CoolSculpting is one of the hottest trends in fat-loss today. It’s touted as the non-invasive alternative to liposuction. Because it’s noninvasive, the procedure is low-risk and treatments fit easily into your busy schedule.
Each session takes only about an hour, and there is little downtime. You could even schedule a treatment during your lunch break and head right back to work.
This article will help you determine whether CoolSculpting will work for you. To start, we look at how CoolScultping works.
Does CoolSculpting Work?
CoolSculpting works. Even more so than it’s noninvasive nature and convenience, the number one reason for CoolSculpting’s popularity is its effectiveness. The technology is FDA-approved and is a proven fat removal procedure. With nearly 15 years of use among plastic surgeons, it has earned its trust and reputation.
The basic principles behind CoolSculpting are simple:
- CoolSculpting targets and cools the fat cells under the skin.
- The fat cells crystallize and die.
- The body naturally removes the dead cells.
- You end up slimmer, with a more sculpted appearance.
CoolSculpting results are impressive, but it is more effective for some people than others.
Am I A Good Candidate For CoolSculpting?
This procedure is a good option for almost everyone. But people who match the top criteria will see the most dramatic CoolSculpting results. Fortunately, many of these are factors you can influence through your own habits. Of course, some things, like medical conditions, are outside of your control.
Here are 7 considerations to determine whether you are a good candidate for CoolSculpting:
1. Diet & Exercise
The best CoolSculpting results are generally seen by people who have already begun their fat loss journey. Healthy living makes it easier for your body to remove crystallized fat cells from your body. It’s a two-sided benefit: CoolSculpting helps you see faster results from your diet/exercise plan, while your diet/exercise helps you see faster results from your CoolSculpting treatments.
If you aren’t already watching your diet and exercise, it’s not too late. The sooner you start the better, but even beginning after your treatment will help improve results.
2. Weight
Unsurprisingly, the less fat the procedure needs to remove, the better the results. Generally, we find that the best results occur with people who are within 20lb of their goal weight. This is similar to liposuction, in that is intended more to remove pockets of fat, rather than remove large quantities.
CoolSculpting can remove about 25% of fat cells in most parts of the body. The less fat there is in an area, the more dramatic the difference 25% makes.
3. Shape of the Target Area
Bulges and pockets of fat are the ideal targets for CoolSculpting. For example, love handles are an ideal target for the procedure. The target area fits easily between the devices cooling plates.
Areas of stubborn fat that are hard to remove with diet and exercise alone are exactly what CoolSculpting is designed for.
4. Target Location
Some locations are better options than others. Fortunately, CoolSculpting is effective for all the most common trouble areas. Here are the best target areas for the procedure:
- Abdomen
- Back
- Buttocks & under the buttocks
- Chest
- Chin
- Flank (love handles & muffin top)
- Thighs (inner or outer)
- Under the armpits
- Upper arms
5. Gender
CoolScuplting is effective for both men and women. For women, the most popular target locations are the thighs, arms, abdomen, and chin. For men, the most common CoolScultping targets are the torso, chin, and chest.
6. Medical Conditions
Although almost anyone is a candidate for CoolSculpting, there are certain medical conditions where you should avoid CoolSculpting. If you are experiencing any of the following, inform your plastic surgeon. They can advise whether CoolSculpting is appropriate, and how long you should wait before starting it if it is an option.
Pregnancy
If you are pregnant it is best to avoid CoolSculpting for the time being. This is also true if you are currently trying to get pregnant or still breastfeeding. You will eventually be able to get the procedure, but this is not the best time for it.
Conditions/Disorders with Sensitivity to Cold
CoolScuplting uses freezing to get its incredible results. Unfortunately, that makes it a poor choice for people who have conditions or disorders with sensitivity to cold. If you have any of the following, this may not be the best option for you:
- Cryoglobulinemia
- Cold agglutinin disease
- Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
- Raynaud syndrome
- Chilblains
Skin Conditions
Temporary swelling, sensitivity, or redness can occur with CoolSculpting treatments. This can exacerbate existing skin conditions. For people with a temporary issue such as a rash, you are likely still a good candidate for CoolSculpting once it clears up. However, ongoing skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and hives, it may not be the right option for you.
Nerve Conditions
Nerve conditions, particularly in the target area, may disqualify you from CoolSculpting. People with diabetic-neuropathy, for instance, generally should not get this treatment. The cold application may trigger issues with existing nerve conditions.
Injury or Hernia Near the Treatment Area
If you have an existing injury in the treatment area, it is best to wait until the injury heals before beginning treatment. As well, let the plastic surgeon know of any previous injuries to the area that may cause concern.
If you have a history of hernias in or near the treatment area, for example, this may not be the best treatment area.
Certain Allergies
Allergies to propylene glycol or isopropyl alcohol can be triggered, as these are used in the CoolSculpting treatment.
Chronic Pain
If you experience chronic pain, especially in the target area, it’s best to talk to a doctor before considering CoolSculpting.
7. Medications & Treatments
Certain medications and treatments are potentially problematic with CoolSculpting treatments. Generally, it’s best to avoid this procedure while taking any blood-thinning medication. Consult with your plastic surgeon to ensure you are a good candidate once you finish taking these meds.
As well, any active implanted devices, such as pacemakers, may disqualify you from this treatment. There is potential for interference with these devices. Ask your plastic surgeon to determine if CoolSculpting is appropriate.
Visit the Newmarket CoolSculpting Clinic
CoolSculpting is a great choice for most people who are looking to eliminate stubborn fat. Your plastic surgeon can help ensure this is the right treatment for you, and help you make the adjustments to get the best possible CoolSculpting results.
Book a consultation today at our Newmarket CoolScultping clinic!