinner. A few side notes though, I noticed an increase in foul-smelling flatulence as well as an increased urge to defecate. Almost 90% of the time I go to the restroom to urinate, I also feel the need to have a bowel movement. Maybe that’s TMI, sorry guys.

Overall, at this point, I do NOT think coolsculpting was worth the $3500+ spent and the associated pain was even more of a reason to regret it. However, I am seeing results and will post pictures.

I will try my best to post updates. I have a 45-day follow-up in about 2 ½ weeks. Will definitely let you know how that goes.