Stubborn fat around the love handles, extra tummy rolls and chunky inner thighs are common complaints we receive from our Sydney clients who are interested in the CoolSculpting procedure.

We’re sure you firstly want to know if fat freezing actually works and what can you expect from a CoolSculpting treatment. As a non-surgical treatment, also clients often ask whether it’s worth it or should they consider another fat reduction procedure.

Does CoolSculpting work to reduce fat cells?

CoolSculpting, a non-surgical fat reduction procedure, has been approved by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) for the reduction of fat cells under the skin through a process known as cryolipolysis. It is an alternative to more invasive procedures like liposuction or a tummy tuck

CoolSculpting isn’t a new procedure with Harvard University researchers discovering the fat freezing technology over a decade ago. When studying the effects of cryolipolysis, the team found stubborn pockets of fat cells die when frozen and are naturally eliminated from the body via the lymphatic system. This process takes several weeks with full results revealed typically within three months after the fat freezing treatment.

A 2009 study which assessed the clinical effectiveness of cryolipolysis, found that the technique reduced the fat layer of the treatment area by as much as 25%. The risks of the cosmetic procedure are minimal and as a day procedure, patients can resume their usual activities with no downtime required.

Following its FDA approval in 2010, CoolSculpting treatments have seen a significant increase in popularity in the United States.

Am I a good candidate for CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is a great option for people who have stubborn fat cells and don’t want to undergo a surgical fat removal procedure. Keep in mind, the average amount of fat reduction in one treatment area with fat freezing is much less than that of more invasive treatments such as Liposuction.

Depending on how much fat you want to be removed and from how many problem areas, you may need more than one CoolSculpting treatment. At Cosmos Aesthetics in Sydney, we suggest for optimal results 2-3 treatments are often required.

CoolSculpting can treat unwanted fat cells in a number of targeted areas including:

  • Love handles
  • Tummy
  • Hips
  • Waits
  • Inner thighs and outer thighs
  • Back
  • Lower arms and upper arms
  • Banana roll
  • Double chin

It’s worth noting, while CoolSculpting is effective at getting rid of excess fat cells, it does not resolve cellulite. The treatment also isn’t a weight loss solution. While the frozen fat cells are destroyed and eliminated by the body, it doesn’t prevent fat cells developing if you gain weight in the future. Ideally, you’ll have tried exercise and a healthy diet to lose weight before the procedure and you’re committed to keeping up these healthy habits post-treatment.

Is the CoolSculpting treatment worth it?

There are many benefits of a CoolSculpting that make the treatment worthwhile, especially when compared to some of the surgical fat reduction options. Here are just a few to consider:

  • The results of CoolSculpting can vary between individuals, and long-term outcomes depend on various factors including lifestyle and diet
  • The procedure doesn’t require you to go under the knife
  • It is non-invasive
  • It requires no downtime to recovery
  • It’s relatively painless

As it is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment, CoolSculpting is also considered very safe. Some people may experience slight redness or numbness in the treated area due to the applicator delivering freezing temperatures. Other common side effects seen post-treatment are light, but temporary swelling or bruising.