CoolSculpting is a simple (and painless) noninvasive procedure that destroys fat cells by freezing them. The treatment is straightforward, with no needles, incisions, or anesthesia. So, there isn’t much you need to do to prepare for your session.
But you should keep a few things in mind as you near your appointment.
How to Prepare for CoolSculpting
Prepare your Skin.
Because the procedure involves suctions and continual massaging, your skin needs to be as healthy and intact as possible to reduce potential irritation.
- Moisturize your skin weeks in advance to smooth out dryness for your future treatment.
- Avoid tanning and sunburns. (Think about a suction on a fresh burn — ouch!)
- Be mindful of physical activities that could cause scrapes, cuts, and bruises. (Your appointment could be delayed if your skin is too damaged.)
- Shave any body hair near and around the area that will be treated.
- Clean and remove any lotion from your skin directly before the treatment.
Arrive Prepared.
CoolSculpting treatments can last hours, so we advise you to eat a light meal or snack before and, of course, stay hydrated. Hydrating also helps the body remove toxins.
Wear something comfy. Loose and comfortable clothes that are gentle on the skin are preferred. Keep in mind that you may get gel on your undergarments — consider bringing a change of clothes.
Bring something to occupy your time. Again, you’ll be in a treatment bed for a couple of hours. Consider bringing headphones, a book, or think about bingeing your favorite shows while you are in your session.
What Not to do to Prepare for Your CoolSculpting Treatment:
1. Don’t take medication/supplements that are considered blood thinners.
Think anti-inflammatories, like aspirin or Advil. These should be avoided for at least one week before the procedure, as it increases your risk of bruising.
2. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.
Unfortunately, smoking can slow your recovery process (and delay the results) so avoid smoking for at least a week before your session.
Likewise, avoiding caffeine for two hours pre/post-treatment and alcohol an entire 24 hours before is recommended. Plan your social calendar accordingly.
What to do After CoolSculpting
Have Patience.
As cliché as it sounds, all good things take time! You may see a difference in your body as early as two weeks, but your full results will take time, with the average results visible in three to four months.
However, you’ll continue to excrete fat cells for up to three to six months after the procedures. Remember to take targeted photos of your progress throughout the process to see those before and after shots!
Stay active and healthy.
Your lifestyle and habits are contributing factors to your long-term success.The science is there; CoolSculpting does work! But your overall results will depend on you. Maintaining a healthy diet of vegetables, proteins, whole grains, and fruits, and exercising often will enhance your results!
Consider additional treatments.
After allowing your body time to heal (and seeing those results!), you may want to consider additional sessions.
No, you won’t need follow-up treatments for the previously treated area, but you should consider if there are other areas, you would like to treat.
What Not to do After CoolSculpting
Don’t overdo it.
Though noninvasive, keep in mind your body just went through a strenuous procedure and needs time to recover. You may be sore and should take time to rest. Pause the gym. You don’t want to irritate and ignite more soreness! Be gentle with your skin. When showering, take extra care around the affected area.
Don’t expect results immediately.
We already touched on this, but mentally prepare yourself to trust the process, and give your body time to heal.
Possible Coolsculpting Side Effects
Thankfully, the side effects of CoolSculpting are minimal. But there are a few things you should be aware of post-treatment.
Though rare, during the first two weeks, you may experience the following Coolsculpting side effects:
- Tingling
- Deep itching
- Tender to touch
- Numbness
- Muscle spasms
- Aching and or soreness
After four weeks, get ready to start seeing the positive side effects. For up to four months, your body will continue to process the injured fat cells into your body naturally.
Colorado Skin & Vein has been a leader for the past 16 years, offering not only CoolSculpting but Full Body, Face, Vein Treatments, Aesthetic Services, and Laser Medicine services. If you are in the Denver area, request a consultation with one of our providers today.
