CoolSculpting at Home

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CoolSculpting at Home

When it comes to non-invasively removing fat, CoolSculpting is very hot right now. Medically known as cryolipolysis, the system is used by cosmetic surgeons, dermatologists and other practitioners to help people remove stubborn fat deposits from places like their abdomen, arms, and under the chin area.


How CoolSculpting Works

CoolSculpting takes advantage of the known fact that freezing temperatures can locally destroy fat cells, which makes the procedure particularly effective in removing spot areas of fat that are notoriously unresponsive to changes in diet and exercise.


The CoolSculpting device utilizes a number of paddles that areas of fat are placed between. Very cold temperatures are then created by the paddles, freezing and destroying much of the fat cells found between the paddles. Your own body does the rest of the work from there. The destroyed fat cells will be safely removed by your own body.


CoolSculpting Alternatives?

Since CoolSculpting is not affordable by everyone, and is not covered by insurance, some individuals have tried to recreate the process at home using ice and various products. This is not advisable. Such methods are ineffective. They can even be dangerous.

Although CoolSculpting relies on "freezing" fat cells, the process is actually more involved than that. During your CoolSculpting treatment, a special applicator will be used to “freeze” fat cells, once that happens, your body will naturally eliminate the dead cells in 1-3 months or more, resulting in a reduction of fat in the treated area.  

At-home fat freezing typically involves the use of ice in an attempt to freeze fat cells. Unfortunately, this do-it-yourself approach only results in dangerously freezing the skin without removing fat cells.

Some risks of attempting to freeze fat at home include:

  • Frostbite

  • Loss of sensation

  • Pain

  • Permanent damage to soft tissues

Many unfortunate individuals who have attempted to freeze fat at home have had to seek medical treatment to repair the damage that they have caused themselves.


Does CoolSculpting involve any side effects?

The FDA cleared CoolSculpting in 2012, initially for treating the flanks and abdomen. In the intervening years, CoolSculpting has been cleared by the FDA for additional body areas. The FDA has confirmed the safety and efficacy of CoolSculpting through clinical trials. No serious side effects were reported during the trial period. In addition, a recent study found that fat freezing does not increase fat levels in the bloodstream and does not harm the liver.


Summary

The more popular that CoolSculpting becomes, the more tempting it is for some individuals to try to replicate the process at home. This is extremely dangerous and poses the risk of severe health problems.


It is always best to seek out the care of a professional CoolSculpting provider when you need to remove stubborn pockets of fat. This will help you avoid the significant health risks posed by do-it-yourself attempts.


Are you curious if CoolSculpting is right for you? If so, reach out to our team for a free consultation. You should also keep in mind that this procedure should not be considered as a substitute for exercise and proper nutrition. But it can help you remove stubborn pockets of fat that have been unresponsive to diet and exercise. As always, for any question or if you want to learn more about Coolsculpting, contact Contour Medspa today.

Caroline Warren