My Experience with CoolSculpting

Coolsculpting Update: One Month Later

I already mentioned this briefly on Twitter and Facebook a few weeks ago, but I wanted to elaborate further in a blog post. I have partnered with Mariposa Medspa on a new non-invasive procedure that reduces fat in specific areas (like upper arms, inner thighs, lower abdomen, bra fat, double chin, outer thighs, love handle area, smaller areas, and other problem areas and areas of the body) called CoolSculpting. “What the,” you say? Well, here is a better explanation (taken from Mariposa.com):

CoolSculpting by ZELTIQ™ is a breakthrough, non-invasive technology that freezes away stubborn fat. CoolSculpting gently targets and cools unwanted fat cells in the selected area to induce a noticeable, natural-looking reduction in fat bulges. Each CoolSculpting procedure results in an average 20% reduction of fat in the treated area.

Unlike most other methods of fat reduction, CoolSculpting involves no needles, surgery, or downtime. You often spend one to two hours of procedure time reading, working on a laptop, or simply relaxing.

Results can be seen as soon as three weeks following treatment, with the best results occurring over the next two to four months.

Like most moms, I have that unwanted large donut-sized fat bulge for a tummy that no amount of exercise can firm (believe me, I’ve tried). I have been very insecure about this bulge for 11 years now (since having my first child) and I even considered a tummy tuck or plastic surgery at one point. Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately in this case), major surgery scares the daylights out of me. I don’t think any mom, or person for that matter, LIKES to be cut open and put back together. The thought of a long recovery wasn’t appealing, either. I’m a mom, I don’t get a day off.

When Mariposa Medspa approached me about the CoolSculpting procedure, I was very interested but skeptical. The idea of reducing my muffin top WITHOUT cutting or major surgery seemed impossible, but after seeing the before and after photos I was convinced. Here is one example.

photo credit: Mariposa Medspa

I had my first consultation appointment last week, to make sure I was a good candidate. After showing Kristy Murrow (Mariposa Spa Manager), my belly, she agreed that I was a good candidate and that I should see great results from the procedure. Of course, I asked the logical questions: Will it hurt? How soon will I see the results? How long does the procedure last? How long is recovery? Do I need to keep a healthy lifestyle or healthy diet afterward? Will I see weight loss? Is this a quick fix with amazing results?

See these answers below (taken from Mariposa.com).

What will CoolSculpting results in my stubborn areas be?

CoolSculpting by ZELTIQ™ can reduce the fat layer by 20%. If your treatment plan calls for a second procedure, an additional 20% reduction can be experienced. Final losses may be more or less, depending on the person.

What happens to the treatment area during the CoolSculpting procedure?

You and your doctor first select the area(s) to be treated. For instance, if your goal is to reduce your love handles, the doctor will position the system on your side. The device then draws the bulge up between two cooling panels. The sensation is a firm tug and pulls – enough of a pull to ensure the selected tissue will be cooled most efficiently.

What does the CoolSculpting Machine feel like? Is it an odd sensation?

As the panels go to work in the first few minutes, you will feel a sensation of intense cold. This soon dissipates. You are then seated comfortably or lying down during the one to two-hour procedure. Many people spend this time reading, working on a laptop, or simply relaxing.

Can I return to normal activities after the CoolSculpting procedure in my areas of concern?

Yes. The CoolSculpting procedure is completely non-invasive, so you can return to normal activities immediately. You may experience redness, minor bruising, tingling, or numbness in the treated area, but this is temporary.

When will I see CoolSculpting results in my trouble areas?

You may start to see changes as quickly as three weeks after their treatment and will experience the most dramatic results after two months. But your body will still be flushing fat cells at that time and will continue doing so for up to four months.

Are the Cool Sculpting results permanent?

During the CoolSculpting procedure, the treated fat cells are eliminated. As long as you maintain your weight with a normal diet and exercise, long-term results should remain stable.

So, my first treatment is scheduled for this Wednesday. Naturally, I’ll be live-tweeting/Facebooking/blogging during the procedure, so you’ll learn firsthand if it’s indeed painless and what specifically happens during the procedure. I will also be available for questions.

Have questions about CoolSculpting? Feel free to leave a comment here and I’ll get back to ya.

Don’t worry, I will share my own before and after photos once I get past the 2-month mark. Wish me luck.

DISCLOSURE: I am receiving the CoolSculpting procedure in exchange for my thoughts and review. My reviews and recommendations are always honest and true. Read Mom Spark’s full disclosure here.

Amy @ Mom Spark

For 16 years, I have been the creator & full-time blogger of Mom Spark. I’ve also created content for numerous outlets such as Good Housekeeping, Better Homes & Gardens, & Huff Post.