What Does CoolSculpting Really Feel Like?

We all know how CoolSculpting can make you feel after the results have rolled in (or off); confident.

But what does the actual procedure feel like as it’s happening to you?

It may seem like it would feel odd for a machine to freeze away your fat, and here to answer the truth of what this procedure feels like is Dana Baker, ASN, RN.

First, can you describe the process that happens before the actual CoolSculpting procedure?

A complimentary consultation and 360-degree assessment is performed. 

“This allows us to understand exactly what the patient wants and should expect for treatment, cost, results, and more,” Dana explains.

The day of treatment, we will take pictures and map out exactly where we plan to place applicators to achieve the best result possible. 

What does it feel like when the applicators are first placed on?

“When the applicator is first placed the patient should expect to feel a pain-free tugging sensation from the suction of the applicator.”

Overall, this is not a painful procedure by any means, but it may feel a little odd or uncomfortable. After all, it’s not a sensation many people feel regularly.

What does it feel like when you turn on the CoolSculpting machine?

When cooling is initiated the patient will feel the cold almost immediately. 

Dana continues, “For the first 3-5 minutes the area will continue to feel colder and colder. However, just at the point when the cold almost becomes uncomfortable the area will go numb and the patient should be comfortable during the remainder of the treatment time.” 

How long are the applicators left on for?

Most applicators have a treatment time of 35 minutes, however there are a few instances where there will be 45-minute treatments or even 75-minute treatments if treating the outer thighs. 

What happens when you take them off?

Immediately after removing the applicator patients will notice the “stick of butter” effect. 

“The area where the applicator has been removed will be firm, cold, and in the shape of the applicator, which looks like a stick of butter!” 

We will perform a 2-minute massage that is essential for breaking up the fat cells and ensuring the best results. The area is numb at this point, so the massage can feel a little odd or uncomfortable. 

How does it feel for the rest of the day after a CoolSculpting treatment?

A little bit of tenderness is completely normal after treatment. There is no downtime involved and no activity needs to be restricted, so you can continue with your normal life afterward. 

And what about in the days and weeks to follow?

Tenderness and swelling are common in the first week or so after treatment. 

“For some the numbness can linger around for a few weeks after treatment also. Everyone is different though; some patients will have no numbness from day one.” 

In general, how do most people tolerate the process?

The CoolSculpting process is tolerated very well by most patients. 

“Being the world’s #1 non-invasive procedure speaks volumes to this being an overall comfortable experience. I have so many patients that love their results so much they continue to treat additional areas.”

Curious if CoolSculpting is the best way for you to reduce fat? Book an appointment here for a complimentary consult.