Is CoolSculpting the non-surgical answer to liposuction? We asked Mrs. Panagiota Riga – Dermatologist specializing in cosmetic dermatology and lasers – to share with us the secrets of this revolutionary treatment…

Many of us have stubborn fat despite diet and exercise. CoolSculpting technology uses controlled cooling (Cryolipolysis) to target and kill only these fat cells. CoolSculpting technology safely delivers precisely controlled cooling to gently and effectively target the fat cells underneath the skin. The treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), and then die. Over time, your body naturally processes the fat and eliminates these dead cells, leaving a more sculpted you.

The CoolSculpting fat reduction procedure is specially designed for those who have unwanted fat that resists diet and exercise. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, the CoolSculpting procedure is not a weight loss solution for people who are obese. It is, however, a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. Good candidates have noticeable bulges in certain areas they’d like to get rid of.

The CoolSculpting procedure is not for everyone. You should not have the CoolSculpting procedure if you suffer from cryoglobulinemia or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria. As with any medical procedure, ask your physician if the CoolSculpting procedure is right for you.

Usually, each session lasts about an hour. However, the length of each CoolSculpting session can vary depending on the number of areas being treated during one visit. Many people read, check email, or even take a nap during their sessions.

Once the treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), they die and are naturally processed and eliminated from the body. Once the treated fat cells are gone, they’re gone for good.

As the cooling begins during the first few minutes, you will feel pressure and intense cold. This soon dissipates. Many people read, watch videos, work on their laptop, or even take a nap during their treatment.

The CoolSculpting procedure is FDA-cleared for the flank (love handles), abdomen and thighs. With over one million CoolSculpting procedures worldwide, it is proven to be a safe and effective treatment for non-surgical fat reduction.

During the procedure you may experience deep pulling, tugging, pinching, numbness or discomfort. Following the procedure, typical side effects include temporary numbness, redness, swelling, bruising, firmness, tingling, stinging and pain. Rare side effects may also occur.

Yes, you can. The CoolSculpting procedure is completely non-surgical, so typically you can return to normal activities immediately. Some patients experience redness, minor bruising, tingling, numbness or discomfort in the treated area, but this is temporary and will resolve completely. Usually, patients return to work after their CoolSculpting session is over.

You may start to see changes as quickly as three weeks after your treatment, and will experience the most dramatic results after two months. But your body will still flush out fat cells and will continue doing so for up to four to six months after treatment.