What Is Coolsculpting?

Coolsculpting represents a significant advance in the treatment of problem fat collections. The technique has been clinically proven and has FDA approval.

The procedure involves placing an applicator over the involved area. Suction is then applied, which draws the soft tissue into the device where it’s held in place. The skin and fat are then cooled in a controlled manner. Upon completion of treatment, the involved area is gently massaged to smooth contour irregularities that have been created by the device.

When single anatomic areas are treated, the procedure typically lasts about an hour. Depending on the magnitude of the problem, multiple treatments may be necessary.

Commonly treated areas include the abdomen, flanks, hips, bra strap area, inner thighs, outer thighs, saddle bags and banana rolls.

In the vast majority of patients who undergo coolsculpting the results are excellent. The procedure is very safe and there appears to be no long term problems associated with the procedure.

Unfortunately, the procedure isn't for everyone. Patients with large amounts of fat or loose skin may need more aggressive procedures. In this group, liposuction or skin resections may be more appropriate. It is important to remember that the best results occur when there’s appropriate patient selection and expectations are realistic.

Weight Loss Before Liposuction

Whenever possible, patients should be near their ideal body weight before they undergo liposuction. For some patients this just isn’t possible and under these circumstances a stable body weight is acceptable. When patients are actively losing weight, it’s appropriate to delay surgery until a stable weight has been obtained.

It’s important to realize that weight fluctuations after surgery can adversely impact the results of liposuction. For this reason, every effort should be made to reach a stable weight that can be easily maintained before and after surgery.

Liposuction & Weight Loss

Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. The procedure is performed to fix localized fat deposits, which adversely impact body contour.  These fat collections may be located in a variety of locations including the abdomen, hips, thighs, flanks, and arms to name a few.  In many cases these areas don’t respond to diet and exercise.

 

When liposuction is performed, it’s unusual for this procedure to result in weight loss greater than one or two pounds.  Despite this, even when patients are twenty pounds overweight, liposuction can result in improved body contour and high satisfaction rates.
 
When weight loss is the primary goal, a weight loss program would be appropriate.  Consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon would be a helpful first step. Make sure he or she discusses all of your options and helps determine which one is best for you.