Coolsculpting Update – One Month Later and Cramping Pain
Last month, I shared about my upcoming coolsculpting procedure. Now I’m back with an update, one month later!
THE PROCEDURE
I’m sure the first thing you will want to know is if the procedure hurt or not, right? Well, hurt, no, but it was a little uncomfortable at first. There was intense pulling of the treated area for about 5 minutes, then numbness took over from the cooling process. Once it was numb, there wasn’t any pain. I was actually tweeting and updating on Facebook during the treatment!
I had three areas treated on my stomach, with one hour per treatment, so I was at Mariposa Med Spa for three hours. During the treatments, I was able to work on my laptop, listen to music, and relax. The staff even brought me coffee and water to my room. 🙂
RECOVERY
After the treatment, my belly was red, swollen, and numb, but I was able to drive home just fine. A few hours later, I was pretty sore, very swollen, numb in some areas, and had trouble bending over and reaching. The next 3-4 days, it was pretty much the same as far as soreness and numbness.
Once I reached day 5 or so, I started having stomach muscle cramping, much like labor contractions. Once the cramping became non-stop and pretty uncomfortable, I called Mariposa and they suggested an OTC pain reliever to relieve the pain. When that didn’t seem to do the trick, I tried applying a heating pad to my stomach, but that seemed to aggravate the area even more. I then attempted a makeshift ice pack and that made a world of difference. I ended up purchasing a couple of large ice packs with ice pack belts that I could wear while resuming regular daily activities. (I would alternate each pack so I always had one ready to wear) I had the stomach cramping until Day 12 or so, but this is not the norm. In fact, of the 60 or more patients that Mariposa Med Spa has treated, only around 3 have had severe cramping as I did. Needless to say, recovery will vary from person to person, but should not be painful. If it is, I highly recommend an ice pack to take the edge off. I believe that Biofreeze would be a great option, too.
ONE MONTH RESULTS
Honestly, I was starting to get a little discouraged on my results after week 3. My stomach had gone down to its original size and lost the numbness, but I was ready for it to start shrinking! Surprisingly, at week 5, I quickly started seeing an overall flattening of my stomach. My pants started to fall down, too. I went in for my one-month follow-up appointment and when compared to my before pictures, there was already a big difference! I look less bloated and flabby.
The best part? I still have a month to go for even more results! Maximum results take place anywhere from 2-4 months, so I’m excited about the next few months!
IS COOLSCULPTING WORTH IT?
Even at the one-month mark, I say yes. I had some recovery woes, yes, but it was nothing compared to what a tummy tuck surgery recovery would have been. There was absolutely no cutting or lasers involved in my treatment, yet I’m seeing amazing results.
WHAT YOU NEED TO RECOVER COMFORTABLY FROM COOLSCULPTING
I have put together a list of items that helped me get through the recovery and pain after coolsculpting. I hope it helps you, too!
Have questions about CoolSculpting? Feel free to leave a comment here and I’ll get back to you.
103 Comments on “Coolsculpting Update – One Month Later and Cramping Pain”
Eek the recovery sounds a bit painful but compared to surgery, not so bad. Did you take before/after pictures of your tummy area from the side (bare skin)?
Yes, I will get photos at 2 months that I can share!
I have wondered about this procedure ever since I saw it on some show. The one thing that has discouraged me from a surgical solution is the large scar you end up with afterwards. The point for me would be to look good naked and I can’t see looking better naked with a hip-to-hip scar. I can’t wait to see your results at the end.
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Hi amy:
I had coolsculpting done on Monday, so five days ago. I’m feeling everything you felt. Last night I could hardly sleep and today, it has been horrible. Your post has encourage me because I’ve felt so bad, and the dermatologist never described it as being so painful. I’m bloated or swollen. I feel the pins and needle sensation and some similar to afterbirth cramps. I’m desperate and don’t want to do my love handles, which I was planning to have done if I saw alot of difference. Thanks for the tips.
Diana
Diana- I really encourage you to try the ice packs. That is what saved me the first 12 days or so. You should start seeing relief after a couple of week. Until then, purchase a large ice pack (or two) from a drug store and keep it on your tummy all day and night. (this is why I like two, one is always cold and ready to go) Hang in there! At around 3 weeks you will start slimming down and seeing results!
Thank you amy,
i have to say, i followed your advice about the ice packs and it has made a world of difference. I feel a little better today, but this surely feels like a post surgical procedure, without a scar. Thank God I am a stay at home mom and work on my own hours. I haven’t been able to sit for a long time the whole week. Thanks again for your blog. I also have a blog(in spanish) and I will put on my favorites so people can get to your from mine.
I won a contest on Facebook in March and my husband and I went in to do the coolsculpting. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be but it definitely was uncomfortable. I really didn’t see that big of results but they said sometimes you need a few treatments.. Your pics look great, I am glad that you saw a difference.
@Mellisa @ Fun Saving Money, Yes, it was quite uncomfortable at times, but not the entire treatment. Yes, I definitely see a difference. How many areas did you have treated? I had 3 areas in my stomach area done.
@Mom Spark,
I only had my lower stomach treated. They just got the machine and had trouble getting a good suction so she had to squeeze my stomach 3 times before it finally worked. I would have loved to have had different areas I think it would have made more of a difference. Did you get yours done in OKC?
@Mellisa, Oh no! That wouldn’t have been fun. Since you only had one section treated, that may be why you’re not seeing the same results I am. I had one large piece and two small pieces all in the same day. That is probably why I cramped so bad afterwards.
Yes, I had mine done in OKC, you?
I was considering going to get this procedure in a few weeks. I was just wondering how your results have turned out now that it’s 4 months later. Would you say it was worth it? Are your results what you expected?? Thank you!
@Laura, Hi, Laura- Yes, I definitely see results. It isn’t the same result as a tummy tuck would be regarding flatness of the tummy, but it took a huge portion of the bulk out. The recovery time is also much easier than a major surgery would be.
You said you had 3 treatments, did you do 1 hour on lower abbs & an hour on each love handle? You look good in your photos, did you diet too? It looks like your arms are thinner.
I just had this done 6 days ago and I am also having pain and swelling, but so far no cramping. (knock on wood) It feels tender and sometimes feels like a ripping, ice packs seem to help. I can’t wait to see results:)
Yes, 1 hour on each. I did diet while I was recovering, yes, because I was inspired from the results!
I know some people who would definitely want to read about your experience in Coolsculpting. Hope your post inspires people to not just rely on cosmetic surgery but also to go on a diet. Good post!
Thank you for this helpful blog! I’ve been looking for advice on how to deal with the pain and all other blogs have been just been the complaints about the pain, either they didn’t have solutions or didn’t share. The ice packs have been helping a lot. It’s been 5 days and I’ve been experiencing moderate intermittent pain where I get sharp jabs. Hoping it does not get worse. I do wear compression garments throughout the day which helps with swelling. I notice that when I take it off, a couple hours later the area is a little swollen.
Hoping to see similar results you did. I’m also continuing with my diet, so really hoping for some good results 🙂 I was really excited I could help flatten my stomach area without crunches and surgery, I have physical condition/limitation and my doctors have really limited anything that aggravates it, which includes most exercises other than walking.
Thank you again for sharing your experience!
@Connie, Of course! Ice was the only thing that would help with the pain. It doesn’t go away, I promise! It took around 2 weeks for mine to completely go away.
I’m so happy I found your blog. I had two areas on my lower abdomen done two days ago. I’m numb and so swollen. O hope I don’t experience the cramping you have mentioned. I was wondering how long it took for the swelling to go down.
Hi Amy, I am so glad I found your blog! Had coolsculpting done 6 days ago and I am in such pain that I was beginning to have major regrets. Worse part is I am on business travel and wearing pants/skirt suits that are absolutely killing me around my waist. I was so desperate that I paid $10 for a small tube of bengay at the hotel’s gift shop today but it made it worse. Haven’t slept in 2 nights and also taking 800mg prescription motrin. Just went and got some ice after reading your blog so trying that now. I sure hope this pain and money spent will be worth it. Had my lower and upper abdomen (3 areas) done. All I am seeing right now is a swollen stomach, tenderness and stabbing pain. Wished my Dr. Had prepared me better and given me better post procedure directions.
@Janet, Purchase an ice pack belt, it will save your sanity! I ended up buying two so that I could have on in the freezer at all times. (no down time)
@Mom Spark, Thank you for your reply. The ice packs helped a lot as well as the Neurontin that I asked my Dr to prescribe after reading your blog. The pain subsided exactly 12 days after the treatment. Haven’t seen much results yet but it is still very early. Thanks to your site for giving me hope to tolerate the pain!
@Janet, I’m on day 5 too and I also had 3 areas done on my belly. I am so swollen and having lots of cramping – the pain is awful. The ice packs help a lot. I wish my doctor prepared me for the swelling and pain. I thought I was going crazy and was filled with regret. Thanks for your blog. I’m not alone! Now, I’m hanging on until day 12.
@Kathy, there is definitely relief on Day 12. I have to say that was the worse pain I have ever endured and since I was not expecting it, it made it even more unbearable. The drug (Neurontin 300mg aka Gabapentin) helps a lot. It makes you sleep so it is best to take at nights if you can get your Dr to prescribe it. Hang in there!
I wish I had not wasted my money. I had coolsculpting on my tummy three and a half months ago and the only change I have noticed is an increase of one inch in my waist. My hips have not changed a bit. I’m 5’2″ and have weighed 140 the entire time. (I’m just saying this for your reference, I know it’s not intended as a weightloss aid.) For me it was also the worst pain ever. I have a very high pain tolerance and was not expecting it. Then I was pretty numb for a few days. The pain intensified by day five and lasted about a week. I took some Viocadan I had left over from the dentist. I was going to have two treatments, but fortunately they allowed me to transfer the credit to something else. No way would I ever do that again.
Hi Amy – just wondered if you could post a brief update on your procedure since last July. 3 month pics, did the results last, are you still happy, would you pay the money to have it done, etc.
I have a muffin top roll at the TOP of my belly (not the waistline) and bra rolls that seem like this procedure might work for.
Thank you!
@Tracy, Overall, I do think the coolsculpting worked in that it did eliminate the fat cells in my tummy. It does not, however, tighten the area, so in my case I now have sagging skin that I will need to be treated for. I do think it was worth doing because it gave me the motivation to start eating healthy and working out. (to try to tighten the stomach)
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I, too, have had a great deal of pain since day three after my CoolSculpting. What upsets me, is the doctor and her staff downplay recovery time and pain. This happened with another, non-invasive treatment I had with the same doctor. To all the doctors out there, it’s not helpful to do this. We end up worrying more about our symptoms and in some cases are unable to meet our daily responsibilities. If we all know, in advance, what to expect we can plan better and have more piece of mind!
I work three jobs, do you think it would okay to work in the recovery period? It would just require me to stand for long periods of time. Do you think it would be workable? Thanks!
It is hard to predict how your body will react to the procedure. Some patients do not experience cramping at all. For me, there was no way I could stand for long periods of time without the ice pack strapped around my stomach.
Hihi… may i know the effect of coolsculpting on the arms? thank you so much
After the coolsculpting treatment do you advise the persone to have any
Massage therapy or body wrap after only 3 of the treatments.???
I had this procedure done 6 days ago. I too am sore and is feeling cramps. I was able to go to the gym since day 4 and have been going everyday since for 45-60 minute cardio. I got 3 areas of my stomach done as well. I can already see a difference despite a little bit of swelling. I was told to wear a waist cincher for the 1st 2 weeks. The tightness of the cincher is a little uncomfortable but again I can see more curves already. I had a C-section so my cool sculpting will be followed up by skin tightening. I’m glad I came across this blog because I was unsure of the soreness & cramps. This blog has definitely made me feel better. I’m going to Jamaica in Feb & I should really be able to gauge my results before then. I was told I should see a big difference within 2 months.
What type of skin tightening are you planning on doing (or did?)? How was your results overall
I haven’t had any tightening procedures. Overall, the coolsculpting helped nicely at the time, but if you gain weight back there, it’s back.
I am glad coolSculpting worked really well for you! You go girl!
CoolSculpting is not intended to replace a healthy diet and/or an excerise routine for overweight patients. The best candidates for this procedure are those individuals who are close to their ideal body weight, eat well and exercise regularly, but have pockets of fat they can’t get rid of (commonly known as “muffin tops or love handles”). This procedure is excellent for patients who want surgery-like results, but do not want to go under the knife and experience the downtime.
Thank you for your blog! Patients who take the time to share their experiences like this are really helping others.
I have only had one patient, out of the many hundreds who have been treated, who has had the kind of cramping you describe. I sometimes wonder if it might have something to do with tugging on the underlying muscles in someone who does not have a thick layer of fat overlying the muscle, as was the case in my patient. I would encourage anyone who has this side effect to let your doctor know, as the gabapentin (Neurontin) and icing might help. Also make sure you get the treatment with a board-certified dermatologist experienced with the procedure and with good training. The dermatologist should be doing a thorough screening before procedure, including any history of cold-induced disorders like chillblains or Raynaud’s, or chronic hepatitis, or neurologic disorders involving demyelination like multiple sclerosis. I do not treat these patients. I also do not treat unless I can “pinch an inch” of fat or more. If you have a protruding stomach but the layer of fat you can pinch is less than an inch, the fat is within the peritoneal cavity, under the muscles, and treatment would cause too much chilling to the underlying muscle and fascia. These patients need very specialized dietary modification and supplements to help them get rid of the fat wrapped around the guts, which is truly not good for one’s health.
I hope you are happy in the long term! Sorry for your discomfort, it really is not common but I hope it was worth it1
Sheryl Clark MD
New York City
I’m in so much pain it stings and I just want to cry but I know it will be better later on, I had my abdomen done on March 18 and I’m still feeling it I have a 5 month old and my daughter accidentally kicked me I wanted to scream now I’m just sore I don’t want anything touching me:-(
Ouch! Have you tried ice packs? I bought a belt that holds ice packs around the waist and it saved me. Ice was the only thing that could relieve the pain.
So nice of you to continue responding to this post!
I had a concern about one of your comments! you said that you NOW have to get a tightening treatment after the procedure? Did cool sculpting leave you with lax skin or was your skin lax before? if it leaves you will loose skin that seems super scary!!! Thank you in advance. You look great 🙂
No, I already had lax skin due to pregnancy. It does NOT give you lax skin. 🙂
Awesome! I really appreciate you providing such great information to your readers. Good woman!
Just had coolsculpting yesterday, Today is my second day, On day of procedure, I felt same as you all. Second day, Im at work and Im bloated and stomach still hard and feels like it’s still fozen, bit of pain when I am trying to sit down in my lower belly. I had three treatmensts, upper and lower belly.
My Doc. gave me nerve meds and warned me that I may have a sharp pain after three to five days but these will immedialy stop the pain. Now I have to wait and see.
I am not sure why, they say there is no downtime? Pain and being hard and bloaded is downtime, this will contine for about 2-3 weeks.
Now will the results to worth $3,000. or Lipo a better option, downtime 2-4 weeks also.
Results look great, Amy! It’s great to encourage a non-invasive alternative to liposuction
I am glad to have come across your post. I had two hours of Cool Sculpting done 6 days ago – two large applicators in my lower abdomen – and I am in so much pain. I was given a topical anesthetic cream today at the clinic I had it done and I am taking Advil and Tylenol together all day. The jabs are unbearable. The swelling is bad and the whole area is so sore. I was told this is not common but immediately refuted them by saying how many posts I have found online describing the same symptoms. I wish they were more upfront about this. The ice pack doesn’t seem to help much. I can’t wait to feel better. I am just miserable. Tonight is Halloween and all I did was lay in bed. I couldn’t even take my son out for trick or treat!
I can totally relate to the pain, too! My tech also told me that it wasn’t normal to be in so much pain, but I was miserable for a while, too. Did you buy a long ice pack with a belt? That was the only thing that saved me. Heat made it worse, but it may help you? I had to literally wear the ice pack around my tummy all day and night until the pain subsided. I hope you can find some relief soon!
Thank you for your reply 🙂
Heat makes it worse for me, too. I have been laying in bed with a long ice pack on the area. I thought I would give it another try. I have not bought a belt.
I am not sure what it is that is helping a bit – the anesthetic cream, the 1000 mg of Tylenol combined with 800 mg of Advil every 4 hours, or the ice pack – but I feel a very small improvement. I think just staying in bed helps but with no down time, as the clinic said, I did not make arrangements to stay home and had such a busy week that it made the pain even more unbearable. The technician eventually said that one more client also experienced this and she too had the large applicators.
The swelling will subside, right? I am now bigger than before and my clothes are uncomfortable.
Oh the things we do to ourselves in the name of beauty!!!
Okay.. Had the procedure yesterday.. Two on my lower stomach and one on each of my outer thighs.. Reading this is kina freaking me out about what pain is to come.. Yikes!! I am tender only on my lower stomach, not the thighs.. Should I just start the ice today? I am in Law Enforcement and wear a gunbelt at work.., it’s 10lbs around my lower waste.. So now I am worried I won’t be able to get thru..
I was not told there would be any pain.. Just a little swelling and pins and needles is all they said…
It currently is sore to the touch…
So I have joined the cool sculpting achievers club. Had my stomach done just after Xmas. Two regular cups in the upper area and two large cups in the lower abs. Was doing great until about new years day and OMG!!!!!! Sweet baby Jesus!! the stinging sensitivity and sharp jabs had me hugging my ice pack at night. I have discovered that the worst jabs I get are located around my laparoscopic scars I have from my oophorectomy surgery. So if anyone is considering this please take this into consideration if you have any surgery scars, because holy moly it can be intense and feels like a tight rubber band being pulled.
I SO appreciate all this feedback and that there is a light or relief at the end of the tunnel. I am on day 9 and there is some shifting in the pain….that or I am just getting used it. 🙂
None the less I am curious to see my results.
Hello, thank you soooo much for your post…I feel that I’m not alone. I’m in the 7th day post-procedure, and today has been the wort day of all the very bad days I’ve had. I can hardly sleep, and bieng at work is just unbeareble. I feel very sore, extreme cramping, stinging, stabbing sensations…really, if I had known that it was gonna be this painful, I would have never done it. I wish I knew when the pain will go away, I’m already taking Gabapebtin bacause I told my Dr. that I could not take it any more. I’m about to go to the urgent care to see if this is really normal, what do you think?
Thanks again for your post.
Hi Veronica,
so understand what you are going through. By day 10 it started to feel a shift for me and was able to finally get a decent nights rest without hugging my ice pack. Got to love having to use the ice pack in the middle of winter!
By Day 12 I didn’t have to wear the compression top that was supporting me when I moved so my tummy wouldn’t hurt.
I am on Day 13 and FINALLY wearing normal work clothes instead of very loose skirts and tops and have minimal burning. The stabbing pain is gone. Still a bit swollen and numb but I can live with that!! Of course so long as it goes away.
Hang in there Veronica! Hope you feel better soon.
It’s hard to find knowledgeable people about this subject, however, you seem like you
know what you’re talking about! Thanks
I had my first treatment two weeks ago. I was bruised pretty bad, but it didn’t hurt, just numb. I am anxiously waiting to see improvement. I go back in two weeks for my second treatment. I’m excited about it. I am near the bottom of my weight range, but still have a big gut. So losing weight wouldn’t get rid of it.
Wish me luck.
I had my lower tummy done one week ago today with two small applicators overlapping. At the moment, I feel like one of the lucky ones. Yes, I had swelling, numbness and a deep bruised feeling immediately following. The numbness and swelling have become less, but the soreness still is bothersome. On day five, the bee stings and sharp jabs showed up, but nothing debilitating. I have taken Motrin at night, as it seems worse when I stop moving. I have done one hour of cardio every day since the procedure and gone about my days as normal. I can tell something isn’t right in that area, but it’s nothing compared to the recovery of a tummy tuck! I want to mention that I am the ideal candidate for cool sculpting…fit, exercise everyday, good diet, with a BIG poochy belly! The nurse didn’t think I would have the inch to pinch by looking at me clothed. Boy was she surprised when she could grab a handful! Have realistic expectations when deciding if this is for you. There is no instant gratification and the final result is suttle. Now it’s the waiting game to see how it worked for me.
I just finished my 2nd treatment and I’m already down a pant size. Afterwards I guess I’m the luckiest one minimal soreness, bruising,and swelling, but then again everyone’s pain tolerance is different. After the first treatment I didn’t wear a abdominal wear now I’ve decided to try one. It helps with the swelling. Drink lots of water.
I’m on my 6th day post treatment. 2 applications vertical on either side of my belly button ( I have a vertical c-section scar) and one large application above horizontally. I had no bruising but it was sore on sides and very sore in the middle of the top application site. I have been walking on my treadmill every day since. And wearing pants with stretch at the waste. I am 15 lbs overweight. Heavy diet going on because I’m off to Hawaii in a couple of weeks. I’ve been taking aleve every day since the assault on my abs. Still very swollen. Tired of this. Also for pain/soreness I sprayed my belly with Aspercream pain reliever. You can find it at Walgreens by the arthritis stuff. I use it as a sports pain reliever. It works like a charm on my stomach today!! Thank God cuz I sit at a desk most of the day and I was just not able to get comfortable. This really helped today.
Hi there, my question is for AMY or any others who would like to chime in as well. I had 6 sections (4 on my stomach and 2 on my love handles) done last Friday. So far I feel like I’m a pretty classic case. The procedure wasn’t painful so much as just a bit uncomfortable at first, then once numb was fine and actually seemed to go by pretty fast. The lower ab area was pretty painful, but I’ve had 2 c-sections and I’m barely 7 months post 2nd baby, so I’m assuming that was why so painful. The next day after CS, I was very swollen and only bruised on my love handles. The next day still the same. It was at day 5 when my nerves started to wake back up and the pain is bare able but totally sucks. Luckily I had some pain killers left from my csection that I am taking to mask the pain because I wouldn’t be sleeping if not. Tomorrow marks a week since my treatment and I’m just praying in one more weeks time all will be back to normal and then just have to wait to see the results. My recommendation for anyone feeling pain or discomfort is a compression garment or waist trainer, cold compresses or ice packs, cooling gel and some sort of pain reliever. That’s what’s made the pain bare able for me. But here’s my question, I was reading another blog from a woman who had her midsection done and she at 4 months was very happy with her results, but then at maybe 7 months retracted all her praise about the procedure and said that the results are only temporary and not permanent. Totally not worth the money!! Do any of you, who are a year or so post procedure feel this way? Thanks!
Hi Chanelle – Since coolsculpting isn’t a permanent solution, you pretty much have to keep weight down to keep the results.They told me this when I had my procedure done and it’s proved to be true. My weight has gone up and down since then, and so the results I received from my procedure have pretty much disappeared.
Hello ladies,
I have had my lower back done(love handles) and that was no problem no bruising no pain.. Then I had my lower abs done 2/8 and now my upper abs on 2/11..ok so pain wise the lower not so bad numbness swollen..my upper is very swollen light bruising and the numbness and painful stings. My sides I noticed in the first month nice results..I’m hoping after all this painful abs procedure it gets better I’m not in bad pain but it’s more uncomfortable and looking forward to the results 😉
And thank you to all the ladies with their input on the pain factor it’s good to hear I’m not the only one with some pain…I’m defiantly going to try the ice packs tonight:)
I am glad I found you blog page to see how helpful everyone is being following CoolSculpting. First, I do want to clarify that I own a medical spa in Atlanta and perform CoolSculpting procedures. I am not a doctor and am not providing medical advice, but hopefully can give some guidance and assurance to anyone looking for it.
The pain that several people are describing is unfortunately a side effect of CoolSculpting. it’s not something that everyone gets only about 20% of the people and most common on the abdomen. Even more common when the large CoolMax applicator is used. I had the CoolMax and other than soreness for about a week and some swelling and of course the skin numbness had nothing else
Some of our clients have tried over the counter remedies they felt might help and we seem to be on to something that does provide some relief. It’s called Arctic Ease and can be purchased at many drugstores. Its a cooling wrap that is intended to go around sore joints to ice them and provide support and compression.
I have suggested this option to several people that got more significant pain after their CoolSculpting. Most everyone that used it said it helped, some more than others but any relief is better than none.
The discomfort is worse at night but can last all day long. The wrap is something that instantly cools without having to freeze it and can be reused enough to get you through the week or two of pain before it finally subsides.
There are prescription options that can help as well including oral medications to control nerve pain and patches that numb the area completely and tend to give the best relief. Pain medications typically don’t help with this type of pain, but can help you sleep at night. Talk to your treatment provider right away if you experience this pain and get some relief. It typically starts around the 3rd day after treatment and can last up to 2 weeks. The pain tends to get worse before it gets better so making that call early is the key to relief and a good nights sleep.
I wish we could say that those experiencing the most pain would get the most results, but unfortunately that isn’t the case. However, the pain does mean that the freezing process worked and like anyone that gets CoolSculpting those fat cells are dying and you’ll see your slimmer self in 3 months!
Hang in there, but don’t suffer this alone, go back to your CoolSculpting Treatment Center and talk to the doctor to get a prescription for the pain. There is help available. The Arctic Ease can go along with or without any pharmaceutical therapy you use as it’s completely medication free.
I had CS today. I’m a Young Living essential oil user and I am curious what oils you would recommend for recovery. I’m trying to avoid that nerve pain some people get. Any suggestions for oils to apply topically or take orally to nurture nerve healing?
Anything that is cooling, like wintergreen or peppermint may help. Ice helped the move with my pain.
I had cool sculpting 5 days ago on the side of the hips 1 application on each, but no pain sofar. And hardly any bruise or swelling. Does this mean it didn’t work? I intended to have a session also on my love handles, this week, but am really wondering whether waste of money?
I visited 2 clinics before hand, first one told me that the application heads are for single use and disposed each time. I have choosen the 2 nd clinic because a little cheaper. It şs a Zeltiq , but has an undetachable applicator head and they applied it by putting a clear liner into it. I’m a little confused about the whole thing. Are there different forms of CS machines?
Had the procedure May 6th (6 days ago) two large applicators on my lower stomach. The first two days I experienced extream swelling. This went down after about 48 hours. Then the bruises started showing up. One bruise was yellow in color. The second larger bruise was a deep redish purple and very large on the underside of my stomach. Not too much pain the first few days..a little discomfort but manageable. Wow wow wow..last night the pain was intense. Could not sleep at all. As someone else described..it was like all the nerve endings were waking up or coming back to life. I took two motrin at 2 am and it helped a little. I will try ice today if the pain gets to the same level. I have my upper abs and flanks scheduled for Tuesday May 17th. I do have a high tolerance for pain, it feels like small electrical shocks all over my lower abdominal area. I am NOT bent over in sever pain but it is uncomfortable and very noticeable.
I guess all the reviews say no down time! No pain! I am not sure if I would go that far. It would have been nice if the facility I went to ( a very reputable one at that) would have gone over the possible side effects (because not everyone gets them) and maybe sent home a sheet of possible treatments to deal with the pain.
At this point I am going thru with my appointment next week. Although I must say….I am not looking forward to the two to three weeks after….the procedure itself is fine.
No one has talked about how your skin looks after the procedure. Once the belly fat is gone does your skin sag? I’m booked for an appointment this week and I’m worried about skin sagging once that is gone.. can anyone help? Thank you
I did my tummy around the belly button done in January and, after 3 months, realized my lower tummy now needed the same procedure. The area around my belly button was nice and flat but the area below it was bulging out. I just had my lower tummy and love handles done. What I have realized is that the areas with less fat hurt a lot more once the device is removed. The pain after the procedure was completed on my lower tummy and device removed was extremely painful. It hurt so bad I thought I’d start crying. The nurse told me to get a compression garment to keep anything from rubbing against the skin. It is now 6 days post procedure and my tummy skin is stinging like crazy but not keeping me awake at night. The love handle areas bruised but is not painful at all. I take Tylenol to take the sting out and wear compression garmets when I get dressed. I look forward to the same great results.
I had my procedure done on May 20th. I had 2 large applicators on my lower stomach and one small one on each of my love handles. I had no idea of the pain that was going to occur immediately right after they removed the applicators. They had to massage the frozen area for a few minutes and I almost passed out. The pain was extreme right from the start. The pain finally started subsiding on day 16 and have been wearing a compression top from the beginning. It will be 1 month in a couple of days since having this procedure. I am still swollen in the abdominal area and still cannot wear my regular jeans comfortably. I am looking forward to the end results but still have not seen any. I have a follow-up appointment on week 5 and hope to see something happening at that point.
This past Monday was 3 weeks since I had CS done. I still cannot fit into my pants, I also feel like even though my eating hasn’t changed, that I have gained weight since. Has anyone else had this issue?
I had 4 max CS in diamond shape on my belly 5 days ago. Swollen. Numb. Some bruising. It’s itchy inside. I want to scratch but when I touch my belly it’s numb. Scream! Feeling bloated and sad to read that some are saying not permanent? I was told permenant results. I will not be happy if it’s not permanent. I go for 4 & 8 week photos then round 2 at ten weeks of smaller applicators x 4. I’m assuming by Christmas I’ll be able to wear a cute belt. My belly measures 42″ before CS.
Do not take ibuprofen! Don’t take any anti inflammatory. It will interfere with results
Did you have to have more than 1 session? I just did my first session yesterday. and booked my 2nd session, which they said I would need. I am bloated and swollen and sore.
ALSO – did you lose any weight during that 1 month before and after pic?
I just wanted to weigh in on the topic. I had my procedure on my abs 4 weeks ago today. Honestly, I feel the information on the internet is misleading. There is no way you can have this procedure, then resume your regular lifestyle. First, a healthy lifestyle is encouraged, which I assume includes exercise. I exercised before the treatment. I could not run afterward. I was doing good just to walk fast. On the third week, I could jog on the treadmill at a slow pace. I found that wearing a compression garment made that possible. Second, I was told by the associate that I would not lose weight, just fat cells. So, to actually lose weight, I would have to maintain a healthy diet and exercise. It’s all very confusing. I may need to get my love handles done, but for the pain and cost, I may just keep them.
You should do the Sculpsure instead is a combination of laser and cooling it’s only 25 mins with the same results but no pain after. I had it done almost 2 weeks ago and other than feeling like I did a bunch of sit ups and a little discomfort during the procedure in the flank area it was fine. No pain after at least not yet. I had it done in a place in midtown called skintology.
I forgot to mention i chose this procedure because it was way cheaper then the coolsculpting. I got a Groupon got a great deal.
Hi there! Thanks for your article I found it very helpful, curious to ask you how are you doing now? Is it permanent results?
I’m going in for my initial consultation in 2 days!! Your pic looks great!!
Cheers,
C.
This is an old blog post but it is one of the first results in google when you search for coolsculpting blog review. I’m a guy and had coolsculpting done just over 2 weeks ago now. I had minimal bruising that went away after 4 days or so which really surprised me. The pain was minimal and I’ve had no pain at all the last week. Before that it was very light pain and only when I put pressure on the area. If I push on the area now, I get light pain. I had the flanks and stomach done, 4 applicators. Both flanks that did at one time (2 machines) and the stomach was overlapping so they did one at a time. On just over week 2, I see no results but the results aren’t supposed to show up until week 5 or 6 so I’m not worried. We’ll see how well it works. I am very fit but just had a small bulge around the stomach and flanks I wanted to get rid of. Dieting would not get rid of it.
Maybe I’m the odd one out but my procedure was excruciating for the first 5 minutes. Done just 5 days ago, I’m so discouraged and feel a bit mis-lead. The treatment was discribed as ‘intense’ by the technician. I’ve had 4 babies without anesthesia so I think my pain threshold is considerable but the suction was as painful as the worst labor! However, after 5 minutes, I was ok. 5 times with (not large) applicator. Sore swollen, bruised and like many others, the nerves are rebelling at mutiny level. Wasn’t given a lot of info about that other than feeling like i was sore from a workout. More like a work over. Losing sleep but must work. Compression wasn’t mentioned but I find it helps. Warm bath eases pain temporarily. Wish I’d been handed the post-procedure info at my initial consultation. Guess they are afraid they wouldn’t see me again… and they wouldn’t have. Vacation coming up 3 weeks post treatment. I would certainly have waited if not passed on the treatment altogether. Wearing fat clothes. Praying this pain eases up soon. I may feel differently after a few months but right now, I’d give it a big thumbs down.
I had he CoolSculpting done at the end of December. I have seen no difference in my stomach area. I measure it every day. I have a high tolerance to pain, but this was absolutely awful. I have a scar from a previous surgery that runs down the middle of my tummy. It became very swollen after the procedure. It ached day and night. I had a huge difficulty wearing pants. Sleep was hard to come by because of the pain. I cannot imagine having relations with your husband during this time. “Don’t touch my stomach!”
In fact, that was my mantra for all of January and February. Around the very end of February, I can finally wear pants. I paid for more procedures, but I am going to ask for a refund. It isn’t worth it, especially since I see no difference in my stomach area, and it was so extremely painful for so long. It really wears on you. Good lucky people if you decide on this procedure.
i had coll sculpting two areas of my stomach on February 21, 2018 and it seems like I have gained weight I have been working out three to four days a week and been watching what I eat did anyone else have this problem and will it change.
Sorry I meant to say cool sculpting this Andrea again
I had cool sculpting done 2 wks ago and I wish I had looked into it more. I had my abdomen done and I was in pain from the beginning. Now I have lumps in my right side and am more swollen than the onset. I still can not wear regular clothes and just having anything against my stomach is uncomfortable. The Drs office has been supportive, but I keep thinking that something isn’t right. I have had three foot surgeries and only taken Advil. This has been worse! Had I known I would have never done it. I hope it changes.
Hi, thanks for your comments, now I know I’m not the only one experiencing cramps. I had cool sculpting done 3 weeks ago. I have done it before but this one has been the most painful and I am sure it is because they used the large applicator and in the lower abdominal area which seems to be the most painful.
Hope that the pain goes away and I will see the results.
It seems that the cramping isn’t a common reaction, but it certainly was for me as well. Very, very painful! An ice pack was the only relief I got from it.
I had CS done 3 weeks ago and I still have numbness and soreness. I was very swollen the first couple of days and used the binder daily which did help. I just want to know when this numbness and soreness will go away. I have a follow-up appointment in a few weeks but not sure I see results yet. I was told between 1-3 months so I will patiently wait. Glad to have found this blog 🙂
I had cool sculpting done 2 weeks ago
Inner outer thighs… my shorts are tighter
Is this right
Has anyone had a second cool sculpting in the same area of their body and seen results that would mean it is worth it? I had the first cool sculpting procedure in early December of 2018 on my lower and upper abdomen. I was not in terrible pain but it was no picnic either. And, as we all know, it is pretty expensive! I am not sure there is any imporvement – pretty much think my stomach is the same (now that the swelling has receded) or that there is just the slightest improvement. If someone has had a second cool sculpting and has thoughts on it PLEASE share them with me! Thank you.
Hi there. I am exactly 2 weeks post procedure, having had 6 areas. Upper abs lower abs and love handles. I have had the nerve pain on and off the entire time with the worst being around day 7. My question is, how long do you stay swollen and bloaty feeling? I almost feel like my stomach is bigger now than before.
Honestly, I think it took about 2 weeks before I felt totally pain-free and normal. 🙁
I had 3 applicators on my stomach and the massage part at the end was the worst pain I’ve ever experienced. I cried and almost passed out from the pain. Hate that this is described as “just uncomfortable.” I was excited to do other parts of my body but will not be doing this again. I’m on day 5. Have some stinging during the day, but an ice pack helps. The pain from that massage is definitely as bad as labor. This needs to be made known to people.
I felt the exact same way. I don’t think I will be going back again. They only advertise the good not the bad. People should know what are about to experience
I had 2 applicators on my stomach 6 days ago and I agree with Brittany — the massage part at the end was the worst pain I’ve ever experienced and thought I was going to pass out. The first 8 minutes each applicator was on I thought I was going to throw up from the pain……I too have had a baby and nothing about labor or pregnancy compared to this. My stomach is very bloated still…I’m also sore. Not so sure I would have followed through with this procedure has I known it was going to be so painful. I look like I’m 5 months pregnant due to the swelling — way bigger stomach now than before the procedure. I also had extreme cramping for almost 8 hours after the procedure. Never thought I would say this, but I would rather be in labor and deliver a baby instead of feeling like this. I am going to give it a chance and try to be patient but that was pure HELL and I never want to experience it again.
Hi Amy. You are absolutely correct about maximum results being fully visible after a good 2-4 months. We offer CoolSculpting at our MediSpa in Chennai, India and this is the same thing we tell all our customers too. Is there a follow up to this post? Did you document final results? We would love to see how it went for you. Cheers!
I had the procedure done yesterday and it was not bad at all for me. The worst part was the first five min and then after that, I didn’t feel anything – the massage part felt weird but mainly b/c it was numb. I am very bloated/swollen today. Stomach is sore, but not unbearable. I am hoping that I don’t experience the day 5 pain like most people experienced. I usually have a very high tolerance for pain do fingers crossed. I am hoping to see some results in a few weeks, even though they won’t be major, a little bit would be nice = my follow up is in August – they like to wait 3 months before second treatment.
I felt obliged to comment as I’ve had this treatment every year for the last three on my stomach and sides/flanks.
This probably goes to show it doesn’t work but my I’ve also gained weight over this period.
On my second time, I got the stomach cramping and actually thought it was a really bad period– that’s how I’d describe the pain. I didn’t get this on the first or third time! I’d recommend a higher temperature for longer to minimise the risk of this. My provider didn’t think the colder temperature had anything to do with it but it seems coincidental!
As for the flanks/sides, I’ve had quite bad bruising here both times. It’s completely aligned to the shape of the rectangular cup so you couldn’t possibly pretend it was something else.
This time, I’m using and taking Arnica, alongside Bromelain and Quercetin with Vit C. It was annoying to spend more money but I’m seven days out now and the bruising is healing much faster than last time, even though it was worse bruising this time. It’s now almost concealable with make up.
Hope this helps someone somewhere!
p.s. can’t believe they gave you coffee during your treatment. You shouldn’t be ingesting anything during treatment, let alone coffee!
Hi I’m going to get my club lk e chin done in a few days but have started reading all these horror story’s of server nerve pain. Has anyone had under there chin done? Is all this cramping and pain only associated with abdomin and thigh area?
Thanks
I had cool sculpting done over three years ago and I believe I have PAH and now my self esteem has went from on a scale 1-10 to a 5. I can’t even suck in my bulge and it’s very noticeable, when before the procedure I could get away with it.. Is there an exercise or other home remedy that I can do to get rid of this problem. I could barely afford the first and it was a present HELP ME SOLVE MY PROBLEM..WILL NOT RECOMMEND THIS..I FELT LIKE THE COMPANY SHOULD BE HELD RELIABLE $
I had coolscupting done 7 days ago and it has been a horrible experience. My advice due to the swelling do not get this done during tthe summer months. If i would have known the pain was this bad i prob would not have done it. My swelling went down and i am back to my orginal size. Seeing myself bloated actually made me appriciate my orginal size. I hope i have a speedy recovery because i dont think i can take this pain anymore.
I just had cool sculpting 12 hours ago
I feel like I’m 6 months pregnant! I’m so swollen but have little pain…I teach school so I can’t wear ice packs…I’m starting to scare myself that the swelling won’t go away! I’m 5’5 and weigh 118 and only had my abdominal area done…I had 4 areas done in one day. Maybe that’s why I’m so swollen
Any advise or reassurance that you may have is appreciated! 🙂
I am almost 3 weeks out from my initial CS treatment for 3 areas on my abs. For me I was quite sore the day of and the day after, but by day 3 or so i didn’t have too much pain other than soreness to the touch. I too looked 6 months pregnant the first 2 days and my stomach felt hard like a rock. By the 2nd day in the evening most of the swelling and hardness was gone. I never had much nerve pain but only little electric currents here and there that were not really painful. I didn’t have any cramping after the day of the procedure, but I did have the itching a bit for the first 1-2 weeks, and at almost 3 weeks I still have a little numbness and if i push on the area it is still sore. I can already see some slight improvement in the reduction of the fat on my stomach and am eager to see what the next few weeks bring. Cautiously optimistic!
Your article helped me SO MUCH. I am on day 10 and all of a sudden have these insane cramps (feels like I’m giving birth). Your ice pack trick is saving me. I’m hopeful that this will stop soon and excited to see results as well!