CoolSculpting

No matter how healthy we eat or how much we exercise, there’s always that one stubborn area of fat or bulge that just won’t go away, leaving us self-conscious despite our efforts toward overall wellness. Liposuction used to be the only way to remove unwanted fat; however, modern technology now offers cryolipolysis treatments like CoolSculpting, which eliminate excess fat without surgery. CoolSculpting is a non-invasive, nonsurgical fat-reduction procedure FDA-approved to permanently target and eliminate stubborn fat bulges from various body areas. Common spots treated with CoolSculpting include the double chin, abdomen, love handles, inner and outer thighs, lower thighs, back and bra fat, banana roll, and upper arms. The treatment uses cryolipolysis—a process that freezes and destroys fat cells—leading to up to a 25% reduction in unwanted fat in the treated area during a single session. It is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed at Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology practice.

CoolSculpting is an effective way to reduce stubborn fat without any downtime and can greatly enhance your body’s shape. Although it is not a weight-loss device, it’s a game-changer for those with fat bulges that don’t respond to a healthy diet and lifestyle. Ideal candidates are at or near their target weight. During this fat-freezing treatment, specialized applicators deliver cold temperatures to the targeted area, destroying fat cells while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. The fat cells eliminated by CoolSculpting are gradually absorbed and expelled through the body’s natural metabolic process. The final results, visible after about four months, are not only temporary but permanent, giving you the confidence of a slimmer, more contoured body.

CoolSculpting is most effective when you consult with an experienced healthcare professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City. Dr. Green was one of the first providers in NYC to offer CoolSculpting for nonsurgical fat reduction and has used it for over 14 years to achieve optimal body contouring results. An internationally recognized, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green has more than 25 years of experience in delivering advanced non-invasive cosmetic procedures and skin care, including CoolSculpting. She is often recognized by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times as one of New York’s top physicians for her dedication to her patients and expertise. If you want additional information about CoolSculpting, schedule a body-sculpting consultation with Dr. Green, who will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns and aesthetic goals.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting has revolutionized cosmetic dermatology as a minimally invasive option. This FDA-approved nonsurgical fat-reduction method removes stubborn fat from specific areas with minimal downtime and discomfort. CoolSculpting is a non-invasive treatment that reduces fat by freezing fat cells in targeted regions through cryolipolysis. It effectively addresses common trouble spots such as love handles, double chin, upper arms, abdomen, and inner and outer thighs, reducing fat bulges and shaping the body. Importantly, CoolSculpting is not a weight-loss procedure; rather, it targets fat that does not respond to diet or exercise. Multiple applicators, available in various shapes and sizes, ensure a perfect fit for the targeted area. Most of these applicators use vacuum technology to target fat cells and deliver controlled cooling directly. Since fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than skin and surrounding tissue, CoolSculpting selectively targets only the fat cells. This treatment can permanently reduce up to 25% of fat in the treated area, helping contour your body and meet your aesthetic goals. It is a simple procedure with no downtime, allowing patients to resume daily activities immediately. Dr. Michele Green was among the first cosmetic dermatologists in NYC to adopt CoolSculpting into her boutique practice over twelve years ago, providing her patients with the contoured appearance they desire.

How does CoolSculpting work?

There are two main types of fat in the body: visceral fat and subcutaneous fat. Visceral fat is the fat layer located beneath the skin, while the visceral fat stored deeper around internal organs acts as a protective barrier. Subcutaneous fat is the pinchable, more stubborn fat, whereas visceral fat is less visible but plays a vital role in protecting organs. Although visceral fat is necessary, excess amounts can be harmful because it is metabolically active and releases substances that may lead to inflammation and insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems. To effectively reduce visceral fat, a combination of diet and exercise is essential.

The CoolSculpting fat-freezing procedure targets persistent subcutaneous fat that resists dieting and exercising. It is an FDA-approved cosmetic treatment designed for fat reduction and body contouring. The process uses cryolipolysis, a patented cooling technology that permanently destroys up to 25% of unwanted fat cells in the treated area. Cold is applied with specially designed CoolSculpting applicators, damaging fat cells while sparing surrounding tissues. This method works because fat cells freeze at higher temperatures than nearby tissue. The damage causes an inflammatory response, leading to fat cell destruction and removal by macrophages over two to three months. Full results usually appear about 90 days after treatment, though some initial improvements may be visible as early as 45 days.

Who is a good candidate for CoolSculpting treatment?

A suitable candidate for CoolSculpting treatment is an adult of any gender who is at least 18 years old, close to their ideal weight, and battling stubborn fat areas that don’t respond to diet and exercise. Candidates should also be in good physical and mental health and have realistic expectations about their results. CoolSculpting is not a weight-loss procedure; ideally, candidates should be within twenty pounds of their goal weight. Additionally, CoolSculpting should not be performed on pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. During your consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will physically evaluate the treatment area to see if you are a good candidate for this procedure, and you will receive the CoolSculpting applicators that will help achieve optimal body contouring results. A consultation with Dr. Green also provides the opportunity to explore other options to meet your aesthetic goals.

What is the process for the CoolSculpting body contouring?

The first step in the CoolSculpting procedure is to consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC. During this initial consultation, Dr. Green reviews your medical history, examines the fat bulges to identify treatment areas, and chooses the most suitable applicators for your body contouring needs. The type and number of recommended applicators are discussed, and a treatment appointment is scheduled.

On the day of your CoolSculpting session, pretreatment photos will be taken to track your progress. The skin will then be cleaned before applying the gel pad and applicator to the targeted area. The duration of your CoolSculpting session depends on the size and number of treatment areas. Longer sessions can be split over several days or scheduled for one day.

During the first 5 to 10 minutes of treatment, it’s common to experience tugging, pulling, pinching, or intense cold in the treatment area. The cold temperature effectively numbs the targeted area, making the rest of the CoolSculpting procedure quite comfortable. Depending on the applicator used, treatment usually lasts 35-75 minutes. During the procedure, you can read, listen to music, or take a nap. While everything necessary will be provided, feel free to bring additional comforts from home, such as movies, pillows, or reading material. Once the applicator is removed, the trained healthcare professional performing your CoolSculpting will give a two-minute massage to help further break down the treated fat cells. No downtime is required because this fat-freezing process is completely non-invasive. This allows you to return to your normal activities immediately afterward.

Results from a CoolSculpting treatment usually become visible after about 90 days, with patients achieving up to a 25% reduction in fat cells in the treated area. Dr. Green frequently invites her patients to return for a follow-up at this time to take after photos and assess whether additional treatment is needed. The fat reduction is permanent, provided no additional weight is gained afterward. If a second CoolSculpting session is necessary for optimal results, it is advised to schedule it 1-4 months after the initial treatment.

Before & After Treatment in neck area with CoolMini After one treatment (4 months)

Areas for CoolSculpting treatment

The arms

CoolSculpting effectively reduces fat on the upper arms. The CoolFit attachment easily targets fat in this area. Patients typically need at least one applicator per side, with treatment lasting about 75 minutes for both sides. After the procedure, patients can resume their daily activities immediately and usually see results within 2 to 3 months. Many people with unwanted fat in the upper arms also experience skin laxity. Loose skin combined with stubborn fat can cause self-consciousness for many. To achieve firmer, leaner upper arms, many of Dr. Green’s patients use both CoolSculpting and Thermage as part of their body contouring plans. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to boost collagen production in the skin. As collagen levels increase, the skin tightens and firms, resulting in smoother skin in the treated area. Thermage offers long-lasting results, with many patients enjoying tighter skin for up to two years. To maintain these results, patients often schedule yearly maintenance sessions.

Bra fat

Stubborn fat around the bra area often gathers under the arms, making people self-conscious when wearing a bra or a fitted T-shirt. CoolSculpting treatment removes these fat pockets without any downtime. Unwanted fat in the bra area is one of the most popular CoolSculpting treatments at Dr. Green’s dermatology office in New York. Whether caused by genetics, hormones, metabolism, or lack of exercise, CoolSculpting effectively targets the stubborn fat cells in this region. Dr. Green may use the CoolMini, CoolPetite, or CoolAdvantage applicator to treat bra and back fat. An in-person CoolSculpting consultation is necessary to determine which applicator best meets your fat-reduction needs. In addition to CoolSculpting, when Dr. Green examines the area, she may suggest Kybella as an effective treatment option to be used alongside CoolSculpting.

Inner and Outer Thighs

CoolSculpting is effective on various body areas, including the inner and outer thighs. The CoolFit and CoolSmooth applicators are designed to treat these areas without any downtime. The CoolFit applicator for the inner thighs requires 35 minutes per side, while the CoolSmooth applicator for the outer thighs takes 75 minutes per side. If you have a larger fat bump on either the inner or outer thighs, Dr. Green recommends repeating the CoolSculpting session in one month for the best results.

Submental (chin fat)

CoolSculpting effectively targets stubborn fat in the submental area, also known as the double chin. Since a double chin is often genetic, it can be difficult to eliminate through exercise and a healthy diet. Dr. Green uses the CoolMini applicator to treat the double chin, which is ideal for smaller areas. With two 45-minute CoolSculpting sessions, up to 40% of the submental fat can be reduced. Dr. Green frequently combines CoolSculpting with Kybella to address submental fat. After the fat is reduced with CoolSculpting, she administers Kybella injections to remove any remaining fat, helping patients achieve the contoured jawline they want.

Stomach fat

CoolSculpting is FDA-approved for use on the abdomen to freeze stubborn fat pockets and assist with full-body contouring. When applied to the stomach, CoolSculpting can decrease fat bulges by up to 25% per session. Dr. Green often uses CoolAdvantage Plus to treat a muffin top or CoolCore to shape a “diamond” along the abdomen. Some patients may also benefit from CoolSmooth for more diffuse fat across the area. Treatment times will vary based on the number and type of applicators recommended for each patient.

CoolSculpting can also be used for

• Flanks (love handles)
• Buttock (banana roll)
• Male breast tissue (gynecomastia)

CoolSculpting patient, lower abdomen, 10 months post treatment

The Main CoolSculpting Applicators:

Each CoolSculpting applicator is specially designed for fat removal in different body areas. Some are larger and include suction, while others are smooth and lack suction. The office of Dr. Michele Green has the latest CoolSculpting applicators, including:

CoolMini™

The CoolMini is a compact, innovative device designed to match the size, shape, and curves needed to treat small fat pockets in areas like the submental region, above the knee, and the bra line. With a treatment time of just 45 minutes, the CoolMini provides a quick solution for stubborn fat deposits. Even with a healthy diet and regular exercise, a double chin can be caused by genetics and may be difficult to eliminate. For best results, one to two CoolMini sessions might be required. In cases where a small amount of fat remains in the submental area several months after treatment, Kybella injections can help further reduce the fat and enhance the jawline’s appearance.

CoolAdvantage™

The CoolAdvantage applicator offers a more efficient fat-reduction method, completing treatments in 35 minutes instead of an hour. It is one of the most versatile applicators, featuring three types: CoolFit, CoolCurve, and CoolCore. The CoolAdvantage can be enhanced with one of three attachment heads to target fat cells more effectively. It covers a larger surface area at a lower temperature, enabling faster treatments. This applicator is suitable for various body areas, including but not limited to the abdomen, flanks, love handles, waist, hips, banana roll, upper arms, and inner thighs—making it a comprehensive fat reduction solution.

CoolFit™

The CoolFit applicator targets the inner thighs and upper arms. Each area requires 35 minutes of treatment. Patients often appreciate the completely painless CoolFit procedure, which involves no downtime or recovery. After four months, you’ll see the full cosmetic results of your treatment. For those with larger fat deposits in the upper arms or inner thighs, healthcare providers may recommend a follow-up CoolSculpting session after 1 month for optimal results.

CoolCore™

The CoolCore targets the flanks and love handles. This curved applicator takes 35 minutes per area. Many patients receive CoolSculpting on both flanks and the abdomen during a single session. The CoolCore applicator is often used in a “diamond-shaped” pattern to treat multiple fat bulges in the abdominal area. It can also be used to reduce excess fat in the bra area, helping improve body contours.

CoolCurve™

Although similar in function to the CoolCore, the CoolCurve applicator has a larger curve designed to target love handles or flanks effectively. Each treatment lasts about 35 minutes, making it a good choice for those aiming for a more defined “hourglass” shape.

CoolAdvantage Plus™

The CoolAdvantage Plus applicator takes about 45 minutes and primarily targets a large abdominal area. It is larger than the CoolAdvantage, making it ideal for treating bigger fat pockets on the abdomen. Many patients need two CoolSculpting sessions to address a large fat pocket in the lower abdomen. Repeating CoolSculpting in the same area is possible one month after the first treatment.

CoolSmooth™

The CoolSmooth™ is a distinctive applicator made for treating the outer thighs and abdomen. Each thigh takes 75 minutes, and the CoolSmooth applicator doesn’t use suction. For best results, larger treatment areas with more noticeable fat bulges often require two CoolSculpting sessions.

CoolPetite™

The CoolPetite treatment is a specialized option that takes about 35 minutes. It is specifically designed to target small areas where the standard CoolAdvantage applicator cannot adequately fit. Ideal for precise problem areas such as back fat, flanks, abdomen, inner knees, and small banana rolls, the CoolPetite delivers careful fat-reduction solutions for those looking to refine smaller, specific body contours.

CoolSculpting patient, lower abdomen, 10 months post-treatment

What are the side effects of CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is a safe and effective treatment that reduces excess fat at the treatment site through a process called cryolipolysis. Most side effects of CoolSculpting are mild and typically resolve on their own within 5-10 days. These side effects include numbness, swelling, firmness, tingling, redness, bruising, stinging, and soreness. Immediately after the treatment, patients may feel some discomfort as the skin is “thawed,” but this usually subsides within a few hours. Patients with a history of cold agglutinin disease or cryoglobulinemia should avoid CoolSculpting. In very rare cases, there is a risk of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), a condition where fat tissue unexpectedly grows in the treatment area after the procedure. PAH gained public attention when model Linda Evangelista experienced the condition and recently settled her case against CoolSculpting. Although the exact cause of PAH isn’t fully understood, fewer than 1% of patients who undergo CoolSculpting experience paradoxical adipose hyperplasia.

Is CoolSculpting FDA-approved?

Yes! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved CoolSculpting in 2010 to target fat bulges on the flanks (love handles), as detailed on CoolSculpting.com. In 2012, the FDA approved CoolSculpting for use on the abdomen. ZELTIQ Aesthetics, acquired by Allergan, has since introduced newer applicators designed for other body areas. Currently, the FDA has approved CoolSculpting for nine body regions, including under the double chin, upper arms, back fat, bra fat, love handles, abdomen, thighs (inner, outer, and distal), and under the buttocks (banana roll). This FDA approval shows that CoolSculpting has undergone thorough testing and clinical studies, confirming its effectiveness and safety.

How long does it take to see CoolSculpting results?

The results of CoolSculpting typically become visible after 90 days from the initial treatment. While the treatment starts immediately as the CoolSculpting applicator begins freezing fat cells, it takes your body a few months to naturally eliminate these dead cells via your lymphatic system. Patients may notice a reduction in fat as early as six to eight weeks after the procedure, with the most noticeable results often appearing between two and three months. However, your body will continue to break down fat cells for up to six months following the treatment. Dr. Green generally recommends a follow-up visit around three months later to evaluate the area and determine whether another session is necessary to achieve your desired look.

Is CoolSculpting legit?

Yes, CoolSculpting is a non-invasive treatment that uses a process called cryolipolysis. This innovative technique targets and effectively destroys stubborn fat cells by exposing them to controlled cooling temperatures. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these damaged fat cells, leading to a noticeable reduction of localized fat in the treated areas. CoolSculpting permanently reduces up to 25% of unwanted fat cells in a single session. Repeating the treatment on the same area can result in a 40% decrease in fat cell count. As a nonsurgical fat reduction method, CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis to target stubborn fat. The cold destroys fat cells, which are then naturally expelled by the body without harming the surrounding skin and tissue. The FDA cleared this cosmetic procedure in 2010, and it can target fat pockets in areas such as the upper arms, abdomen, double chin, bra area, back, love handles, inner and outer thighs, and knees. Many people have achieved success with CoolSculpting, making it a popular choice for those seeking to improve their body contours without surgery or downtime. For optimal results, it’s recommended to consult with an experienced healthcare professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City.

How much does CoolSculpting cost?

The total cost of a CoolSculpting treatment varies by patient. Factors affecting the price include the number of treatment areas, the number of applicators needed, and the number of sessions required to achieve your body contouring goals. Treating multiple areas requires more applicators to target different fat pockets, and larger applicators typically cost more than smaller ones. For optimal results, Dr. Green may recommend repeating a CoolSculpting session in a specific area 4 to 12 weeks after the first treatment. Additionally, the cost of procedures such as CoolSculpting can vary by location. For example, prices in New York City might differ from those in Los Angeles. During your body contouring consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC, she will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. At this consultation, the final cost of your CoolSculpting session will be determined.

Is CoolSculpting worth it?

CoolSculpting can be a worthwhile investment, especially for those dealing with stubborn fat pockets that don’t respond to traditional diet and exercise. It works best for individuals who are already close to their target weight, since the treatment is designed to shape your body’s contours rather than promote weight loss. One benefit of CoolSculpting is that the results, usually visible within a few weeks, are considered permanent as long as you maintain a stable weight. This means that if you stick to a healthy lifestyle and avoid major weight fluctuations, the treated fat cells are permanently removed from your body. Ultimately, if you desire a more sculpted look in specific areas, CoolSculpting could be a good option. However, it’s important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green, to discuss your goals and determine if it’s the right choice for you.

CoolSculpting vs. Liposuction

CoolSculpting and liposuction are two different fat reduction options. Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery performed by a plastic surgeon, often following guidelines from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. It can be expensive and painful, requiring significant recovery time and carrying potential risks. In contrast, CoolSculpting is a nonsurgical fat-reduction treatment that uses cryolipolysis, a fat-freezing technology. It is the first nonsurgical cosmetic procedure to receive FDA approval for permanently removing fat pockets. With CoolSculpting, there is no downtime, minimal discomfort, and few side effects. While liposuction results are often visible quickly, it involves a longer recovery and can sometimes leave the treated area with loose skin. Conversely, CoolSculpting results develop over several months without downtime, incisions, pain, anesthesia, or risk of loose skin. For this reason, many patients prefer CoolSculpting over plastic surgery options like liposuction, since it can often be done during a lunch break and on nearly any area of the body.

Can I combine CoolSculpting with other cosmetic procedures?

Yes! One advantage of CoolSculpting is that it involves no downtime, making it easy to combine with other cosmetic procedures. Two of the most popular treatments used alongside CoolSculpting at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office are Kybella and Thermage.

Dr. Green often combines CoolSculpting and Kybella to target specific fat areas and achieve optimal body contouring results. Kybella is an FDA-approved cosmetic injection designed to reduce fat in the treated area, improve the contour of the jawline and neck, and enhance the overall appearance of the submental region. Made from a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, Kybella mimics a naturally occurring body substance that helps break down dietary fat. Once injected, Kybella permanently destroys the targeted fat cells in the treatment area. After the CoolSculpting procedure removes most of the excess fat, Dr. Green often uses Kybella injections to precisely eliminate any remaining fat. To achieve the best overall cosmetic outcome, patients typically need 2 to 4 treatment sessions, spaced about one month apart.

Many patients with pockets of fat also struggle with loose, sagging skin. The new Thermage FLX offers an innovative treatment for collagen regeneration, using advanced radiofrequency (RF) technology to reduce visible signs of aging—including loose skin—on the face, jowls, neck, abdomen, arms, and legs. This treatment employs radiofrequency energy to stimulate new collagen production, a protein that helps give the skin a firm foundation and youthful look. Thermage FLX has the same state-of-the-art technology as earlier Thermage devices, with notable upgrades in various treatment aspects. It is one of the most popular non-invasive skin-tightening options at Dr. Michele Green’s NYC office. Those seeking to improve skin laxity without surgery can trust Thermage. Like CoolSculpting, Thermage involves no downtime. During your consultation, Dr. Green will work with you to craft a personalized treatment plan that includes the non-invasive procedures best suited to your unique concerns and goals.

CoolSculpting Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is CoolSculpting safe?

Patients often worry about side effects and ask, “Is CoolSculpting dangerous?” CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved procedure, meaning it has successfully passed multiple clinical trials demonstrating its safety and effectiveness. The risks associated with CoolSculpting are very low, with common mild side effects such as redness, bruising, slight swelling, and temporary soreness—all of which go away on their own. Some residual numbness in the treated area can last for several weeks, which is normal. To ensure safety and optimal results, it’s best to have CoolSculpting performed by an experienced healthcare professional, such as Dr. Michele Green. When consulting with Dr. Green about your treatment, she will review your medical history and examine the treatment area before creating a personalized plan to help you achieve optimal results.

Does CoolSculpting hurt?

The CoolSculpting procedure is not painful. However, some discomfort might occur during the first five minutes until the skin is “frozen.” After that, there is no discomfort for the rest of the treatment. Most patients watch a movie, work on their laptops, or take a nap during the session. Right after, there may be temporary discomfort and tenderness when the applicator is removed as the treatment area “thaws.” Rarely, lingering numbness may occur in the treatment area, but it usually resolves within a few weeks.

Does CoolSculpting get rid of cellulite?

Cellulite is a condition marked by a dimpled or textured look of the skin, commonly seen on the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. While CoolSculpting mainly targets excess fat cells, it does not specifically treat cellulite. Cellulite appears as dimpled, lumpy skin when fibrous bands in the skin thicken as fat gathers, creating tension between the skin and the underlying muscle. As these bands tighten, they pull the skin downward, resulting in fat bulges and a dimpled appearance. Additionally, age-related collagen loss causes skin laxity, making cellulite more noticeable.

Although cellulite cannot be fully eliminated, its appearance can be reduced with Thermage FLX treatment. Thermage is a skin-tightening procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate new collagen production and remodel existing collagen in the dermis. By promoting collagen growth, Thermage can restore lost collagen in targeted areas, resulting in tighter, smoother skin and a less noticeable appearance of cellulite.

Besides Thermage, another popular cosmetic treatment for colored stretch marks—particularly those with red or purple hues—is the VBeam laser treatment. This laser procedure is regarded as the gold standard for effectively reducing redness and restoring skin tone. If you’re considering cellulite treatments, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Michele Green, to identify the best options for you.

Does CoolSculpting tighten skin?

Skin laxity naturally occurs with age as the body’s collagen production declines. While CoolSculpting does not tighten skin on its own, several non-invasive cosmetic procedures can assist. Thermage is a non-invasive skin-tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) technology to heat the deeper layers of skin. This heat encourages collagen production, resulting in firmer, tighter, and smoother skin with no downtime. The technology can treat skin laxity on the face, neck, arms, knees, thighs, abdomen, chest, and buttocks. The Thermage FLX is the latest version of skin-tightening treatments, featuring a larger handpiece for faster procedures and advanced technology for more precise results. Many patients combine Thermage FLX with CoolSculpting to achieve optimal body contouring results.

How long does CoolSculpting last?

Patients often wonder, “Does CoolSculpting last?” The answer is yes! One of the main benefits of CoolSculpting is that the frozen fat cells removed from the body are permanent, provided no weight is gained after treatment. A single session can reduce fat cells in the targeted area by up to 25%, and some patients choose to repeat their treatment for an additional 15% fat reduction. Since the results are permanent, repeating CoolSculpting in the same area isn’t necessary if you maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle, including regular exercise and a nutritious diet.

How many CoolSculpting treatment sessions do I need?

Many patients achieve their desired body contouring results after just one treatment and maintain them through healthy lifestyle choices. Some choose to repeat the CoolSculpting procedure in the same area to reduce fat by up to 40%. The total number of sessions needed depends on the initial amount of unwanted fat and the patient’s overall body goals. When you consult with Dr. Green at her boutique dermatology office in NYC, she will evaluate the treatment area to help determine how many CoolSculpting sessions you may need for optimal results, and she will plan a follow-up to see if any additional treatment is necessary.

How long does it take for CoolSculpting to work?

CoolSculpting begins working immediately as fat cells are frozen; however, visible results typically take 2 to 4 months to appear. The freezing process destroys fat cells instantly, but your body’s natural lymphatic system is responsible for removing the treated cells. While CoolSculpting yields long-lasting results, keep in mind that the process is gradual and not instant, with full results usually appearing after 120 days.

What is PAH from CoolSculpting?

Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) is a rare side effect of CoolSculpting that causes fat cells to grow instead of shrink. Usually, PAH shows up 3 to 6 months after the procedure as a firm, bulging area at the treatment site. Although the exact cause of PAH isn’t fully understood, studies indicate that the risk of developing PAH after CoolSculpting is low, affecting about 0.05-0.39% of patients. If PAH occurs, liposuction—a surgical procedure—can be used to reverse it.

Can you do CoolSculpting at home?

Attempting to do CoolSculpting at home is not recommended. Using ice or frozen materials on stubborn fat areas won’t effectively remove fat, as cold only affects the skin and fat cells; it may just freeze your skin, which is neither effective nor safe. Serious side effects, such as frostbite and permanent skin and tissue damage, can happen if people try to perform CoolSculpting themselves. Cryolipolysis should be performed only with FDA-approved CoolSculpting devices by trained, licensed professionals to ensure safety and proper results. For the best outcomes, a qualified healthcare professional, like Dr. Green in NYC, should perform the procedure. Dr. Green was among the first dermatologists in New York to offer CoolSculpting, using it for over a decade to help patients achieve their ideal body contours.

Are CoolSculpting results permanent?

Yes! The final cosmetic results of CoolSculpting are permanent, provided a patient does not gain weight after treatment. If weight is gained later, the fat cells in the treated area will enlarge, and new fat cells may form, reversing the benefits of your CoolSculpting procedure and possibly requiring more treatments. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for preserving the body-contouring results of CoolSculpting.

Is CoolSculpting painful?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive outpatient procedure that causes minimal discomfort and requires no downtime. During treatment, as the applicator begins to deliver cold temperatures to the treatment area, patients may feel discomfort until the area cools enough. In the first 5-10 minutes, they might experience tugging, pinching, or intense cold. After this initial phase, the treatment area becomes numb for the rest of the procedure. Once the applicator is removed and the area begins to warm up, patients may notice side effects such as residual numbness or tenderness, which usually resolve on their own over the next few days.

Do you lose weight with CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is not intended for weight loss or the treatment of obesity. It is a nonsurgical fat reduction procedure that can remove up to 25% of stubborn fat cells in the targeted area. While it does not promote weight loss, it can decrease the circumference of the treated area.

Does insurance, Medicare, or FSA cover CoolSculpting?

No. Typically, health insurance companies do not cover cosmetic procedures like CoolSculpting. Although safe and effective, this treatment is considered cosmetic rather than medical, so medical insurance usually does not pay for it. The best way to find out about your coverage for various procedures is to contact your insurance provider.

Is CoolSculpting effective?

CoolSculpting is a safe and effective nonsurgical fat reduction procedure that received FDA approval in 2010. This approval indicates that numerous clinical trials were conducted to verify its safety and effectiveness. Studies show that CoolSculpting can eliminate up to 25% of fat cells in the treated area. While it helps reduce stubborn fat bulges, CoolSculpting is not designed for weight loss. The results of body contouring are permanent, provided there is no additional weight gain after treatment. Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle is essential. If you gain weight, the remaining fat cells in the treated area may expand, diminishing the benefits of your CoolSculpting procedure. Some patients opt for multiple treatments to improve their results.

Where can I get CoolSculpting?

Patients interested in CoolSculpting often ask, “Who does CoolSculpting near me?” To find the best CoolSculpting treatment nearby, look for board-certified dermatologists with years of experience using this technology to prevent adverse effects. The office of Dr. Michele Green is one of the top dermatology clinics in NYC for CoolSculpting. CoolSculpting is an international brand and procedure available in many countries worldwide, approved by numerous regulatory agencies. While the treatment was first approved by the FDA in 2010, it has since been approved in several countries across North and South America, Europe, and Asia. Choosing a reputable, experienced provider for your CoolSculpting is essential to minimize risks. It is advisable to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, before starting treatment to ensure the safest and most effective results.

How can I get started with CoolSculpting today?

Thanks to CoolSculpting, removing stubborn fat bulges has become easier and more effective. This innovative, nonsurgical fat-reduction technique uses cryolipolysis to target and freeze fat cells, permanently eliminating them. It can remove up to 25% of fat cells in the treated area, with minimal discomfort and no downtime. If you struggle with unwanted fat in common trouble spots like the double chin, abdomen, love handles, inner thighs, outer thighs, distal thighs, back, bra fat, the banana roll, or upper arms, CoolSculpting could be the ideal nonsurgical body contouring option for you. At her private dermatology practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Dr. Green has used CoolSculpting for over 10 years to help her patients achieve optimal body-contouring results.

Dr. Michele Green is a globally recognized expert in cosmetic dermatology with over 25 years of experience offering the latest non-invasive cosmetic treatments, including nonsurgical fat-reduction and body-contouring procedures such as CoolSculpting. She is regularly recognized by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine as one of New York City’s leading dermatologists for her commitment to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green about nonsurgical fat reduction, she will work with you to develop a fully personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific concerns and body goals. If you’re interested in nonsurgical fat reduction and want to learn more about CoolSculpting in NYC, contact us online or call 212-535-3088 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Green.