CoolSculpting, sometimes referred to as cryolipolysis, is a non-invasive body contouring treatment proudly offered at Doctors MedSpa in Little Rock, AR. It was first approved by the FDA for the treatment of excess subcutaneous flank fat in 2010. Since then, it has been approved for many more uses, and it is now considered the gold standard in fat removal. Today, we’re taking a closer look at this safe, effective treatment, including how it works.
How Does CoolSculpting Work?
CoolSculpting can improve the appearance of your targeted areas significantly by freezing the fat cells to death. The device cools the subcutaneous fat cells to approximately 40 degrees. This destroys the fat cells, but it doesn’t harm any of your other tissues in the area. The surrounding tissues are water-based, and you don’t have to worry about them being damaged if they are not exposed to prolonged freezing or sub-freezing temperatures.
How Quickly Does This Treatment Work?
This treatment works incredibly quickly. Anywhere from 20 to 80% of the localized subcutaneous fat cells will be destroyed by the time your treatment session is complete. How long your session takes depends on several factors, including the number of areas you are targeting, the size of the areas being targeted, and how much excess fat you have. Typically, sessions take 35 to 60 minutes to complete.
However, you should not expect to see the final results of your treatment immediately after your first treatment session is complete. Anywhere from two to eight sessions may be necessary for you to achieve your desired aesthetic. Typically, sessions are spaced a couple of months apart. Additionally, it may take three months for your body to finish flushing out the fat cells destroyed during treatment. Therefore, it may be five or more months before your final results are realized.
What Can I Do To See My Final Results Faster?
You need to support your lymphatic system if you want to see your CoolSculpting results as quickly as possible. One of the most effective steps you can take to accomplish this is to stay hydrated. If you do not consume enough hydrating fluids, your lymphatic system will grow sluggish. If your urine is dark, try setting alarms on your phone to remind you to drink, and try to always have a water bottle, tea cup, or coffee mug on hand.
Another highly effective step you can take to speed up your ideal results is to get at least 2.5 hours of moderate exercise or 1.25 hours of vigorous exercise weekly.
What Should I Expect During My Treatment Session?
Before your treatment session begins, we will examine the areas targeted for treatment to verify that they are free from irritation. We will also confirm that you are not currently suffering from a condition that would make treatment unsafe for you. After that, we will apply a special gel pad to the first targeted area and place the applicator on the pad. Then, we will turn the device on.
Gradually, the device cools the treatment area to the appropriate temperature. For the first five to 10 minutes of treatment, you will feel the area getting colder. However, by the time the appropriate temperature is reached, your skin will be numb. At no point should you expect to feel any pain during your treatment. You may feel some gentle tugging due to the device’s suction mechanism. However, this won’t be uncomfortable.
Am I a Good Candidate for This Treatment?
You need to attend an initial consultation to find out if you are a good CoolSculpting treatment. Generally, if you are an adult with a normal or overweight body mass index and concerns about stubborn excess fat, there is a very good chance that you will qualify for this treatment. However, there are other factors that are taken into consideration besides age and BMI when determining who qualifies. For instance, you need to have realistic expectations about the results.
It is also very important that you feel confident that you can maintain a healthy lifestyle and reasonable diet once your course of treatments is complete. If you don’t do a decent job of maintaining your weight once your treatment is complete, one or more of your treated contours may need to be treated again in the future.
What Contraindications Should I Be Aware of?
There are a number of contraindications for this treatment. Some of the most common contraindications include pregnancy, and skin irritation at the planned treatment site. You will also be unsuitable for this treatment if you are currently breastfeeding. Moreover, you will not be considered a good CoolSculpting candidate if you suffer from a medical condition that makes you extremely sensitive to the cold.
Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today
CoolSculpting helps you sculpt your ideal contours by freezing your fat cells at roughly 40 degrees. Since your skin and muscle tissues are water-based, you don’t have to worry about them being damaged during treatment. If you think this safe, effective fat removal treatment sounds like a good fit for you, contact us now at Doctors MedSpa in Little Rock, AR to schedule your initial consultation.