Dreaming of a flatter stomach but want to skip the surgery? CoolSculpting might be your answer! This FDA-cleared treatment freezes and eliminates stubborn fat cells—no needles, no downtime, no scars.

But does it work? And is it right for you? Keep reading to learn more about CoolSculpting, from its benefits to potential risks and what to expect during your treatment.

What is CoolSculpting Fat Treatment?

CoolSculpting is a non-surgical fat reduction treatment that targets stubborn fat in areas like the stomach, thighs, arms, and love handles. It works through a process called cryolipolysis, which freezes fat cells without harming surrounding tissues.

Once frozen, the destroyed fat cells break down and are naturally eliminated by the body over time. The result? A slimmer, more sculpted look without surgical procedure.

How It Works:

✅ Subcutaneous fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than skin and muscle.

✅ A specialized applicator delivers controlled cooling to the target area.

✅ The frozen fat cells crystallize, break down, and are gradually flushed out by the body.

While CoolSculpting has several advantages over traditional fat reduction methods, it’s also essential to consider potential risks before deciding if it’s right for you.

6 Benefits of CoolSculpting

So, what makes CoolSculpting so popular? Let’s take a look at the top CoolSculpting benefits that might just convince you it’s worth trying.

1. Non-Invasive with No Downtime

Unlike liposuction, CoolSculpting requires no incisions, anesthesia, or recovery time. You can go back to work or the gym right after your session.

2. Targeted Fat Reduction

CoolSculpting focuses on problem areas that diet and exercise can’t fix. Studies show a 20-25% fat reduction in treated areas after one session of CoolSculpting.

3. Natural-Looking Results

Since CoolSculpting eliminates fat cells gradually, results appear over one to three months, ensuring a natural and smooth transition rather than a drastic change.

4. Long-Lasting Fat Loss

Once the fat cells are gone, they’re gone for good! As long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle, your results can last indefinitely.

5. No Scarring or Skin Damage

Unlike surgery, CoolSculpting doesn’t damage the skin, making it a great option for those seeking a gentler fat reduction method. Please note that this treatment is not for weight loss.

6. Convenient and Quick Sessions

A single session takes 35-60 minutes, depending on the area being treated. This makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of CoolSculpting

While CoolSculpting is generally safe, there are still some potential side effects and risks to consider.

Common Side Effects

These side effects are usually mild and temporary, resolving within a few days or weeks:

• Redness and Swelling – The treated area may appear red or swollen but resolves quickly.
• Numbness and Tingling – Temporary numbness and tingling sensations are common and typically subside within a few weeks.
• Bruising and Sensitivity – Some patients experience mild bruising or tenderness in the treated area.

Rare but Notable Risks

While rare, some patients may experience more serious side effects:

• Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH) – A study in JAMA Dermatology (2014) found that in rare cases (0.005% to 0.01% of patients), CoolSculpting can cause fat cells to enlarge instead of shrink, requiring surgical correction.
• Pain – Some people may experience discomfort a few days after the treatment, but it typically resolves on its own.
• Skin Firmness or Uneven Texture – Some patients notice prolonged redness, firmness, or lumpiness, though this is uncommon.

Who Should Avoid CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting may not be suitable for individuals who:

• Have cryoglobulinemia or cold agglutinin disease (conditions that make you overly sensitive to cold).
• Have a hernia in or near the treatment area.
• Have significant excess skin laxity—CoolSculpting only reduces body fat, so loose skin may become more noticeable.

What to Expect from a CoolSculpting Session

If you’re interested in getting a CoolSculpting treatment, here’s how it usually goes:

Consultation

It all begins with a simple CoolSculpting consultation. Your provider will assess your goals, discuss your expectations, and create  a personalized treatment plan for you. Your surgeon will also answer your questions, so make sure to do your research before meeting your provider.

Treatment

During your session, your provider will ensure your comfort. The CoolSculpting applicator is then placed on your target area—your stomach, thighs, or arms. You might feel intense cold at first, but don’t worry! Within minutes, the area will become numb, and you can relax, read, or even nap while the device works its magic.

Post-Treatment

After your session, you can resume normal activities immediately. You may experience mild redness, swelling, or numbness, but these should go away quickly. Results will start showing in a few weeks, and full effects will be visible in a couple of months.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Results don’t appear right away, but you’ll start noticing a difference within a few weeks. Your body will gradually remove the dead fat cells, with visible results typically showing up in 1-3 months.

Most people see the best results after 2-3 sessions, though this can vary based on the amount of fat treated and how your body responds.

Is CoolSculpting Procedure for the Stomach Right for You?

CoolSculpting treatment is ideal for those near their ideal weight but struggling with stubborn belly fat that diet and exercise can’t eliminate. It works best for people with persistent belly fat who understand it’s designed for fat reduction. If you want to lose weight, then this is not for you.

FAQS CoolSculpting Stomach

How much does CoolSculpting actually cost?

The cost of CoolSculpting varies depending on the treatment area and the number of sessions needed. For the stomach, prices typically range from $2,000 to $4,000 per session, while treating both arms generally falls between $1,500 and $3,500. Factors like the size of the area, provider fees, and location can influence the final price.

Is CoolSculpting for the stomach painful?

Most patients report little to no pain during or after the treatment. While you may experience temporary numbness, swelling, or redness in the treated area, these side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own within a few days.

Does CoolSculpting treatment really work on the stomach?

Yes, CoolSculpting can help reduce belly fat or stubborn fat bulge. However, it won’t eradicate the visceral fat located deeper within your abdomen. This needs a strict diet and consistent exercise.

How many sessions of CoolSculpting are needed for stomach fat?

Typically, patients need an average of 2–4 sessions, spaced about a month apart. However, some patients may need more or fewer sessions.

How much fat can CoolSculpting remove from the stomach?

CoolSculpting can remove up to 26% of targeted fat cells in the abdomen in a single session.

Can CoolSculpting treatment help with loose skin on the stomach?

If loose skin is your primary concern, you may want to explore other treatments, such as skin-tightening procedures or surgery (tummy tuck), to complement your CoolSculpting results.

Is CoolSculpting in the stomach worth it?

Yes, for those people who want to reduce belly fat cells in their stomach area, this treatment is worth every dollar, with noticeable results over time. Plus, there’s no downtime, making it a convenient option for busy lifestyles.

Sculpt Your Dream Abdomen Today!

Most bodies store fat on their belly. It’s also one of the major causes of insecurities. If you’re looking for an easy fat reduction treatment, CoolSculpting is your best option. If you live in Raleigh and surrounding areas, people choose and trust board-certified Dr. Diehl for their cosmetic procedure needs.

Call us today at Dr. Diehl Plastic Surgery in Raleigh to learn how fat freezing treatment can help you achieve the results you’ve been dreaming of.