CoolSculpting for Stomach

For many of us, one of the biggest sources of body insecurities comes from having stubborn fat bulges that resist disappearing, especially around our stomachs. Despite maintaining healthy lifestyles, exercising regularly, and following a balanced diet, we often still struggle with stubborn fat in our abdomen, flanks, and thighs. These excess fat cells can keep many of us from feeling fully confident in our bodies. Fortunately, with the innovation of CoolSculpting® treatment, we can now eliminate stubborn body fat without needing plastic surgery or any downtime. If you’ve been struggling with unwanted fat bulges, CoolSculpting may be the right treatment for you.

CoolSculpting is an innovative fat reduction method that removes fat cells through a fat freezing process. It works by using the science of cryolipolysis. This was discovered when observing how children developed temporary dimples in their cheeks while eating frozen popsicles, showing that fat cells can be reduced when frozen. CoolSculpting leverages this principle to target and eliminate fat cells in many areas of the body. It is FDA-cleared to reduce fat in nine specific areas, including love handles, upper arms, double chin, inner thighs, outer thighs, lower abdomen, bra fat, and back fat. Different applicators are used depending on the treatment area. This quick, effective, and painless treatment requires no downtime. It results in a slimmer, more contoured appearance in targeted areas, often after just one session! If stubborn fat has been bothering you and you want to enhance your look and confidence, NYC board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green is here to help.

Dr. Green was among the first cosmetic dermatologists in New York City to add CoolSculpting to her private practice on the Upper East Side. With over 25 years of experience in non-invasive body contouring methods, including CoolSculpting and Thermage, she is a recognized expert. Dr. Green is consistently named one of the top dermatologists in NYC by Castle Connolly, the New York Times, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine. She adopts a holistic approach to cosmetic dermatology, tailoring each treatment plan to match each patient’s unique anatomy, skin type, tone, and concerns. When you visit Dr. Green at her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will collaborate with you to develop a personalized body contouring plan that helps you look and feel like your best self again.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved cosmetic treatment designed to reduce fat cells in various areas of the body, including the stomach, arms, inner and outer thighs, neck, flanks, love handles, back, and banana roll. It features different applicators tailored for specific treatment areas. The procedure works by non-invasively freezing fat cells in the subcutaneous layer, also known as the fat layer beneath the skin surface. These fat cells can be more challenging to eliminate and may cause bulges even with a healthy diet and regular exercise. CoolSculpting is an ideal non-invasive option for reducing the appearance of stubborn fat, with each session decreasing fat bulges by approximately 25%. However, while CoolSculpting effectively reduces fat cells, it is not intended for weight loss.

How does CoolSculpting work on the stomach fat?

Even if you are close to your target weight, stubborn fat pockets can stay, causing unwanted bulges. These fat deposits are usually found in the subcutaneous layer, right beneath the skin’s surface. Fat in this area tends to be much harder to get rid of; however, CoolSculpting is a procedure specifically made to target these persistent fat cells. It uses the FDA-approved fat reduction technique called cryolipolysis. When the CoolSculpting applicator is placed on the skin, it cools the fat cells underneath without damaging the surrounding tissue. These frozen fat cells are then broken down by the lymphatic system, permanently eliminating stubborn fat. It’s important to remember that CoolSculpting is not a weight-loss method. Instead, it aims to eliminate fat cells. However, the results can be undermined if patients gain a lot of weight after treatment, as CoolSculpting isn’t a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

How many CoolSculpting applicators are there for the stomach?

CoolSculpting has several different applicator devices, each designed for specific body areas. Dr. Green uses the following CoolSculpting applicators in her office: CoolAdvantage Plus, CoolSmooth, CoolPetite, CoolCurve, CoolFit, and CoolCore. With the latest CoolSculpting technology, Dr. Green can effectively treat any area with stubborn fat. When treating the abdomen, Dr. Green uses the following applicators:

• CoolAdvantage Plus – The preferred applicator for treating large areas of the body, the CoolAdvantage Plus is most often used to sculpt the abdominal region. It covers the largest surface area and is ideal for reducing bigger fat deposits. The CoolAdvantage Plus can treat the entire abdomen in fewer sessions compared to smaller applicators. Each treatment session lasts about 45 minutes. If you’re aiming to target your “muffin top” on the lower abdomen, Dr. Green usually recommends using the CoolAdvantage Plus.
• CoolSmooth – The CoolSmooth is a unique, non-vacuum, comfortable surface applicator, particularly well suited for areas of fibrous subcutaneous fat, such as the periumbilical abdomen, back, and other thighs, which cryolipolysis applicators cannot accommodate. A recent study published in 2019 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery illustrated 100% patient satisfaction after two treatments.
• CoolPetite – The CoolPetite is a smaller applicator designed for use on smaller areas of the body, such as the back, small flanks, abdomen, or banana roll. If you already have a smaller stomach, Dr. Green may recommend using the CoolPetite to target excess fat in the lower abdomen. With the CoolPetite applicator, treatment typically takes 35 minutes.
• CoolCurve – The CoolCurve applicator has a uniquely shaped design that contours to curved or angled areas of the body, such as the sides of the abdomen or flanks. It is especially effective for patients with a smaller waist, where a flat applicator might not fit securely. The curved shape allows for more customized and comfortable treatments, providing better contact and fat targeting in areas that wrap around the midsection. Each CoolCurve treatment session lasts approximately 35 minutes and can be used alone or in combination with other applicators to enhance your results.
• CoolFit – The CoolFit applicator is designed to target longer, narrow pockets of fat, such as those along the lower abdomen or inner thighs. Its deeper cooling contact and elongated shape make it especially effective for leaner patients or those with a more athletic build who want to target stubborn fat areas. The CoolFit applicator provides controlled cooling across the treated area, and a typical treatment with CoolFit lasts about 35 minutes.
• CoolCore – The CoolCore applicator is most commonly used to treat the flanks, which are areas of excess fat on the back and along the waist, often called “love handles.” With CoolCore, fat reduction typically takes about 35 minutes per flank. Usually, patients who treat their love handles also address their abdomen at the same time. For those needing a “diamond-shaped” treatment on the stomach, the CoolCore applicator is also appropriate for this procedure.

Female CoolSculpting patient, lower abdomen, 10 months post treatment

Am I a good candidate for CoolSculpting?

The best way to find out if you’re a good candidate for CoolSculpting is to talk with an expert, like Dr. Michele Green in New York. CoolSculpting is a great fat reduction treatment for many patients who are close to their ideal weight, healthy, and have a stubborn fat pocket that won’t go away despite diet and exercise. Patients who are pregnant or nursing should wait until they are no longer pregnant and have finished nursing before considering CoolSculpting.

Also, CoolSculpting should not be used if you have any of the following medical conditions:

Cold Agglutinin Disease: an immune disease that attacks red blood cells, which is triggered by cold or freezing temperatures

• Cryoglobulinemia: the presence of abnormal protein in one’s bloodstream that thickens when exposed to colder temperatures
• Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria is an autoimmune anemia in which the body’s immune system attacks its red blood cells after exposure to cold temperatures.

What is the process of CoolSculpting for fat reduction?

The CoolSculpting process for the stomach and other areas starts with a consultation with Dr. Michele Green at her private dermatology office in NYC. Medical photos of your treatment areas are taken for your records, and your weight is recorded. You will then be fitted with different applicators to find the best size(s) to reduce stubborn fat bulges. Dr. Green will give you a written assessment of the treatment areas and a detailed plan to help you achieve your ideal CoolSculpting results. The length of each session, the number of applicators needed, and the cost per treatment will be explained so you can plan your schedule effectively.

Most patients only need one CoolSculpting session to see their desired results. Others may require multiple sessions or applicators to reach their goals. During the treatment, a handheld applicator is placed on your upper, middle, or lower abdomen, depending on the area being treated. Some patients feel mild pinching or discomfort during the first few minutes as the applicator cools the area. Once the skin adjusts, you can sit comfortably for the rest of the session. A typical treatment with a single applicator lasts between 35 and 90 minutes, depending on the applicator used. The total time depends on how many applicators are needed. Many patients bring a book or an iPad to keep themselves occupied during the procedure. Afterward, the fat-freezing area is massaged for several minutes, and you can resume your daily activities without any recovery time.

What to expect after CoolSculpting the stomach

After treatment, you can return to your normal activities. CoolSculpting is a procedure that requires no downtime. You might experience mild tenderness, swelling, or bruising in the treated area as the skin “thaws,” but these symptoms will probably fade within the first week after treatment. Over the following weeks, you’ll start to see the cosmetic results from the CoolSculpting procedure in your treated areas. These results will continue to improve for 3 to 4 months after your initial session. At that time, you’ll have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Green to evaluate your progress and decide if additional treatment sessions are needed. During this follow-up, Dr. Green will review your progress by comparing your before-and-after photos to determine if more CoolSculpting sessions are necessary to achieve the best results.

Are there any side effects from CoolSculpting?

Typically, the side effects of CoolSculpting are very mild and usually include slight swelling or bruising of the treated area for a few days after the procedure. In rare cases, a side effect of CoolSculpting can be symptoms of acute pain, which can be managed with an oral medication like Neurontin to relieve discomfort. In less than 1% of cases, patients may experience paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), a condition where fat cells enlarge instead of breaking down. PAH can develop weeks to months after treatment, and patients may need liposuction or other surgical options to correct it. According to clinical guidance, it is important to wait at least 6 to 9 months before considering surgical removal to ensure the area is fully softened and safe to treat.

Since CoolSculpting is a medical cosmetic procedure, it’s very important to consider where and with whom you undergo the treatment. Many medical spas or “med spas’ offer initial consultations without involving medical professionals. In some cases, CoolSculpting procedures are performed by individuals without proper training or certification in CoolSculpting. For these reasons, we recommend having CoolSculpting treatment only with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York City, who has been treating thousands of patients with CoolSculpting for over a decade.

How many CoolSculpting treatments are needed for the stomach?

For some patients, a single treatment session is enough to eliminate all the bulge from the treatment area. However, others may need to return to Dr. Green’s office for additional sessions to achieve the best results. Each CoolSculpting treatment can reduce the fat bulge in the treatment area by up to 25%. A second treatment in the same area can lower the fat bulge by up to 40%. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will evaluate the treatment area to determine the schedule that best fits your individual needs and aesthetic goals.

How long does CoolSculpting last on the stomach?

The results of CoolSculpting on the stomach last long because the treated fat cells are permanently removed. Once these fat cells are frozen and metabolized, they don’t grow back. However, maintaining your results isn’t just about weight; it’s part of an overall wellness approach that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. While new fat cells won’t form in the treated area, remaining fat cells can still expand if you gain weight. With proper maintenance, most patients can enjoy a slimmer, more contoured abdomen for years after their treatment.

Can CoolSculpting results be enhanced with other cosmetic treatments?

CoolSculpting results can often be improved when combined with other non-invasive cosmetic procedures. While CoolSculpting effectively reduces stubborn fat pockets, combining it with complementary treatments can further enhance and refine your overall body contour. For example, many patients seek both fat reduction and skin tightening, which can be addressed by pairing CoolSculpting and Thermage.

Thermage uses radiofrequency (RF) technology to tighten the skin in the treatment area with no recovery time needed. The RF energy is absorbed by the tissue and converted into heat, causing controlled damage to the targeted area. This leads to the water molecules in the tissue separating from the fibrous protein, resulting in immediate contraction. Additionally, heating the tissue triggers the body’s natural healing process, stimulating collagen production. Collagen is a natural protein that provides the skin with structure, helping to maintain its firmness and youthful appearance. When collagen production is activated, newer, firmer skin replaces the loose skin in the treated area.

The new Thermage FLX offers improved skin tightening results due to its larger treatment tip and advanced AccuRep technology, which optimizes energy delivery for better outcomes. The procedure is non-invasive, with no incisions made, and involves no pain or downtime afterward. After one session, patients typically see visible results within three to six months, with effects lasting up to 18 months. Thermage can be used on various parts of the body, including the stomach, face, jawline, neck, décolletage, buttocks, thighs, arms, and knees.

Male Patient – CoolSculpting with CoolAdvantage & CoolCurve

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CoolSculpting for the stomach

Will CoolSculpting get rid of lower belly fat?

Yes! CoolSculpting is a highly effective body sculpting treatment for reducing belly fat by freezing fat cells to “de-bulk” the treatment area. It is best suited for patients who are close to their ideal weight, as it is not intended for weight loss. However, if you are within 20 pounds of your ideal weight, follow a healthy diet, and exercise regularly, but still have stubborn fat on your stomach, CoolSculpting may be the right choice for you. Using Cryolipolysis technology, CoolSculpting freezes fat cells in the targeted area, decreasing the appearance of belly fat.

Does CoolSculpting really flatten your stomach?

CoolSculpting can help visibly flatten the stomach by reducing bulges and creating a smoother abdominal shape. While it does not remove large amounts of fat like surgical procedures, it is great for sculpting and refining the midsection. Patients who are already close to their ideal weight often see the most noticeable flattening, especially when the lower abdomen is treated.

Why is my stomach hard after CoolSculpting?

It is common for the treated area to feel firm or slightly hard after CoolSculpting. This temporary firmness is part of your body’s natural healing response as it starts to break down the frozen fat cells. The firmness usually softens within a few weeks as swelling goes down and the fat is metabolized. However, if a firm lump resembling the shape of the applicator appears and lasts more than a few weeks, it could be a sign of Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH), a rare but treatable side effect. With Dr. Michele Green’s extensive experience and careful treatment planning, patients are in trusted hands throughout the process. Her expertise ensures CoolSculpting is performed safely, with close monitoring and excellent results.

How long is the stomach swollen after CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive treatment, so the risk of serious side effects is very low. Mild, common side effects may occur after the procedure. One minor side effect in some cases is temporary swelling at the treatment site, usually within the first few days. This swelling typically peaks within 3 to 4 days and resolves on its own within one to two weeks. For larger areas like the abdomen, residual swelling might last a bit longer. Dr. Green will evaluate the treated area during your follow-up appointment.

Does CoolSculpting hurt?

No, CoolSculpting is not a painful procedure. It is a non-invasive treatment, meaning it requires no downtime. During your CoolSculpting session, a specialized applicator is placed on the skin, which freezes the fat cells in the subcutaneous layer. You will feel a “freezing” sensation, which causes the skin to go “numb” after a few minutes. For the rest of the procedure, there is no discomfort in the treated area. Afterward, you might experience some minor discomfort as the skin returns to normal temperature, and there is a small chance of bruising or swelling.

Does CoolSculpting tighten loose skin on the stomach?

When deciding between liposuction or CoolSculpting for the stomach, the main question usually is: does CoolSculpting tighten stomach skin? A common side effect of liposuction is that, because it redistributes fat within the body, it can cause skin laxity or looseness in the treatment area. Unlike invasive procedures like liposuction, CoolSculpting actually destroys fat cells, allowing the body to naturally metabolize them, which helps prevent loose skin from forming initially. Since fat cells are gradually eliminated, CoolSculpting poses less risk of leaving you with loose skin compared to liposuction.

While CoolSculpting is very effective at reducing stubborn fat pockets, it is not intended to tighten loose skin. However, in some cases, fat reduction from CoolSculpting can make the area appear smoother and more contoured. For those with moderate to severe skin laxity who are self-conscious about loose skin on the stomach, surgical options like a tummy tuck may be worth considering. Nonetheless, when it comes to removing stubborn fat on the stomach and eliminating fat cells permanently, CoolSculpting is a highly effective, non-invasive solution that offers long-lasting results.

How much is CoolSculpting for the stomach?

The cost of CoolSculpting depends on several factors. The use of multiple CoolSculpting applicators, the need for several treatments, and your desired results all influence the overall price of your CoolSculpting skincare plan. Additionally, the cost may increase if your plan involves combining CoolSculpting with other procedures, like Thermage for skin tightening. However, since CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure, it generally costs less than plastic surgery options for fat removal. Dr. Green will work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your goals and fits your budget.

Can I get CoolSculpting on the stomach while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy causes many changes to the body, and you may notice excess fat buildup during or after pregnancy. To preserve the results of CoolSculpting, it is recommended to stay within 20 pounds of your ideal weight. Gaining weight can reduce the appearance of results, so outcomes from CoolSculpting during pregnancy may not last. Additionally, there is limited research on the safety of CoolSculpting during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, you might be eligible to start CoolSculpting about three to six months after giving birth and stopping breastfeeding. At that time, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Green to discuss your body contouring options.

Does CoolSculpting work on a large stomach?

CoolSculpting treatments are suitable for various body types and fat areas, so it can be used on stomachs of any size. However, since CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution, you should only consider it if you’re within 20 pounds of your ideal weight. The CoolAdvantage Plus applicator covers a larger area in one session, making it ideal for patients with more extensive abdominal fat. For some, the CoolCore applicator can be used, with four applicators placed on the four quadrants of your abdomen in a diamond pattern to treat the whole area. Studies show that larger abdomens often require two treatments spaced one to four months apart. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will help create a customized CoolSculpting plan for you.

What is liposuction?

When patients consider their options for fat reduction, liposuction is a commonly discussed treatment. Liposuction is an invasive surgical procedure performed by a plastic surgeon to remove fat. The procedure uses a metal tube called a cannula, inserted through an incision, to extract fat cells. Liposuction effectively removes large amounts of excess fat. However, like many plastic surgery procedures, it typically involves significant recovery time and a higher risk of side effects. For patients worried about excess fat but hesitant to undergo a full operation, there are many non-surgical body contouring options that are very effective, including the popular choice, CoolSculpting.

Which treatment is best for reducing belly fat: liposuction or CoolSculpting?

Both Liposuction and CoolSculpting are classified as fat-reduction treatments, meaning they target areas of fat and minimize the appearance of unwanted fat on the body. However, there is a significant difference between the two: liposuction is an invasive procedure performed by a plastic surgeon that requires extensive recovery time, while CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that can be done during your lunch break with no downtime. Because CoolSculpting procedures are much lower in risk compared to liposuction, it has become a popular non-surgical option for fat reduction in the cosmetic industry.

Furthermore, liposuction is designed to remove more fat in a single session, but it also comes with a higher likelihood of side effects. Often, the skin may sag and ripple after liposuction since fat cells are not destroyed in the same way as with CoolSculpting. Since liposuction involves the sudden removal of fat from a specific area, the skin is often left loose afterward. CoolSculpting provides the advantages of zero recovery time and fewer side effects, including a lower risk of skin laxity, for most patients.

How effective is CoolSculpting on the stomach?

CoolSculpting is a highly effective and safe cosmetic procedure for fat removal. Studies show that CoolSculpting can reduce fat in the treated area by up to 25% after just one session, with an additional 15% reduction following a second treatment. The full results of your CoolSculpting treatment become visible three to four months after the procedure. A recent study on treating the abdominal area with a non-vacuum, comfortable surface applicator showed 100% patient satisfaction after two treatments, and 83% of patients would recommend CoolSculpting to a friend. The most exciting part of CoolSculpting is that the results are truly permanent. Once fat cells are frozen, they are naturally processed out of your body through the lymphatic system, and they do not return, as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle after treatment. If you’re dealing with stubborn fat and want a permanent fat reduction solution, CoolSculpting might be the perfect choice for you. Whether it’s stubborn fat in the belly, love handles, buttocks (also known as “banana rolls”), or thighs, CoolSculpting targets these areas with minimal downtime.

How can I get started with CoolSculpting on my stomach today?

Many individuals choose CoolSculpting to improve their natural shape and feel more confident in areas resistant to diet and exercise, such as the abdomen. CoolSculpting is a non-surgical fat reduction treatment that targets and reduces stubborn fat, helping to enhance your natural contours without surgery or downtime. Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified dermatologist and one of the first providers in NYC to offer CoolSculpting. With over 10 years of experience with personalized treatments, Dr. Green has helped many achieve their body contouring goals safely and effectively.

Located in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Dr. Green’s private dermatology office features the latest CoolSculpting technology in a comfortable, discreet setting. During your consultation, Dr. Green will assess your goals and create a personalized treatment plan to boost your confidence. Dr. Green is consistently recognized as one of the top dermatologists in New York by Castle Connolly, The New York Times, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine. For more information about CoolSculpting and body contouring, please contact us online or call the NYC office of Dr. Michele Green today at 212-535-3088