How Coolsculpting Works?
Coolsculpting uses a process called cryolipolysis to freeze and destroy fat cells beneath the skin. These frozen fat cells are then naturally processed and removed by the body over several weeks. The result is a noticeable, permanent reduction in fat in the treated areas.
Because Coolsculpting focuses on fat reduction, not collagen stimulation, it doesn’t directly address loose or sagging skin. However, when performed by an experienced provider like Dr. Ryan Bloch at Treat Medspa, it can still create a smoother and more toned appearance for patients who already have good skin elasticity.
The treatment targets fat, not skin. It’s ideal for reducing stubborn fat pockets in areas like the abdomen, flanks, arms, thighs, and under the chin. At Treat Medspa, Dr. Ryan Bloch customizes each Coolsculpting plan to achieve a balanced, natural-looking result that complements your body’s shape and tone.
Why Coolsculpting Doesn’t Tighten Skin
Skin tightening and fat reduction are two different processes. Tightening requires stimulating collagen and elastin, the proteins that give skin its structure and bounce. Coolsculpting doesn’t generate the heat or energy necessary to trigger collagen remodeling.
When fat is removed from beneath the skin, patients with strong elasticity often notice that their skin naturally conforms to the new contour. But if your skin has already lost elasticity from aging, sun damage, or weight changes, Coolsculpting alone won’t significantly tighten it.
However, for patients with reduced skin elasticity often due to aging, significant weight loss, or genetics,the skin may not retract as much. In these cases, Coolsculpting can reduce fat volume but may leave behind mild to moderate skin laxity.
What Happens to the Skin After Coolsculpting
After treatment, the body gradually eliminates the frozen fat cells. As this happens, the treated area becomes slimmer and more defined. If your skin is firm, it will likely retract nicely over the new contour.
For patients with mild laxity, Coolsculpting may slightly enhance skin tone by improving the surface smoothness once the fat layer beneath is reduced. However, those with moderate to severe sagging may need additional treatments specifically designed to tighten skin.
Combining Coolsculpting with Skin-Tightening Treatments
For patients who want both fat reduction and firmer skin, combining Coolsculpting with a dedicated tightening treatment provides the best results. At Treat Medspa, Dr. Ryan Bloch often recommends pairing Coolsculpting with Sofwave, a non-invasive ultrasound treatment that boosts collagen and tightens skin.
This combination offers:
- Comprehensive contouring: Fat reduction from Coolsculpting and skin tightening from Sofwave work together.
- Improved tone: The skin looks smoother and more youthful.
- Long-term results: Collagen stimulation helps maintain firmness over time.
Together, these treatments create a more sculpted, defined look without the need for surgery or downtime.
Who Is a Good Candidate
Coolsculpting works best for individuals who:
- Have mild to moderate fat bulges resistant to diet and exercise.
- Possess good skin elasticity that allows natural retraction after fat reduction.
- Are near their ideal weight and want to enhance their contours non-surgically.
If loose or crepey skin is your main concern, your provider may recommend a skin-tightening procedure alone or in combination with Coolsculpting.
Conclusion
Coolsculpting is excellent for reducing fat but does not directly tighten loose skin. Patients with good elasticity may notice mild skin improvement, but for firmer, more lifted results, combining Coolsculpting with treatments like Sofwave delivers the best outcome.
At Treat Medspa, Dr. Ryan Bloch creates personalized body-contouring plans that combine fat reduction and skin tightening for smoother, natural-looking results. Whether your goal is to slim, tone, or tighten, her expertise ensures a treatment strategy tailored specifically to your body and goals.
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