Does CoolSculpting® Really Work? What To Expect from Your Experience

Does freezing the fat really work? It’s a question we often hear when we consult with people considering CoolSculpting here in Houston. It’s a fair question, too. With so many trendy diets, supplements, and treatments that promise fat reduction without surgery, it’s difficult to sort the real deal from the fads. Fortunately, CoolSculpting is scientifically proven to produce results—and beyond that, it’s become one of the most popular fat reduction treatments in the world.

Wondering if it’s right for you? Read on to learn more about what you can expect when you choose CoolSculpting at Ovation Med Spa.

How does CoolSculpting work?

CoolSculpting works through a process called cryolipolysis, sometimes referred to as “fat freezing.” Here’s how it works:

  1. Controlled cooling brings targeted fat calls down to a precise low temperature that freezes them. Because fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than other tissues such as skin and muscle, this cooling doesn’t cause any harm to the surrounding area.
  2. Once frozen, these fat cells die off in a process called apoptosis.
  3. Your body then naturally metabolizes these cells and flushes them out of the body over the course of a couple of months.

Is CoolSculpting scientifically proven?

CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared for safely and effectively reducing subcutaneous fat, the squishy fat stored between the skin and muscle. In clinical studies, cryolipolysis has been proven to reduce subcutaneous fat by up to 25% with just a single treatment.

The results spoke for themselves before the technology had really even been developed. Researchers noticed children who regularly sucked on popsicles developed dimples in their cheeks. With some testing, study, and innovation, they turned this discovery into a way to safely reduce stubborn body fat without surgery.

What do real patients say about CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting consistently ranks among the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., according to The Aesthetic Society. It also has an 83% “Worth It” rating on RealSelf.com, which is voted on by real, verified patients from around the world.

It’s certainly a favorite among our own patients, too. Here’s what one said about the experience:

“I am so happy with a result! It does work and you don’t need to get done surgery! Safe way to get your body look amazing.”

Read more testimonials from Ovation Med Spa clients on our Reviews page.

What kind of results can I expect after CoolSculpting?

After CoolSculpting, you can expect to see a noticeable reduction in fat in your treated area. You won’t see these results right away, though. They develop gradually over about 1 to 3 months as your body metabolizes the treated fat tissue.

While you’ll likely see clear improvements, it’s important to manage expectations. CoolSculpting results aren’t quite as dramatic as liposuction, and you won’t see the skin tightening associated with other body contouring procedures. If you’re looking for moderate fat reduction without the invasiveness and recovery time of surgery, though, it’s likely right for you.

To see examples of the results you can expect, please visit our CoolSculpting before-and-after photo gallery.

How long does CoolSculpting last?

As long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle and don’t experience any major changes in your weight, you can expect your CoolSculpting results to last indefinitely. The treated fat cells leave your body for good once they’re destroyed. Even if your weight does fluctuate, you’ll gain it more evenly across your body instead of accumulating it in the same stubborn spots.

Learn more about this in our previous blog post.

What is it like to get a CoolSculpting treatment?

CoolSculpting treatments don’t require any anesthetic, needles, surgery, or recovery time. Here’s what you can expect each step of the way:

  • During your treatment, you’ll lie back comfortably as your technician attaches the applicator to your targeted area.
  • You might feel some slight suction as the device pulls the tissue up into the applicator and positions it between the cooling panels.
  • As the cooling begins, you’ll feel an intense cold before the area goes numb. After that, you’ll relax, read, even grab a quick nap for the rest of your treatment.
  • You might notice some temporary tingling, redness, and sensitivity (similar to a “thawing” feeling) as your targeted area warms back up.
  • We perform a Z-Wave massage to enhance your results—more on that below. It’s noisy, but not uncomfortable.
  • You’re free to return to your normal routine!

CoolSculpting treatments take about 35 minutes per area with the CoolAdvantage applicators available at Ovation. DualSculpting (using 2 machines simultaneously) allows us to treat 2 areas at once so you can see twice the results in the same amount of time.

How does the Z-Wave affect CoolSculpting results?

The Z-Wave increases fat reduction by 44% to 60%, which is why we include it in every CoolSculpting package. Using acoustic waves, it creates smoother, more even results and breaks up tissues that cause cellulite and dimpling. It makes your results look that much better without adding any recovery time

Is CoolSculpting right for me?

CoolSculpting is a fantastic option for anyone is who is dedicated to a healthy lifestyle and is looking for a little extra help reducing those stubborn fat deposits that resist diet and exercise. If you have a few frustrating pockets that refuse to slim down, no matter how dedicated you are, CoolSculpting may be your solution.

If you’re unsure or want to learn more, we invite you to visit Ovation for a one-on-one consultation. One of our experienced providers will talk with you in-depth to make sure CoolSculpting is the best option for you. From there, they’ll work with you to develop a custom treatment plan to make sure your experience is as rewarding as possible.

Get in touch with us today to start your CoolSculpting journey here in Houston. Contact us online or call (713) 936-2490. We look forward to hearing from you!