CoolSculpting: Does it work and is it safe?

CoolSculpting is a noninvasive procedure, meaning it does not involve cuts, anesthesia, or instruments entering the body. It is the most popular noninvasive body sculpting technique.

CoolScuplting targets localized fat that is challenging to remove through diet and exercise. It carries fewer risks than traditional fat reduction methods such as liposuction. However, while it is mostly safe, it is important for people to be aware of some potential side effects.

This article takes an in-depth look at CoolSculpting, including how it works, its effectiveness, cost, and the procedure’s side effects and risks.

CoolSculpting is a branded form of fat reduction method called cryolipolysis. It has Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval.

As with other forms of cryolipolysis, it uses freezing temperatures to break down fat cells or adipocytes. Fat cells are more affected by cold temperatures than other cells. This means that the cold does not damage other cells, such as the skin or underlying tissue.

During the procedure, the practitioner vacuums the skin above the area of fatty tissue into an applicator that cools the fat cells. The cold temperatures numb the site, and some people report feeling a cooling sensation.

Most CoolSculpting procedures take around 35 to 75 minutes, depending on the area a person wishes to target. There is no downtime because there is no damage to the skin or tissue.

Some people report soreness at the site of CoolSculpting, similar to the feeling after an intense workout or minor muscle injury. Others report stinging, firmness, mild discoloration, swelling, and itchiness.

After the procedure, it may take around 1 to 6 months for the fat cells to leave a person’s body. In that time, the area of fat will decrease by an average of 20%.

According to CoolSculpting, the average cost of treatment is $3,200. However, areas that require small applicators, such as the chin and jaw, cost less.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the national average cost for noninvasive fat reduction procedures is $1,157.

Prices vary depending on the number of treatments and the areas an individual wants to treat: The bigger the area, the more expensive the treatment is.

It is also sensible to consider the number of treatments necessary. Areas with more fat may require more treatments. Factors such as geographic location and the skill of the treatment provider may also influence the cost.

CoolSculpting is a cosmetic procedure that does not treat an underlying health condition, so insurance does not typically cover the costs.

CoolSculpting and other forms of cryolipolysis have a high success and satisfaction rate.

CoolSculpting effectively removes areas with stubborn fat. The body removes the frozen and broken down fat tissues within 1 to 6 months.

The procedure also delivers lasting results. It destroys fat cells, so they will not return.

However, people should note that the treatment’s effects only apply to the targeted areas and do not tighten the skin.

Moreover, the procedure does not work for everyone. It works best on people near the ideal body weight for their build with pinchable fat on stubborn areas. The procedure is not suitable for people with a body mass index (BMI) over 30. Liposuction may be a more suitable option for people with a higher BMI.

CoolSculpting targets localized areas of fat and is not a weight-loss treatment.

A person who continues with an unhealthy diet and remains sedentary while undergoing CoolSculpting can expect less fat reduction.

A 2023 review concluded that cryolipolysis is a relatively safe and effective treatment for removing areas of fat.

A 2021 study evaluated the effects of one CoolSculpting treatment on 30 female participants. Six months after their treatment, the average reduction in fat around the abdomen was 46.6%. There was also evidence of tightened skin in the treatment area, but more research is necessary to understand whether cryolipolysis can help tighten the skin.

A 2020 study found that cryolipolysis that uses new and better-fitting applicators is safe and effective in quickly reducing excess fat in various body areas.

Cryolipolysis is a noninvasive procedure that does not require cuts, anesthesia, or medications that could cause an allergic reaction. This means that the rate of complications and side effects is lower than with more invasive procedures, such as liposuction.

A 2022 analysis looked at adverse events related to noninvasive body contouring devices. The most common adverse side effect of cryolipolysis was paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), which happens when fat cells expand and harden instead of shrinking, causing a noticeable, enlarged mass in the treated area.

Other complications may include:

• swelling
• bruising
• sensitivity
• skin discoloration
• localized pain
• burns and blisters
• tissue death
• cold panniculitis — inflammation of the subcutaneous fat layer

There are other types of fat reduction methods aside from cryolipolysis.

For people who want more rapid results in a single treatment, liposuction may be a better option. However, it is more invasive and carries a much higher risk of complications than cryolipolysis.

Kybella is a branded form of injection lipolysis. It uses an injection of deoxycholic acid to destroy submental fat, which is fat under the chin. Deoxycholic acid is a synthetic form of a naturally occurring enzyme that breaks down fat in the body.

SculpSure is another noninvasive fat reduction method. It uses laser lipolysis or heat-based laser to “melt” fat cells.

Vanquish is a type of radiofrequency lipolysis that uses radio waves to kill fat cells. A 2020 study found that Vanquish effectively reduces a person’s fat, BMI, and abdominal circumference.

CoolSculpting is a brand name for cryolipolysis, a noninvasive method for reducing localized fat. It is typically safe, although side effects, such as PAH, can occur.

CoolSculpting is not suitable for people with a BMI over 30 and does not address the underlying cause of unwanted fat.

CoolSculpting is just one option for removing fat. A person should discuss options for fat removal with a doctor and the benefits and risks of these procedures, which may vary between individuals.