9 FAQs About CoolSculpting

Riverchase Dermatology is proud to offer CoolSculpting to our patients. While this treatment has been out for some time, we still get a lot of questions about it. Some easy questions like, Is it Cool Sculpting or CoolSculpting? (According to our very own Dr. Leyda Bowes, who’s husband invented it, it’s one word.) Then there are more profound questions that take some extra explanation. 

We talked with Carla Homez, CCE, CME, a Body Contouring Specialists at Bowes Dermatology by Riverchase, to go over some of the frequently asked questions from prospective patients. 

1. What is cryolipolysis?

CoolSculpting is a revolutionary aesthetic treatment that uses the patented technology “cryolipolysis” to eliminate unwanted localized fat from our bodies. “Cryo” means cold, “lipo” means fat, and “lysis” means to break down. So Cryolipolysis is the breakdown of the fat cell with cold. 

2. Fat Freezing? How does that work?

How is this possible? Fat cells are naturally more susceptible to cold than any other structure in the body. Therefore, the localized application of an exact and specific cold temperature causes the fat cells to crystallize, becoming incapable of sustaining life. These fat cells then program themselves to die permanently and are eliminated naturally by the body in the following weeks after the treatment.

3. Is CoolSculpting safe? Does it work?

Cryolipolysis is safe and can be successful. Like most cosmetic treatments, other conditions play an essential role in a patient’s success. Just applying any “cold” to the area doesn’t show the same result. Your provider should be taking precise measurements of the tissue and heat extraction. Without strict attention to detail, cryolipolysis can be hazardous and have permanent side effects.

4. Is CoolSculpting FDA approved?

The FDA cleared CoolSculpting in 2009, and there have been over 100 clinical studies showing safety and excellent results. Since then, there have been more than 7 million treatments worldwide. As of today, our CoolSculpting Center of Excellence at Bowes Dermatology by Riverchase has performed over 20,000 CoolSculpting procedures.

5. What areas of the body can I treat with CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting can treat nine different body areas of visible bulges of the most stubborn fat. These include: 

• Under the chin and jawline
• Arms
• Bra fat and back
• Abdomen
• Flanks (love handles)
• Inner and outer thighs
• Banana rolls (underneath the buttocks) 
• Distal thigh (fat that accumulates around the knee)

6. What kind of results can I expect?

In just one session, CoolSculpting reduces 20-25% of the fat cells in each area. There is no downtime, and patients can go back to their regular activities, including working out immediately after. Patients can see permanent results in 1 to 3 months as long as they do not gain weight after the treatment. However, additional treatments lead to more significant results.

7. Liposuction vs. CoolSculpting, what’s the difference?

CoolSculpting is non-invasive and has very few contraindications. Its non-invasive nature allows almost every patient to be a candidate. Most invasive procedures, like Liposuction, are not suitable for many patients. Since invasive procedures require surgery and physically removing the fat, there is a long list of contraindications that disqualify a good amount of people. 

Another big difference is the way that CoolSculpting contours the body. This procedure reduces the bulges but keeping it looking natural. There is no surgery, so there are no marks or scars. Patients can keep their body contouring a secret if they would like. 

Liposuction can leave scars and marks that a reserved patient will want to cover up. These marks can make a patient feel self-consensus and limit their wardrobe.

8. Do you have a favorite CoolSculpting Story?

In my almost ten years of experience, I have treated many patients from the ages of 16 to 90 years old. Yes, 90 YEARS OLD, and she is probably one of my favorite stories. She was this beautiful, well-polished Italian lady with her hair and make-up on point. 

We sat down and went over her expectations and goals. She wanted her abdomen reduced so that she could fit better in her clothes. More importantly, she had a dress that she wanted to wear to a Gatsby Party. 

I explained to her that she could see suboptimal results due to her advanced age. She understood my concerns, but still decided to have the procedure done.

Two months after her treatment, she came back delighted with her results. She shared pictures of her all dressed up for the party to the whole office, showing off her hourglass figure. She taught me that there is no age limit in wanting to feel and look your best.

9. How do I get more information?

To schedule your free consultation with Carla Homez or one of our other Body Contouring Specialist, visit our CoolSculpting page.

Click here you can find your nearest location and schedule your appointment. 

Or you can call one of our CoolSculpting Center of Excellence in Florida:

Venice (941) 955-0360

Fort Myers South (239) 313-2553

North Naples (239) 449-3499

Miami (305) 856-6519

Bay Harbor Islands (305) 866-2177