CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is an innovative non-invasive body contouring procedure designed to reduce stubborn fat in various areas of the body by freezing and destroying fat cells. The CoolSculpting procedure eliminates stubborn fat safely and effectively without surgery or significant downtime. This fat reduction treatment is the only FDA-cleared procedure to use controlled freezing to safely target and eliminate diet- and exercise-resistant fat. ⁽¹⁾

San Diego’s Alexander Cosmetic Surgery is renowned across Southern California for delivering impressive results through personalized, innovative treatments. Dr. John T. Alexander and his team have vast amounts of experience to rely on, helping patients achieve their desired results with ease. If you would like to explore the body-shaping possibilities offered by CoolSculpting, please schedule a consultation today. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call our San Diego office at (858) 455-7557.

About CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared procedure that specifically targets localized fat deposits through controlled cooling technology. The goal is to freeze fat cells in a process called cryolipolysis, causing them to die off while leaving surrounding tissues unharmed. ⁽¹⁾ Fat cells freeze at higher temperatures than surrounding tissues. CoolSculpting technology safely delivers precisely controlled cooling to gently and effectively target the fat cells underneath the skin. The treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen) and over time, your body naturally eliminates these dead cells, leaving a more sculpted appearance. Many individuals choose CoolSculpting because it provides a solution for those pesky areas of stubborn fat that linger despite efforts such as dieting and exercising. The CoolSculpting fat-freezing procedure is completely non-surgical, so you can typically return to work and normal activities immediately.

Benefits

CoolSculpting offers many benefits for patients wishing to enhance their body image. At Alexander Cosmetic Surgery, we help our patients achieve their results through:

Candidates

CoolSculpting candidates usually have noticeable bulges of fat in certain areas that they would like to get rid of. The CoolSculpting fat reduction procedure is specifically designed for those who have unwanted fat that resists diet and exercise. CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution; it is, however, a non-surgical alternative to liposuction and an effective body-sculpting tool. It is most effective for patients who are at or near their target weight. Individuals with certain medical conditions might not be suitable candidates, which is why it is essential to consult with an expert who can evaluate your suitability for the procedure.

Personal Consultation

The personal consultation is a crucial first step in determining whether CoolSculpting is appropriate for you. During this meeting, Dr. Alexander will review your medical history, evaluate your areas of concern, and discuss your aesthetic goals. Through careful assessment, Dr. Alexander can recommend a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs. Questions regarding the number of sessions required, expected results, and any other concerns you may have will also be discussed to ensure you make an informed choice about moving forward.

Preparation

Because CoolSculpting is a non-invasive treatment, it does not require significant preparation like its more invasive counterparts. However, there are still a few key steps you can take to optimize your results. Drinking plenty of water is recommended before your treatment. Refrain from taking medications or supplements that can thin the blood in the days leading up to your procedure. On the day of your session, dress in loose-fitting attire to ensure comfort during treatment.

Procedure

CoolSculpting achieves its body contouring results through a process called cryolipolysis. Fatty tissues are more susceptible to lower temperatures, allowing them to freeze at temperatures that leave other tissues untouched. During your CoolSculpting procedure, a provider will carefully apply a cooling effect to targeted deposits of fat. When the water inside these fat cells freezes, the ice crystals disrupt the integrity of the cells which ultimately destroys them. ⁽²⁾ These dead cells are then eliminated by the body’s natural metabolic and lymphatic processes. As this cooling effect is delivered to the area, patients may experience initial sensations of pulling, tugging, or intense cold, which usually subsides as the area becomes numb. Throughout the treatment, the patient’s comfort is monitored. The applicator may gently massage the treated area post-cooling to aid circulation. After the completed cycle, the area may be massaged briefly to enhance fat cell elimination. It is essential to note that there are no incisions, which signifies a significant difference from traditional fat reduction surgeries like liposuction.

Recovery

Because CoolSculpting is simple and non-invasive, recovery is easy and comes without any risk of significant complications. Patients can return to routine activities virtually immediately following their treatment. Depending on the scale of their procedure, we may recommend taking a day or two to rest, however. You may experience temporary redness, swelling, or sensitivity in the treated area, which typically resolves within a week. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor your results and discuss any additional treatments if desired.

Results

Results generally begin to become visible within a few weeks, with optimal changes appearing within three months as your body naturally processes and eliminates the treated fat cells. Many individuals witness a gradual improvement in body contour. Before and after results can vary by patient, but numerous studies have indicated significant fat reduction in treated areas, enhancing overall appearance and self-esteem. ⁽²⁾

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures

CoolSculpting can deliver impressive body contouring results for many patients, but some may require more advanced techniques to achieve their body image goals. In these cases, Dr. Alexander will likely recommend a liposuction procedure. Liposuction is one of, if not the most common body sculpting procedures performed worldwide. With only a few small incisions in the targeted areas of the body, you can permanently remove stubborn fat and enhance your confidence. Dr. Alexander also offers VASER liposuction, which uses a cannula that oscillates rapidly to further assist in the breakdown and removal of fatty tissue.

For patients wishing to avoid surgical methods altogether, Kybella may be an attractive option, especially if they are burdened with fat underneath the chin. Kybella (KYBELLA®) is an injectable medication that uses deoxycholic acid to reduce submental fullness, also known as a “double chin.” Deoxycholic acid kills fat cells in the area it is injected into, and these dead cells are then similarly eliminated by the body as with CoolSculpting.

Cost of CoolSculpting in San Diego

The price for CoolSculpting procedures varies depending on your areas of concern, the number of sessions necessary, and your ultimate aesthetic goals. When you meet with one of the providers at Alexander Cosmetic Surgery to discuss your treatment plan, you will receive a cost estimate. We are happy to work with you to create a plan that works for your goals and budget. Our practice also offers financing options, so you can pay for your treatment while already experiencing its results.

FAQ

References

1. Kania B, Goldberg DJ. Cryolipolysis: A promising nonsurgical technique for localized fat reduction. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2023;22(S3):1-7. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.16039
2. Ingargiola MJ, Motakef S, Chung MT, Vasconez HC, Sasaki GH. Cryolipolysis for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2015;135(6):1581-1590. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/prs.0000000000001236