Plastic surgery restores form and function through reconstructive procedures, cosmetic enhancements, and body contouring.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
On the day of the procedure (treatment, not surgery), the patient is taken to a private room. The pre-determined markings are refreshed or redrawn to guide applicator placement. The patient is positioned comfortably on a treatment bed or chair, supported by pillows.
A pre-treatment wipe is used to protect the skin. Then, a cool gel pad is placed over the treatment area. This pad acts as a thermal coupling agent and a barrier to protect the skin from direct contact with the cooling applicator, preventing frostbite.
As the cooling begins, the patient feels intense cold. This sensation typically lasts for 5 to 10 minutes. After this initial period, the area becomes numb (anesthesia by cold), and the discomfort subsides.
Patients can relax during the remainder of the cycle, which usually lasts 35 to 75 minutes, depending on the applicator used. Many patients read, work on their phones, watch TV, or even nap during this time. The machine hums quietly as it maintains the therapeutic temperature.
As the cooling begins, the patient feels intense cold. This sensation typically lasts for 5 to 10 minutes. After this initial period, the area becomes numb (anesthesia by cold), and the discomfort subsides.
Patients can relax during the remainder of the cycle, which usually lasts 35 to 75 minutes, depending on the applicator used. Many patients read, work on their phones, watch TV, or even nap during this time. The machine hums quietly as it maintains the therapeutic temperature.
When the cycle ends, the applicator is removed. The treated tissue will look like a firm block of butter (a “butterstick”) and will be cold and red. The provider immediately performs a 2-minute manual massage on the area.
This message is crucial. It breaks up the crystallized fat cells and restores blood flow (reperfusion) to the tissue. It has been shown to enhance fat reduction significantly. This part can be uncomfortable or painful for some patients as the feeling returns to the warm tissue.
After the massage, the area may feel tender, stiff, or bruised. The skin will be red, but this usually fades within a few hours. Some patients experience temporary skin whitening or blanching.
Patients can stand and walk immediately. No recovery room time is required. They can dress and leave the clinic right away. The treated area might feel numb to the touch, a sensation that can persist for several weeks.
There is typically no social downtime. Patients can return to work immediately. However, the treated area may feel sore, similar to the feeling after a rigorous workout. Swelling and bruising are common and can develop over the first few days.
Some patients experience cramping or aching. Wearing compression garments (like Spanx) can help minimize tissue movement and provide comfort. Loose clothing is recommended to avoid friction on the sensitized skin.
Around day 3 to 5 post-treatment, some patients experience late-onset pain. This is often described as shooting pains, deep stabbing, or severe tenderness. This is caused by the nerves regenerating and waking up from the cold injury.
This is a normal, albeit uncomfortable, part of the process. It is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, gabapentin (if prescribed), and compression. It typically resolves within a few days to a week.
Exercise can be resumed as soon as the patient feels comfortable, often the next day. There are no restrictions on movement. In fact, exercise is encouraged to help the lymphatic system process the released lipids.
Patients do not need to stay in bed. Maintaining an active routine helps the body metabolize the fat cells that have been destroyed. Sweating and movement are beneficial.
As the nerves heal and the numbness subsides (usually weeks 1-3), patients often report intense itching in the treated area. This is a sign of healing.
Oral antihistamines can help manage the itch. Patients are advised not to scratch vigorously to avoid damaging the skin. Applying a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer can also provide relief.
While recovery is usually smooth, patients are educated to watch for PAH. This presents as a gradual enlargement and firming of the treated area, usually 2 to 5 months after treatment. The area may look like the shape of the applicator.
This is painless but aesthetically distressing. It is not fat regrowth from weight gain but a reaction of the tissue. If this occurs, patients must return to the provider. It is treated with liposuction, not more CoolSculpting.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
The initial pull of the vacuum can be surprising and feel like a firm pinch or tug. It can take your breath away for a moment. However, this sensation usually fades within minutes as the cold numbs the area.
Yes. Since there is no anesthesia or sedation involved, you are perfectly safe to drive yourself home immediately after the treatment.
The massage is a critical part of the clinical protocol. Studies show it improves fat reduction by up to 68%. Skipping the massage significantly reduces the treatment’s effectiveness. It is worth the 2 minutes of discomfort.
Yes, you can shower. However, the treated area might be numb or sensitive to temperature extremes. Avoid very hot water directly on the site if it feels tender or stinging.
Numbness is widespread and can last anywhere from a few weeks to two months. It gradually fades as the nerves repair themselves. It generally does not interfere with daily function.
Leave your phone number and our medical team will call you back to discuss your healthcare needs and answer all your questions.
Your Comparison List (you must select at least 2 packages)
