Coolsculpting™ FAQs

What is CoolSculpting®?

CoolSculpting® by ZELTIQ® is a new, FDA-cleared procedure that is a non invasive alternative intended to shrink small amounts of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. CoolSculpting® is an in-office procedure that targets, freezes, and permanently eliminates fat cells.

How does CoolSculpting® work?

This fat reduction technique works through a method called Cryolipolysis for the selective targeting and freezing of fat cells in the treatment area. The CoolSculpting® procedure is performed using a cooling applicator / gel pad that is placed on the area to be treated. Treatments last approximately one hour per area treated. There is no downtime and patients may return to their daily routine immediately, including work or their normal fitness routine.

Does it hurt?

CoolSculpting® is a non-invasive procedure requiring no needles or surgical incisions so anesthesia isn’t necessary. A gel pad is placed on the area to be treated and the skin is drawn up between two cooling panels. After feeling some initial pull, tightening and pressure, the area becomes numb and nearly imperceptible to the patient. Cooling begins in the first few minutes where you may feel intense cold which soon fades. Fat cells are frozen and destroyed and ultimately absorbed and eliminated naturally through the body.

What do patients do during the procedure?

Once the session has begun, patients can read, talk on the phone or check emails. Some of Dr. Kornstein’s patients opt to take advantage of facial rejuvenation in the form of injectables during their treatment.

Can CoolSculpting® replace liposuction?

CoolSculpting® is not a replacement for liposuction or other surgical fat reducing procedures. Clinical studies indicate that the typical amount of fat lost through CoolSculpting® in a given area is about 20-25% percent per session. CoolSculpting® is best for those who are already close to their ideal body weight but have small isolated areas of fat such as “love handles” or “muffin top” that they cannot lose through diet and exercise. Results with CoolSculpting® take about 2-4 months to be fully realized. The results are subtle and will not be as dramatic as with liposuction.

How big an area can be done at once?

There are 2 sizes of applicators, small and large. As an example, the large applicator would be suited for upper or lower abdomen areas. The smaller applicator might address “bra strap” fat. You can treat several areas in one session, just not simultaneously. If you had 2 areas to treat, your session would be approximately 2 hours.

Who is a good candidate for CoolSculpting®?

The ideal candidate for CoolSculpting® are men and women who are close to their ideal body weight with small areas of fat they wish to lose that are resistant to diet and exercise. Understanding what CoolSculpting® can and cannot accomplish is important. A consultation with Dr. Kornstein will help determine if this treatment will meet your expectations or if another procedure is indicated to deliver the results you desire.

When can I expect to see results?

With each CoolSculpting® procedure, you can see an average of 20-25% fat reduction in the treated area. After just 3 weeks, some patients begin to see results. After 2 – 4 months you’ll see the permanent improvement as your body continues to flush out the fat cells. You can lose more fat in any given area with additional sessions resulting in a higher percentage of fat loss. Dr. Kornstein will discuss and design a plan that suits you during your consultation.

When can I resume exercise or other activities?

The procedure is completely non-invasive, so you can return to normal activities immediately. Some patients experience redness, minor bruising, tingling, numbness or mild discomfort in the treated area, but this is temporary and will resolve quickly and completely. Often times, patients return to work after the session is over and can exercise later that day.

What does it cost per session?

Considering what can be accomplished non-invasively and permanently, we think the cost is pretty COOL as well! Right now all initial treatments are 20% off our standard fees [one applicator].
Large applicator, for lower abdominal rolls: $1500 –20% =$1200
Small applicator, for love handles, bra strap rolls, back rolls, arms, inner thighs and male breast reduction (Gynecomastia): $750 –20%=$600

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1050 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
(212) 987-1300

1373 Redding Road
Fairfield, CT 06824
(203) 292-9190

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