For decades, the only option for removing stubborn fat was surgery. Liposuction is still one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the country, but not everyone wants to go through the invasive process and recovery of surgical fat removal. That’s why CoolSculpting, first FDA-approved in 2010, has become such a popular for patients from all walks of life.
CoolSculpting is a cryolipolysis treatment that works by freezing unwanted fat in “problem areas” like the stomach, hips, and thighs. Patients will not need anesthesia during treatment, and there are no incisions or needles required. Panels hold unwanted fat in place while it is cooled, destroying the cells permanently. Over the next few weeks, the body gradually disposes of the fat. It’s totally non-invasive and convenient, with each treatment taking just an hour or less. For people with busy schedules, CoolSculpting can be the perfect solution as there’s no downtime and very few side effects.
Is CoolSculpting Right for You?
If you’ve got love handles or a belly pooch that just won’t go away, no matter how many reps at the gym you do, then you’re probably intrigued by CoolSculpting. Does it live up to the hype? Is it right for you? CoolSculpting is very safe, and it can be a great option for a wide range of people who want to get rid of stubborn fat. That said, it’s not right for everyone. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself to find out if CoolSculpting is right for you.
How Much Do You Want to Lose?
The first question you need to ask yourself (and be honest!) is: how much fat do I want to lose? CoolSculpting, like liposuction, isn’t designed for weight loss. It’s designed to sculpt your body and get rid of those annoying “problem areas” we all have. If you’re working on losing weight, it’s best to wait on CoolSculpting until your weight is stable and you’re at or near your goal weight. That’s when the magic can really happen–when CoolSculpting can transform your silhouette.
Are You Willing to Wait For Results?
Many people are surprised to find that they’ll have to wait several weeks to see their result. That’s because the body gets rid of the destroyed fat naturally. During liposuction surgery, a plastic surgeon suctions out the unwanted fat. In CoolSculpting, there are no incisions, and no way to get the fat out immediately. If you choose CoolSculpting, you’ll need to be prepared for some waiting to see your results.
Are Your Expectations in Line With Reality?
CoolSculpting can remove up to about 25% of the fat in any given treatment area. In people with stubborn problem areas, this can make a huge difference. If you’ve still got some weight to lose, the results might not be so dramatic. It’s important to take the time to look at before-and-after pictures to help you set your expectations before you choose CoolSculpting. If you’re a good CoolSculpting candidate, you’ll be expecting improvement over perfection.
Are You Healthy?
CoolSculpting is a safe, FDA-approved procedure. That doesn’t mean that everyone is healthy enough for the procedure, however. People with cryoglobulinemia, cold agglutinin disease, or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria are not CoolSculpting candidates. Pregnant women should also not undergo CoolSculpting treatments.
Besides general good health, CoolSculpting patients should be dedicated to living a healthy lifestyle long-term. An ideal CoolSculpting candidate is a person who is willing to prioritize healthy habits in order to maintain their results. That’s easier if those habits are in place before the procedure.
Find Out if You’re a CoolSculpting Candidate
The best plastic surgeon in the world can’t give you the results you’re looking for if you aren’t a good candidate for CoolSculpting. That’s why it’s so important to consult with an expert before you move forward. To find out if you’re a CoolSculpting candidate, you will need to schedule a consultation with an experienced professional. He or she will ask you questions, perform an exam, and help you decide if the procedure is right for you.
Want to find out why so many people are raving about CoolSculpting? The skincare and cosmetic medicine experts at the Hillelson-Whipple Clinic in Richmond, VA have performed many successful CoolSculpting procedures. They are experts in deciding whether an individual CoolSculpting candidate will benefit from the procedure. For more information or to schedule your consultation, call 804.290.0060 today or fill out the clinic’s contact form.