CoolSculpting® Frequently Asked Questions

What areas can be treated?

Common areas that have been successfully treated worldwide using CoolSculpting include: the muffin top, back fat, love handles and post–pregnancy pooch. In the U.S., CoolSculpting’s FDA clearance was issued for data submitted for the love handles/flank area.

What will the results be?

CoolSculpting by ZELTIQ™ can reduce the fat layer by 20%. If the patient's treatment plan calls for a second procedure, an additional 20% reduction can be experienced. Final losses may be more or less, depending on the patient.

What happens during the procedure?

The patient and doctor first select the area(s) to be treated. For instance, if the patient’s goal is to reduce their love handles, the doctor will position the system on the patient’s side. The device then draws the bulge up between two cooling panels. The sensation is a firm tug and pull – enough of a pull to ensure the selected tissue will be cooled most efficiently.

What does it feel like?

As the panels go to work in the first few minutes, the patient feels a sensation of intense cold. This soon dissipates in about 10 minutes, many patients compare it to an ice bucket treatment after a sports injury like when you sprain an ankle. The patient is seated comfortably or lying down during the one to two hour procedure. Many people spend this time reading, working on their laptop, or simply relaxing.

Can I return to normal activities after the procedure?

Yes. The CoolSculpting procedure is completely non-invasive, so the patient can return to normal activities immediately. Patients may experience redness, minor bruising, tingling, or numbness in the treated area, but this is temporary.

What will the treated area(s) feel like in the days/weeks following the treatment?

This varies for every individual. The majority of our staff has been treated and the experience has varied. Most experienced some pain/discomfort in the treated area beginning from days 2-3 post treatment for approximately 1-2 weeks post treatment. There have been reports from other providers that the pain can be significant and persist for up to Some numbness was felt in the treated area

When will I see results?

Patients may start to see changes as quickly as three weeks after their treatment, and will experience the most dramatic results after two months. But their body will still be flushing fat cells at that time, and will continue doing so for up to four months.

Are the results permanent?

During the CoolSculpting procedure, the treated fat cells are eliminated. As long as the patient maintains his or her weight with their normal diet and exercise, long-term results should remain stable.

Is CoolSculpting from Zeltiq like Zerona Cold Laser Fat Reduction?

No! These two procedures are completely different. After careful evaluation and review of all information available and speaking with other providers, we chose CoolSculpting from Zeltiq. Take a look at reviews for both on realself.com where patients share their results. 

How do I decide what procedure to choose?

As with all medical and aesthetic procedures, do your research, ask all of your questions, and make an informed decision that's right for you.