Being overweight is a problem for men and women of all ages. We’re not talking about a couple of pounds but situations in which the extra weight is notable not just to the individual but to others. While there is no shame in carrying extra weight – it can be as a result of medical conditions, for example – for many people it becomes embarrassing. This can lead to them avoiding social situations, becoming stressed or depressed, and also adding a burden on the heart.

Dieting is a great way of losing that extra weight. But what if you have tried dieting and exercise and you have not succeeded? That’s when professional help should be sought, and there is plenty of choice in terms of medical weight loss routines. One innovative method we are going to talk about is CoolSculpting. What is CoolSculpting and why is this procedure getting a lot of attention?

What is CoolSculpting?

If you search coolsculpting near me you’ll find some interesting information about this exciting and successful process. According to dermatologist Dr. Pamela Silva from Slim Sonic Tech, CoolSculpting is a procedure that uses specially made equipment to freeze the fat cells in the area of the body with excess fat. It is a non-surgical procedure that does not even use needles. The cooling equipment targets specific areas of the body where there are notable bulges.

The procedure – known scientifically as cryolipolysis – uses paddles that are placed on the skin in the area where there is excess fat. They are left there for around half an hour to an hour and freeze the fat but leave the skin untouched. The process came about when scientists began studying the effect of frostbite on fat cells.

As fat freezes at a higher temperature than skin, the result is destroyed fat cells in the area concerned. We’ll explain where the fat goes later, but first, let’s look at who may be a good candidate for the CoolSculpting procedure.

Who is a Candidate for CoolSculpting?

The CoolSculpting procedure is not for everyone, and your initial consultation will determine whether it is the right treatment for you. If you are obese then it is not the process that you should undertake, and your consultant will advise as to an alternative method of weight loss.

A good candidate will meet the following criteria:

• Have notable bulges where there is excess fat.
• Have tried dieting to no effect.
• Be willing to alter any lifestyle habits such as drinking, smoking, and overeating that can have an effect on weight gain.
• Have a reasonable expectation of the results.

Persons who should not undergo this procedure are those who are clinically obese and who suffer from certain conditions that the consultant will ask about.

Coolsculpting is most often used to remove excess fat in the following areas of the body:

• Under the chin and jawline
• Thighs
• Belly
• Back and sides
• Under the butt
• Along the bra line
• Upper arm

So, what happens during the CoolSculpting procedure?

What to Expect During the CoolSculpting Procedure

As with most popular cosmetic procedures, there are no incisions needed, and the CoolSculpting routine is entirely non-invasive. You will feel cold from the paddles that are placed upon the area where the fat cells are to be destroyed. It is a strange sensation that may be uncomfortable, and rest assured the cooling equipment has safety features that ensure it does not get too cold.

The cold feeling should in fact fade during the treatment as your body becomes used to it, and after the procedure, the treated area will be massaged, and you may feel a strange tingling sensation at this point. Now onto the interesting bit: we know that the CoolSculpting routine freezes and destroys the fat cells, but where does the fat go?

Where Does the Fat Go During CoolSculpting?

Dead cells in the body are removed over time by your immune system. It is easy to forget what a clever and complex ‘machine’ the human body is. The dead fat cells are crystallized. They will be moved through the body and expelled via the natural method – in your urine.

You won’t notice this happening, but you will notice the difference. Once the fat cells have been ejected by your body they are gone, forever. The results will start to show in two to four months, and you may still be ejecting dead fat cells six months after the procedure.

CoolSculpting is therefore a permanent solution to those awkward and notable areas of fat that many of us suffer from overtime. Let’s finish by looking at the possible risks with the CoolSculpting procedure and any side effects you may experience.

What are the Risks with CoolSculpting?

Being a non-invasive routine and knowing the limited risks with such procedures it makes sense that CoolSculpting is considered a safe procedure and is fully licensed and approved. In rare cases, you may experience such as late-onset pain, possible hernia, and sensations such as freeze burn. These will subside over time.

Common side effects include persistent numbness in the treated area that can last for several weeks, redness and possible swelling, and general tenderness to the area. You may also experience itching in the treated area. All of these are minor effects that will fade with time, and your consultant will discuss the risks with you. Apart from the above odd sensations, what can you expect after the CoolSculpting procedure?

What to Expect after the CoolSculpting Procedure

In a couple of months, as the fat cells begin to be expelled, you will notice a difference in the treated area. Immediately afterward most patients resume a normal life. Depending on the sensitivity of the area that has been treated, patients may return to work immediately following a CoolSculpting treatment. Usually, the procedure is a one-off, but should you have several areas that need attention your consultant will put together a suitable treatment plan for you. If CoolSculpting is something you are interested in, get in touch with your local clinic and arrange a consultation.