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The Art of CoolSculpting

Posted April 05, 2011 in Injectables & Fillers, by Dr. Fiorillo

CoolSculpting is a relatively new procedure that uses controlled and precise cooling to freeze fat cells. This process is also known as Cryolipolysis. The principle for which it relies on is controlled cooling applied directly to the problem area so that it causes the death of the subcutaneous fatty tissue but does not damage the overlying tissues or top skin. This noninvasive surgical procedure is an alternative to the invasive and more risky liposuction surgical treatment. The term Cryolipolysis was derived from the use of cryogenics and lipolysis together to create a noninvasive procedure that uses controlled cooling to reduce localized fatty deposits and is used in CoolSculpting, 3D Lipo and Cryolipo.

CoolSculpting was created by Zeltiq and is now an FDA approved non-surgical fat reduction device. Research studies have reported an average of 25 to 30% fat loss per the treated area. However this mobile treatment does not work on obesity. It is more designed to target trouble spots like back fat, bra rolls, stomach rolls, and love handles.

Typical CoolSculpting sessions last about an hour and the costs range from approximately $600-$700 depending on the surgical specialist administering the procedure. The surgical specialist is charged by the manufacturer about $100 per session of treatment.

So how does CoolSculpting actually work and how is it administered?

During the procedure the surgical specialist gently pinches the fatty areas between the CoolSculpting devices arms. This applicator then freezes the fatty cells under the top layers of skin causing them to crystalize. The session can take 45 minutes to an hour to complete and does not require any type of localized anesthesia. In the first clinical trials of the use of Cryolipolysis, patients had a 25-30% reduction in the fat layer after two months. Ultrasound was used to measure the results. The lipolytic effect caused by the treatments is not instant but instead takes place within two to four months to see the results. The treatment is best and primarily applicable to only limited areas of fat bulges. Since the treatment is fairly new, it is not known how long the treatment lasts or if further treatments are necessary. One thing is known is that after such a procedure, changes must take place in the patients diet or lifestyle and include some form of exercise to maintain the achieved results. So with those factors in mind, it could solely depend on the individual.

As previously mentioned, this method of fat reduction has been approved by the FDA.

Are there any side effects from Cryolipolysis?

Because of the limited trial experience, side effects of this procedure are not well known at this time. However some common side effects of the treatment are local redness, bruising, and numbness of the skin. These are common side effects of the treatment and would be expected to subside. Numbness or sensitivity to the treated areas should disappear within one month of the treatment. In the clinical studies there was no damaging effect on the nerves and there were no detrimental effects. No long lasting side effects were encountered with this treatment.

Before choosing any kind of cosmetic surgery, every patient should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their surgeon or specialist, some procedures may or may not be right for you depending on your health and the procedure that you desire. Dr. Fiorillo of Mommy Makeover, who is located in New York and New Jersey is an expert in noninvasive procedures and is double board certified with many years of experience.

Contact Dr. Fiorillo at (845) 623-6141 for more information and to see if the CoolSculpting procedure is right for you.

Stock images of models are used throughout this website and should not be interpreted as actual patients of our practice. Individual results may vary.

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