How Can Fat Be Removed By Freezing It?
CoolSculpting® is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that harnesses the power of controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat cells without surgery or downtime. For individuals in Edina and Burnsville, MN, who struggle with localized fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise, CoolSculpting® offers a scientifically proven method to sculpt and refine the body. With years of experience, Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz, a board-certified plastic surgeon, provides expert CoolSculpting® treatments at Gryskiewicz Twin Cities Cosmetic Surgery in Minnesota, helping patients achieve their desired body contours safely and effectively.
Understanding the Science Behind CoolSculpting®
CoolSculpting® is based on the principle of cryolipolysis, a process that selectively freezes fat cells while leaving surrounding tissues unharmed. Fat cells are more vulnerable to cold temperatures than skin, muscle, or nerves. When exposed to precise cooling, these fat cells crystallize and undergo apoptosis (natural cell death). Over the following weeks, the body’s lymphatic system gradually removes the destroyed fat cells, leading to a noticeable reduction in fat volume.
This innovative technology was developed after researchers discovered that children who frequently consumed popsicles developed dimples in their cheeks due to fat cell reduction caused by prolonged exposure to cold. This observation led to the scientific advancement of cryolipolysis, now widely used in body plastic surgery. Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz is at the forefront of offering this cutting-edge treatment in Edina and Burnsville, MN, helping patients achieve long-lasting fat reduction.
How Does CoolSculpting® Work?
The CoolSculpting® procedure is performed in a comfortable setting at Gryskiewicz Twin Cities Cosmetic Surgery, where Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz and his team customize treatment plans based on each patient’s unique needs. Here is what patients can expect:
- Consultation & Customization: During your personalized consultation, Dr. Gryskiewicz will evaluate your problem areas, discuss your aesthetic goals, and design a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Whether targeting a single area or multiple locations, your session will be mapped out for optimal fat reduction.
- Targeted Cooling: A specialized applicator is placed on the treatment area, applying controlled cooling to the fat cells beneath the skin. The cooling temperature is precisely set to freeze fat cells while keeping surrounding tissue unharmed. Patients may feel a mild cold sensation at first, but this typically subsides as the area numbs.
- Crystallization & Fat Cell Destruction: The frozen fat cells undergo crystallization, initiating a natural breakdown process that marks them for elimination. This process triggers apoptosis, ensuring the cells die off naturally.
- Gradual Fat Reduction: Over the next 1-3 months, your body will gradually process and remove the destroyed fat cells through the lymphatic system, leading to a more contoured and sculpted physique. As your body flushes out these fat cells, you will notice continued improvements in the treated areas.
- Follow-Up & Potential Additional Sessions: Depending on the volume of fat and your desired results, Dr. Gryskiewicz may recommend multiple sessions. Some patients require only one treatment, while others benefit from follow-up sessions to refine and enhance their outcomes.
What Areas Can Be Treated with CoolSculpting®?
CoolSculpting® is FDA-cleared for treating multiple areas of the body, including:
- Abdomen: The stomach is a common trouble area where stubborn fat accumulates. CoolSculpting® effectively reduces belly fat to create a flatter, more toned midsection.
- Flanks (Love Handles): The sides of the waist, commonly called “love handles,” can be challenging to tone with exercise alone. CoolSculpting® helps slim and contour the waistline.
- Thighs: Both inner and outer thigh fat can be targeted, reducing bulk and creating leaner, more defined legs.
- Under the Chin (Submental Fat): A double chin can make the face appear less defined. CoolSculpting®’s submental treatment minimizes fat under the chin, enhancing jawline contours.
- Back & Bra Fat: Fat that gathers around the back and bra line can cause bulging in clothing. CoolSculpting® smooths these areas, providing a more sculpted appearance.
- Upper Arms: Excess fat on the arms can make sleeveless clothing uncomfortable. CoolSculpting® can refine and tone the upper arms for a more sculpted look.
Benefits of CoolSculpting®
CoolSculpting® offers numerous advantages for individuals seeking non-surgical cosmetic treatments:
- Non-Surgical & No Downtime: Unlike liposuction, CoolSculpting® requires no incisions, anesthesia, or recovery period, allowing patients to resume daily activities immediately.
- Safe & FDA-Cleared: The technology has undergone extensive clinical testing and has been cleared by the FDA as a safe and effective fat reduction treatment.
- Customizable Treatment Plans: Every patient’s body is different, which is why Dr. Gryskiewicz tailors each treatment to the individual’s specific needs and desired outcomes.
- Long-Lasting Results: Once treated fat cells are frozen and eliminated, they do not return. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to preserve results.
- Natural-Looking Contours: Unlike drastic surgical changes, CoolSculpting®’s gradual fat reduction ensures a smooth and natural transition to a slimmer figure.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for CoolSculpting®?
CoolSculpting® is most effective for individuals who:
- Are close to their ideal weight but have stubborn fat pockets that won’t respond to diet and exercise.
- Maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
- Seek a non-surgical alternative to fat reduction without downtime.
- Have realistic expectations about body contouring results and are committed to their aesthetic goals.
What to Expect After CoolSculpting®
After treatment, patients may experience temporary redness, swelling, numbness, or mild discomfort in the treated area. These side effects are typically mild and subside within days to weeks. Visible results develop gradually over 1-3 months as the body eliminates fat cells. Some individuals see significant improvement after a single session, while others may opt for additional treatments for enhanced contouring.
CoolSculpting® FAQs
How long does a CoolSculpting® session take?
- A typical CoolSculpting® session lasts between 35 and 60 minutes per treatment area. The total time depends on the number of areas being treated during your visit.
Does CoolSculpting® hurt?
- Most patients experience a mild cold sensation at the beginning of the procedure, followed by numbness in the treated area. There may be slight tingling or discomfort, but the procedure is generally well tolerated.
How soon will I see results from CoolSculpting®?
- Initial results may start appearing within three weeks, but the most noticeable improvements typically occur between one to three months as the body continues eliminating fat cells.
Are the results of CoolSculpting® permanent?
- Yes, once fat cells are frozen and naturally eliminated from the body, they do not return. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to prevent weight gain in untreated areas.
Can I return to work or exercise after my CoolSculpting® session?
- Yes! CoolSculpting® requires no downtime, so most patients return to work or their normal activities immediately after treatment.
How many CoolSculpting® sessions will I need?
- The number of sessions varies depending on the amount of fat in the treatment area and the patient’s desired outcome. Some individuals see excellent results with just one session, while others may need additional treatments for optimal contouring.
Is CoolSculpting® safe?
- Yes, CoolSculpting® is FDA-cleared and has been extensively studied in clinical trials. When performed by an experienced provider like Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz, it is a safe and effective non-invasive fat reduction treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz for CoolSculpting®?
Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz is a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of expertise in body contouring and aesthetic procedures. His team at Gryskiewicz Twin Cities Cosmetic Surgery provides expert guidance, ensuring patients receive personalized treatments that align with their body goals. By choosing a highly experienced medical professional, patients can feel confident in their results and safety.
Schedule a CoolSculpting® Consultation in Edina & Burnsville, MN
If you’re considering CoolSculpting® to remove stubborn fat and enhance your body contours, schedule a consultation with Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz today. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Gryskiewicz provides expert care to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals with safe, effective treatments.
Contact Gryskiewicz Twin Cities Cosmetic Surgery to learn more about CoolSculpting® in Edina and Burnsville, MN!
Medical References
- Cryolipolysis: A promising nonsurgical technique for localized fat reduction / Wiley Online Library / https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jocd.160391
- Ultraprocessed Foods and Obesity Risk: A Critical Review of the Evidence / National Institutes of Health / https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10334162/2
- Assessing the benefits and drawbacks of cryolipolysis as a body sculpting method / Lippincott Williams & Wilkins / https://journals.lww.com/ijsgh/fulltext/2023/09010/assessing_the_benefits_and_drawbacks_of.45.aspx3
- Meat and Human Health—Current Knowledge and Research Gaps / National Institutes of Health / https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4444424/4
- Cryolipolysis for noninvasive body contouring: clinical efficacy and safety / National Institutes of Health / https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4079633/5
- Nutrition and Wellness Resource guide. A Resource for Teaching the Nutrition and Wellness Core Course Area / Education Resources Information Center / https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED375288.pdf
- Cryolipolysis for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring / National Institutes of Health / https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4444424/