CoolSculpting in Columbus, OH
The ability to remove unwanted body fat without surgery would have seemed like a remote possibility just a few decades ago. Today, however, treatments like CoolSculpting have made it a reality. CoolSculpting offers up to a 24% reduction in the size of fat deposits – all without requiring any anesthesia, incisions, or downtime.
How Does CoolSculpting Work?
CoolSculpting utilizes a specialized non-surgical fat reduction process known as “cryolipolysis.” In the early 2000s, a team of researchers discovered that fat cells respond to the application of intense cold differently than other cells. Cold causes the lipids inside fat cells to break down, while other tissues in the surrounding area remain unharmed. After fat cells are damaged in this way, the body gradually excretes them via the liver and lymphatic system—a completely safe, natural process that doesn’t cause any discomfort. Over a period of about two to four months, treated areas gradually become slimmer as fat cells leave the body.
Like liposuction, CoolSculpting produces permanent results. Once fat cells are destroyed, they will not typically grow back, even if the patient gains weight. The areas you have contoured with CoolSculpting will remain proportionally slimmer than the rest of your body.
CoolSculpting also stimulates the production of collagen, a compound that helps keep the skin strong and smooth. This treatment can therefore tighten moderately loose skin while shrinking fat deposits.
Schedule a Private Consultation
If you’re in the Columbus area and have any questions or wish to schedule a consultation with Dr. Christopher Zochowski, please contact our office today.
What to Expect During Your CoolSculpting Appointment
CoolSculpting appointments usually take between one to three hours, depending on the size of the area being treated. During this time, patients remain awake and can choose to read a book or watch a movie in order to help pass the time.
As the patient relaxes, Dr. Zochowski will apply a special applicator device to his or her skin. This device uses suction to secure a portion of fatty tissue, then apply deep cold to it. The applicator is designed in such a way that it keeps the patient’s skin at a comfortable temperature while this is occurring. CoolSculpting is painless, but some patients report experiencing a mild “burning” sensation (similar to the sensation experienced when bare skin is exposed to chilly weather). After a CoolSculpting session is complete, the patient can return to work and regular daily activities.
Note that most patients need multiple CoolSculpting appointments in order to achieve optimal results. Between two to four sessions are generally recommended.
Does CoolSculpting Have Any Side Effects?
CoolSculpting has been extensively tested and verified as safe by the FDA. Most patients don’t experience any side effects, and this treatment cannot cause scarring, bleeding, or infection. About 10 percent of CoolSculpting patients have reported some mild side effects after having this procedure.
Possible side-effects of CoolSculpting include:
This soreness is typically not serious and can be effectively treated with over the counter pain relievers.
These symptoms can usually be reduced through the application of a cool compress at regular intervals.
Who Makes an Ideal CoolSculpting Candidate?
CoolSculpting is suitable for most patients owing to its safe and noninvasive nature. However, certain health conditions, like bleeding disorders, can make you a poor candidate for even non-surgical treatments. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Zochowski will review your medical history and ask you about any medications and supplements you’re taking. This will clarify whether or not CoolSculpting is the right non-surgical fat reduction procedure for you.
CoolSculpting patients should also be within about 25 pounds of their ideal weight. While using CoolSculpting on an overweight patient will not cause any harm, it can lead to underwhelming results. If you’re currently overweight, you should attempt to lose weight through diet and exercise, then use CoolSculpting to get rid of any lingering problem areas. CoolSculpting is currently approved by the FDA for use on the stomach, back, thighs, arms, flanks, chest, and the area under the chin.
Schedule a CoolSculpting Consultation in Columbus, Ohio
Though CoolSculpting is safe in trained hands, it can still pose risks—or simply fail to produce results—when administered incorrectly. For this reason, it’s important to turn to a board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Zochowski for even non-surgical fat reduction. Dr. Zochowski uses only authentic CoolSculpting technology. For more information on how this treatment can contour your body, contact Zochowski Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to book a consultation in Columbus, Ohio.
