Although CoolSculpting offers a revolutionary approach to nonsurgical fat reduction, the best results often require more than just undergoing the treatment. To help you set yourself up for success, we have put together this recovery guide on enhancing your CoolSculpting results.
Step 1: Get Familiar With CoolSculpting Side Effects
CoolSculpting is a noninvasive, nonsurgical procedure that is generally well-tolerated. However, like any aesthetic medical procedure, it may come with some temporary side effects, including redness, swelling, bruising, numbness, and tingling at the treatment site.
Understanding what to expect before your session and how long these symptoms may last (usually only a few days) can help you prepare for recovery.
Step 2: Follow Post-Treatment Instructions
Your CoolSculpting provider will give you specific instructions to guide you through the recovery process. While there is no downtime following the procedure, your body still needs time to metabolize the fat cells and work through any side effects or discomfort. These instructions may include postponing strenuous exercise, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and avoiding overly hot or cold water when bathing.
Step 3: Embrace Post-Treatment Massage
A massage after CoolSculpting can yield wonderful benefits, not just during the immediate recovery period but also as your slimmer shape is revealed over time. Gentle massaging of the treated area can:
- Promote lymphatic drainage
- Facilitate breakdown of the damaged fat cells
- Reduce swelling
- Accelerate the recovery process
There is also clinical evidence to support the use of massage in enhancing CoolSculpting results. A 2013 study discovered fat reduction was nearly 70% greater when a 2-minute post-treatment massage was incorporated. Keep in mind that the massage could be a bit uncomfortable.
Step 4: Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Hydration is key to supporting the body’s natural healing processes and encouraging lymphatic drainage. Drinking plenty of water after your session promotes healthy circulation, which aids in flushing out toxins and reducing swelling. Similarly, focusing on your body’s nutritional needs through a balanced diet can also support your recovery.
Step 5: Get Moving
Just like your fluid intake, light exercise promotes circulation and healing and improves post-treatment swelling and discomfort. While you’ll want to hold off on doing anything too strenuous, walking or gentle stretches can be a great addition to your CoolSculpting recovery tool kit.
Step 6: Be Patient
While CoolSculpting significantly reduces fat, it may take several weeks for you to see the outcome of your treatment. Your body needs time to eliminate the treated fat cells naturally, and you may need more than one session to achieve your ideal look. Trust the process and commit to maintaining a healthy lifestyle to enjoy your results for years to come.
Step 7: Consider Complementary Procedures
To further enhance your results, you may want to discuss adding other procedures to your personalized treatment plan. KYBELLA® injections under the chin can further reduce submental fullness if you are looking to sculpt your jawline. You can read more about double chin treatments in our related blog post.
Get the Most Out of Your CoolSculpting Treatment
When it comes to CoolSculpting results, recovery is nearly as important as the treatment itself. Following the steps outlined in this post and working closely with your provider will ensure you get the best outcome possible.
To get started with nonsurgical body contouring at our CoolSculpting-certified practice, please request a consultation online or call our office at (419) 534-6551.
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