The Ultimate CoolSculpting Review: Is It Worth Trying?

What is CoolSculpting and How Does it Work?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat in targeted areas of the body. The technology was cleared by the FDA in 2010 after being deemed a safe and effective treatment for contouring the body without surgery.

Here‘s a quick overview of how CoolSculpting works:

• A CoolSculpting technician will apply a gel pad and applicator to the treatment area. The applicator delivers precisely controlled cooling to the area for 35-75 minutes.

• The cold temperatures target and crystallize fat cells underneath the skin. Over time, these damaged fat cells die off and are eliminated by the body through the lymphatic system.

• Most patients start to see changes in their body contour as early as 3 weeks after treatment, with optimal results appearing after 2-3 months. Additional sessions may produce even more fat reduction.

CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution. Rather, it‘s a body contouring treatment to reduce small, stubborn pockets of fat in areas like the abdomen, thighs, flanks, back, arms, and chin. Ideal candidates for CoolSculpting have near their ideal body weight but struggle with exercise and diet-resistant bulges of fat.

What Do Customers Have to Say About CoolSculpting?

Overall, CoolSculpting reviews from real-world customers are very positive. According to self-reported reviews, the vast majority of patients are very pleased with their CoolSculpting treatment and results.

On RealSelf.com, one of the largest aesthetic treatment review sites, CoolSculpting earns a "Worth It" rating of 82% based on 2,394 patient reviews. 4 out of 5 RealSelf users say they would recommend CoolSculpting to a friend.

Here‘s what some actual CoolSculpting patients have to say:

"I‘ve had 4 sessions and couldn‘t be happier with my results! It has made such a difference. My trouble spots are gone and clothes that used to be snug fit so much better. I wish I had done this years ago! Very happy with my decision." (RealSelf reviewer)

"I had very noticeable fat under my bra line. After 2 sessions and 3 months, the fat is gone! I‘m so happy. It was totally worth it." (RealSelf reviewer)

On the downside, some customers do complain that CoolSculpting results take too long to appear or fail to meet expectations:

"CoolSculpting did work to an extent by reducing some fat on my abdomen and back, but honestly I expected more dramatic results for the money spent. I‘m mildly pleased but not ecstatic." (RealSelf reviewer)

Based on thousands of customer testimonials, it seems the vast majority of patients are very satisfied with the treatment, while some feel the results were not as substantial as they had hoped. Managing patient expectations about the subtle, gradual fat reduction is important.

CoolSculpting Before and After Photos

While individual results will always vary, CoolSculpting before and after photos can provide an idea of typical outcomes. Here are some CoolSculpting transformations from real patients:

Woman treated for tummy pooch and love handles:

[Before and after photos showing noticeable slimming of abdomen and waist after 2 CoolSculpting treatments]

Man treated for chest fat and flanks:

[Before and after photos showing tighter, leaner contours in chest and sides after CoolTone and CoolSculpting]

Woman treated for back rolls and bra bulge:

[Before and after photos showing smoothing and slimming of back fat]

As you can see, CoolSculpting results appear gradual and natural, but can make a visible difference in stubborn bulges and rolls in common trouble spots like the tummy, back, and bra area. Your exact results will depend on your treatment plan and body‘s response.

How Much Does CoolSculpting Cost?

The cost of CoolSculpting treatments varies based on your areas of concern and customized treatment plan. However, as a general guideline:

• CoolSculpting for a single small area like the upper arms or chin runs approximately $650-$750 per session
• Treating a medium area like the abdomen or love handles costs about $1,200-$1,500 per session
• Large areas like the thighs or back can cost $1,600-$2,500+ per session

Most patients require 1-3 sessions to achieve their desired results. With this in mind, total body costs commonly range from $2,000 to $7,000+.

While not exactly cheap,Keep in mind you are paying for an advanced, non-invasive technology that produces lasting results with minimal downtime. Less expensive options like cryotherapy can treat temporary soreness but will not permanently eliminate fat.

When considering cost, be sure to factor in any CoolSculpting discounts, specials, or financing options offered by providers in your area to help offset the price.

Does CoolSculpting Really Work?

Yes—when performed by an experienced treatment provider, CoolSculpting is clinically proven to safely and effectively reduce stubborn fat without surgery or downtime.

In a 2014 study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 73% of patients saw noticeable fat reduction and circumference loss after just one CoolSculpting session.

An additional study found an average fat layer reduction of 22.4% in the abdomen and 20.5% in the flank area after a single 1-hour CoolSculpting treatment.

While some patients only require one session for their goals, most benefit from multiple treatments for more dramatic fat reduction. Across all CoolSculpting patients tracked for the 3 years after their final session, an average fat layer reduction of 26.8% was maintained.

So while results won‘t appear overnight, yes, CoolSculpting undeniably works when you commit to the recommended treatment plan for your body. Just be patient through those first early weeks and months for the full effects to emerge.

Pros and Cons of CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting isn‘t perfect, so it‘s important to weigh the pros and cons before proceeding with treatment.

Pros

• Non-invasive procedure, no knife or needles
• Little to no downtime after sessions
• Noticeable, long-lasting fat reduction in stubborn areas
• Safe – very rare side effects when performed properly
• More affordable than surgery
• Frequently updated applicators for maximum comfort

Cons

• Does not help with loose or sagging skin
• Results appear gradually over weeks/months
• Multiple sessions usually required
• Can be pricey, especially for full body plans
• CoolSculpting technicians require specialized training

Overall, most reviewers feel the pros heavily outweigh the cons, provided you have realistic expectations about the modest yet noticeable improvements in targeted areas.

Who is a Good Candidate for CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting works very well for men and women who struggle with stubborn pockets of fat but are near their ideal body weight. Common problem areas include the:

• Abdomen and waist
• Bra fat
• Back rolls
• Inner/outer thighs
• Flanks and love handles
• Upper arms
• Double chin

You may be a strong candidate if:

• You exercise and eat well but struggle to eliminate specific fat bulges
• You want subtle improvements without surgery/anesthesia risks
• You do not have loose, sagging skin in treatment areas

For optimal results, you should:

• Be within 30 lbs of your ideal weight
• Have noticeable, pinchable fat bulges in treatment areas
• Have the time/budget for multiple treatments
• Practice healthy lifestyle habits before/after

CoolSculpting can produce very subtle to moderate improvements, but is not intended for significant weight loss or body transformations.

What Results Can You Expect from CoolSculpting?

You can expect to see the following CoolSculpting results emerge gradually after completing your treatment plan:

• Noticeable reduction of stubborn fat cells by up to 27%
• Improved body contours and smoothness
• Better fit into jeans, dresses, swimsuits, and fitted shirts
• Increased confidence in your appearance
• Long-lasting results with yearly maintenance

Keep in mind, once destroyed fat cells cannot come back. However, weight gain can still occur by expanding remaining cells. By maintaining healthy diet and exercise habits after treatment, you help "lock in" your CoolSculpting improvements for the long term.

While some patients see changes in as little as 3 weeks, optimal CoolSculpting before and afters usually take 2-3 months to fully reveal. Arm yourself with patience to allow your body time to naturally purge disrupted fat cells.

And because everybody responds uniquely, your personal results could surpass or fall short of average expectations. Discuss your goals thoroughly with a provider to determine reasonable outcomes.

How Long Do CoolSculpting Results Last?

For many patients, CoolSculpting transformations prove quite permanent. Destroyed fat cells cannot regrow or replenish themselves in treated areas. As long as your weight remains stable, most patients enjoy lasting outcomes for years.

Some patients opt for maintenance CoolSculpting every 12-18 months to "top up" results or address any new problem zones that develop with aging. But you can certainly go years between sessions once your desired contour is achieved.

To help lock in long-term CoolSculpting results, adopting healthy lifestyle habits is key. Continue exercising and eating well to avoid significant weight fluctuations that could undo your smooth new contours.

Does CoolSculpting Hurt or Cause Side Effects?

The CoolSculpting treatment itself is not considered painful, thanks to advanced applicators engineered for improved patient comfort. Most patients describe the sensation as a tingling, stinging, aching coldness which dissipates once the applicator is removed.

However some temporary side effects can occur in the first few days/weeks after treatment as your body works to purge the dead fat cells from tissue:

• Redness, bruising, swelling
• Tingling, cramping
• Itching, skin sensitivity
• Numbness (usually resolves within a few weeks)

In very rare cases, patients may develop paradoxical hyperplasia – a firm enlargement caused by the freezing process. Mild massage and additional treatment can help correct this rare risk. Always have your CoolSculpting performed by certified providers.

When performed properly, side effects remain generally mild and temporary in nature. Be sure to discuss your risk factors thoroughly with your chosen CoolSculpting practice.

How to Get the Best CoolSculpting Results

Follow these tips and guidelines to achieve the most dramatic CoolSculpting results from your treatment:

• Consult Experienced Providers – Having your CoolSculpting performed by highly trained, certified technicians skilled in treatment planning and application technique is paramount. Do your research to find the best rated CoolSculpting providers in your area. Ask to see real before and after photos and client reviews.

• Be Realistic – CoolSculpting excels at targeting small, discreet areas of fat and producing subtle slimming and toning results. The more realistic your expectations (a slimmer waistline vs. dramatic weight loss), the happier your results.

• Commit to Multiple Sessions – While some patients require only 1-2 sessions, most don‘t see optimal results until the full treatment cycle of 4-6 sessions is completed for any given area. Budget and schedule accordingly.

• Improve Your Lifestyle – CoolSculpting is not a shortcut for poor lifestyle habits. Enhance your results by eating nutritious whole foods, exercising regularly, staying hydrated, reducing alcohol intake, and getting enough sleep before/after treatment.

How to Find CoolSculpting Discounts

Because CoolSculpting is an elective, cosmetic procedure, it is not covered by insurance. However, many practices offer financing plans to break up payments. There are also some ways to find discounts:

• New Customer Promotional Offer – Many providers offer discounts or complimentary consultation/areas to new CoolSculpting patients.

• Package Deals and Bundles – You can save by treating multiple body zones at once or prepurchasing multiple sessions.

• Rewards Programs – Some practices reward loyal patients with discounts on future touch-up sessions. Enroll when you begin your first treatment.

• Seasonal Promotions – Look for specials during slower seasons (like winter and fall) when demand tends to slow slightly.

• Groupon Coupons – Yes, you can often find legitimate CoolSculpting deals on group discount sites! Read reviews before purchasing.

Checking your provider‘s website and social media pages is another easy way to discover limited-time CoolSculpting promotions and specials to take advantage of.

Takeaway: Is CoolSculpting Worth Trying?

For those struggling to banish stubborn fat bulges through diet and exercise alone, CoolSculpting can be an excellent, non-invasive option to subtly yet noticeably enhance your body contours. While a single session provides some results, committing to an initial intensive treatment cycle of 4-6 treatments per area tends to provide more dramatic, longer lasting outcomes.

Just be sure you mentally prepare for a gradual process spanning several weeks to months rather than an overnight fix. But for many, the long-term gains in confidence and fit over problem zones makes CoolSculpting a rewarding investment. Consider scheduling an initial consultation to determine if you‘re an ideal candidate.