GlobalSpa
03-Feb-2022
Introducing Coolsculpt, a non-surgical advanced technology for body contouring, Dr Priya Puja, Head Medical Advisor (India North & East) at Kaya Limited gets in conversation with GlobalSpa on what makes this technology so successful as she answers some of the frequently asked questions about the new-age treatment.
1. What are the core benefits of Coolsculpting offers?
The most important benefit is the ability to target localized areas of subcutaneous fat (pinchable fat) using the technology of cryolipolysis or fat freezing. It achieves precise cooling into the skin, cold enough to kill fat cells, but not cold enough to damage the skin or other tissues. This makes it selective for fat cells which due to freezing get naturally removed by the body, via a process of “Apoptosis” or programmed cell death. Fat cells which are destroyed do not regenerate; thus reducing the number of fat cells permanently. A single session can effectively reduce around ~20-25% of fat cells, thereby ensuring predictable clinical outcomes.
Being a non-surgical technology, it ensures low risks, lower expenditure and much lower recovery time, and no risk of scarring. The procedure is easy and painless with the majority of people only experiencing minimal discomfort or sensations like tugging or mild aching. There is practically no downtime and leads to complete recovery. Noticeable results are seen as early as 8-12 weeks.
It is a versatile treatment with the ability to treat multiple areas like double chin, stomach, flanks, thighs, upper arms, bra fat, and back fat. The efficacy and safety are ensured due to its FDA clearance in 2010.
2. What can one expect post CoolSculpting and how long do the effects last for?
Following the procedure, a gradual reduction in the thickness of the fat layer takes place. One can start seeing a change as early as 3 weeks after coolsculpting but the most dramatic results are experienced after 2-3 months of the procedure. The body continues to process the injured fat cells from the area for approximately 4 months after the procedure. For people having the need, a second session can be planned after 4-6 weeks of the first session. The assessment for the same should be done by a trained physician who assesses the requirement and sets the correct expectation.
The results last indefinitely as it kills the fat cells which do not regenerate. Here it is important to understand that if there is a gain in weight after the treatment, the extra fat is stored in other locations of the body and spares the treated area.
3. What would you say is the best time or age for choosing this procedure? Are there any must-dos one should keep in mind?
Coolsculpt is FDA approved for treating localized pockets of pinchable fat in the adult population which means it can be taken by anyone 18 years of age and above based on clinical trial data. It is a safe and effective procedure for people of virtually all above 18 years but generally speaking anyone who is healthy, active, and has a mild to moderate amount of stubborn fat which does not respond to diet and exercise are ideal candidate for Coolsculpt.
Drinking lots of water and avoiding aggressive exercise shortens the post-procedure recovery and is advisable. Patients should be committed to maintaining a stable weight post-treatment or the results can be masked by a gain in fat in some other area. Also, one should have a realistic expectation of the outcome.
4. Lastly, are there any common misconceptions about the procedure you would suggest applicants to ward off?
The most common misconception is that Coolsculpt is for weight loss. It is important to understand that Coolsculpt is not a weight-loss tool and can target localized, stubborn fat depots only. So, the person should make sure that he/she is the right candidate for the procedure, which can be done by a certified physician, who also rules out any specific medical condition, which may make the person unfit for the procedure.
Other common misconceptions are:
1. It is only for the stomach: Other areas like double chin, back fat, bra fat, banana rolls, thighs, upper arms are other areas that can be treated.
2. We can see instant results: It takes 2-3 months to see results.
3. It’s painful: Only minimal discomfort is experienced.
4. We won't gain weight after treatment: Quite possible to gain weight if calorie intake is more than output.
To summarize, Coolsculpt is a non-invasive, effective and safe tool to get rid of the resistant bulges and can help achieve a sculpted body.
