You want to get the absolute most out of your CoolSculpting® treatment, of course, so is massage something you should make sure is included in your appointment? Studies have found that massage after CoolSculpting can help to improve your results in the long run. But that’s not the only thing you can do to help ensure maximum results from nonsurgical body contouring.
Consider this your guide to optimizing your post-CoolSculpting routine so you can see the best possible results.
Post-CoolSculpting Massage
There is evidence that massage immediately following CoolSculpting treatment can improve your outcome by as much as 68 percent in the first two months and 44 percent by month four. The idea is that the massage helps to break down the treated fat cells to speed up the elimination process. Studies found no evidence of adverse reactions or complications as a result of post-CoolSculpting massage.
This massage is typically performed by your CoolSculpting provider for about two minutes directly after your treatment. During your consultation, ask your provider if this is something that he or she performs and whether or not it is recommended that you continue massages at home.
Sometimes, wearing a compression garment in the first few weeks after CoolSculpting can help to reduce swelling and speed up the healing process. Ask your provider if this is something that he or she recommends and, if so, how long you should wear it.
You may be encouraged to massage the area once or twice per day for a week or two after treatment for continued benefits.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Remember that CoolSculpting isn’t meant to stand in as a substitute for healthy lifestyle habits like eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise. So pairing your fat-freezing treatment with healthy choices will help you get the most out of CoolSculpting and reach your fitness goals.
Fuel your body with nutritious meals full of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and try to limit the amount of refined sugar, simple carbs and processed food you’re eating.
While CoolSculpting doesn’t require any formal downtime afterward, it’s okay to give your body some time to rest and recharge. But make sure you get back to your normal exercise routine when you’re feeling up to it. This will not only help you get the best results you can, but to also keep those same results for years to come.
Proper Hydration
Staying hydrated is an important part of your overall health any time, but it’s especially important after your CoolSculpting treatment. Increased water intake may help your body to flush away the treated fat cells more efficiently. Proper hydration also helps to maximize your body’s natural healing process.
Consider a Follow-up Treatment
Many people see amazing body contouring results after a single CoolSculpting session. However, in some cases, a second treatment may help to enhance your results even further. The best way to know for sure if you might be able to benefit from a second CoolSculpting treatment is to schedule a follow-up visit with your provider.
He or she can assess the results that you’ve achieved so far and help you determine whether or not another treatment session may help. Keep in mind that it can take up to 3 months to see your final results after CoolSculpting, although some people may notice improvements in their body shape in as little as 3 weeks.
Dr. Martin E. Everhard, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.S., enjoyed a distinguished career in general surgery at Phelps Memorial Hospital Center, Westchester County, New York. After settling in Savannah, Georgia, he retired from general surgery to work with weight loss patients. This new focus on health and body contouring led to him opening CoolBodyContouring in October of 2014, home to Savannah’s premier CoolSculpting® specialists.
