• Home
• Laser Institute of Wisconsin™
• CoolSculpting®

CoolSculpting®

Many people have stubborn fat despite diet and exercise. CoolSculpting is an innovative treatment that reduces fat by freezing it away. Men and women from Wisconsin and Michigan have been coming to Fox Valley Plastic Surgery for CoolSculpting since 2011. FVPS was the first to offer CoolSculpting, and has performed the most CoolSculpting procedures in the area. In addition to being a CoolSculpting certified practice, FVPS also offers very competitive pricing. With over 7 million CoolSculpting treatments performed worldwide, discover why so many people have chosen this method of sculpting their bodies without surgery and downtime.

To find out more about this innovative fat reduction treatment, request a complimentary CoolSculpting consultation or call the Laser Institute of Wisconsin™, created by Fox Valley Plastic Surgery, at (920) 233-1540. Women and men visit us for CoolSculpting from Green Bay, Sheboygan, Appleton, Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, Neenah, and surrounding communities.

Pricing

Fox Valley Plastic Surgery cannot post its CoolSculpting prices online because of minimum advertising rules. The price for CoolSculpting varies depending on your areas of concern, the number of sessions needed, and your ultimate goals.  A quote on the phone is just a wild guess, so please call for a no-obligation pressure-free consultation.

Minimum advertised pricing (MAP) rules prevent us from posting our office specials on CoolSculpting.  Please do not ask us for a price on the phone either.  We do not know if we are being audited by the manufacturer of CoolSculpting, and cannot risk the penalty of being caught advertising below the minimum advertised price.

While cost should always be a factor in a patient’s decision, there are other factors to consider.

• Has the office properly evaluated me for being a proper candidate?
• Does the office have alternatives available, and have they educated me on them as well?
• Has the office done enough procedures to have developed a knowledge of how many treatments are needed, and where the applicator needs to be placed?
• Do they truly believe in the procedure?  Have they had it done to themselves?
• Do they have before and after photos of real patients?

Being in the forefront of this technology for over 5 years, Fox Valley Plastic Surgery has an exceptionally skilled and experienced staff who are trained to best administer the treatment.  The technicians have undergone the treatments, and can fully describe the treatment and recovery process. Although Fox Valley Plastic Surgery has performed the most sessions of any provider in the area, it has never had any patients with permanent negative effects, while it has hundreds of satisfied patients.

How It Works

CoolSculpting technology safely delivers precisely controlled cooling to gently and effectively target the fat cells underneath the skin. The treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen) and then die. Over time, the body naturally processes the fat and eliminates the dead cells to leave a more sculpted body. Once eliminated from the body, treated fat cells are permanently gone. Untreated areas have no change in fat cell distribution.

Fat Reduction vs. Weight Loss

Weight loss and fat reduction are not the same thing. When we lose weight, our fat cells become smaller, but the number of fat cells remains the same. When we gain weight, those fat cells become larger again. After the CoolSculpting procedure, the treated areas actually have fewer fat cells. And unlike what happens with other procedures, there is no change in fat cell distribution in untreated areas. CoolSculpting actually reduces the number of fat cells in the treated areas. Fat cells that are no longer present, cannot get bigger. Whether or not you weigh less, you will be thinner and clothes will fit better. Many people, after seeing the results from their CoolSculpting procedure, take better care of themselves. However, if they do gain weight, the weigh is gained evenly all over the body and not just in the treated areas.

Patients can reduce fat on multiple areas of the body with the CoolSculpting procedure. Typical areas that can be treated are the chin, flanks, abdomen, thighs, and other stubborn areas of fat. Multiple applications are usually needed to obtain optimal results. A personal consultation is the best way to determine the amount of applications needed to address the area(s) of concern. In the US, the CoolSculpting procedure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in the submental area, thigh, abdomen, and flank. As the #1 non-invasive fat reduction procedure and with millions of CoolSculpting procedures performed worldwide, it is proven to be a safe and effective treatment.

Best Candidates

The CoolSculpting fat reduction procedure is specially designed for those who have unwanted fat that resists diet and exercise. Although men and women tend to show fat in different areas, the CoolSculpting procedure works for both men and women. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, the CoolSculpting procedure is not a weight loss solution for people who are obese. It is not a treatment for obesity. It is, however, a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. Good candidates have noticeable bulges in certain areas. People who suffer from cryoglobulinemia, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, or cold agglutinin disease are not candidates for the procedure.

Chemotherapy and radiation treatments can make the skin very dry, thin and vulnerable due to the rapid dying of cell tissue. During and up to one year after completing all oncology medical treatments, only gentle hydrating and restorative treatments can be performed on the skin surface. This would disqualify almost all the services of the Renaissance Medispa and the Laser Institute of Wisconsin™. If you have concerns, please address them with your medical provider. It is always best to err on the side of caution in treating compromised skin.

Preparing for the Procedure

Five days before the procedure, patients should discontinue vitamin E, ibuprofen and any other anti-inflammatory drugs because they can promote bruising. Do not drink too many liquids prior to the treatment because once the applicator is on, it is not possible to stop for a bathroom break. Patients can drive themselves home after the session so they do not need a driver.

Depending on the length of the session, patients should bring something to help them pass the time, such as a book, computer, knitting, etc. Bring a lunch or a snack if the appointment is for several applications. Because gel is used in the procedure, patients should wear loose and comfortable clothes that can be stained. A long sleeve T shirt is ideal. Disposable panties are provided if needed. Patients should wear comfortable warm socks. Are you ready to discuss CoolSculpting for yourself? Contact Fox Valley Plastic Surgery today at (920) 233-1540 to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Procedure

Prior to the procedure, patients are weighed and photographed. Then the body is marked to indicate the placement of the applicator. The applicator is positioned on the body, and controlled cooling is applied. As the cooling begins, patients will feel pressure and intense cold from the applicator during the first few minutes. The suction pressure of the vacuum applicator may cause sensations of deep pulling, tugging and pinching. The surface applicator may cause sensations of pressure. Patients may experience intense stinging, tingling, aching or cramping as the treatment begins. These sensations generally subside as the area becomes numb.

During the procedure, patients can read, check email, or even take a nap. The length of a CoolSculpting session varies depending on the number of areas being treated during one visit. Expect to spend 1.5 hours in the office for one application. Almost all patients need more than one application; add 1 hour for each additional application. Patients can take bathroom breaks between applications, and can eat and drink during the treatment.

On average, each CoolSculpting procedure results in a 22% reduction of fat in the treated area. When the applicator is removed, the treated area may look or feel stiff, and transient blanching (temporary whitening of the skin) may occur. The technician will manually massage the treated area. Patients may feel a sense of nausea or dizziness as the body naturally warms and sensation returns to the treatment area. These are all normal reactions that typically resolve within minutes. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness can occur in the treated area, and it may appear red for a few hours after the applicator is removed. Patient experiences differ. Some patients breeze through the treatment, while others may experience a delayed onset of the previously mentioned occurrences. Although uncommon, it is best for patients to be aware of the worst reactions of the treatment so that they can better cope.

Recovery

The procedure is non-surgical, so patients can resume normal behavior immediately. Normal activities can resume as tolerated. The treated areas will be swollen. In addition, patients may experience deep itching, tingling, numbness, tenderness to the touch, pain in the treated area, strong cramping, muscle spasms, aching, soreness and/or a burning sensation. This can last 2-4 weeks. For some patients the most difficult part of the recovery period comes 4-7 days after the procedure. Depending on the amount of applications and individual pain tolerance, narcotic medication may be needed.

In the first week, avoid activities with jarring movement, such as running, tennis, and dancing. Patients are recommended to not travel for a month after the procedure in case they recover slowly or are uncomfortable. This is an individual choice because some patients recover quickly. Other patients remain swollen for a month, and do not want to go shirtless or wear a bathing suit for several weeks. Patients who have had CoolSculpting in their abdomens, may prefer to wear loose clothing with low rise pants. Other patients prefer to wear Spanx in the treated areas to minimize movement.

In the weeks and months to follow, the body naturally processes and eliminates the treated fat cells. Patients may start to see changes as quickly as three weeks after treatment, and will experience the most dramatic results after one to three months. The body will continue to naturally flush out injured fat cells for 4-6 months after the treatment. Weight gain will prevent patients from appreciating their full results. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine after the procedure can help prevent this. Get your questions answered at a complimentary consultation by contacting Fox Valley Plastic Surgery today at (920) 233-1540 to schedule a free consultation.

Potential Risks

During the procedure patients may experience deep pulling, tugging, pinching, numbness or discomfort. Following the procedure, typical side effects include temporary numbness, redness, swelling, bruising, firmness, tingling, stinging and pain. In rare cases, patients have experienced vasovagal symptoms during the treatment, and reported freeze burn, darker skin color, hardness, discrete nodules or enlargement of the treatment area. Surgical intervention may be required to correct the enlargement. Treatment may cause new hernia formation or exacerbate pre-existing hernia, which may require surgical repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION: Am I a good candidate?
ANSWER: Good candidates have noticeable bulges in certain areas they’d like to get rid of. The CoolSculpting fat reduction procedure is specifically designed for those who have unwanted fat that resists diet and exercise. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, the CoolSculpting procedure is not a weight loss solution for people who are obese. It is, however a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. Request a one-on-one consultation with us to determine if the CoolSculpting procedure is right for you.

QUESTION: How much does the CoolSculpting procedure cost?
ANSWER: The price for CoolSculpting procedures varies depending on your areas of concern, the number of sessions needed, and your ultimate goals. We will help create a customized treatment plan, in person, that’s tailored to your body, your goals, and your budget.

QUESTION: How long is each session? How many sessions will I need?
ANSWER: We will help you create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific goals. The length of your CoolSculpting session will vary depending on the number of areas being treated during one visit. We may schedule additional sessions in order to meet your goals.

QUESTION: Where does the fat go? Are the results permanent?
ANSWER: Once the treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), your body processes the fat and eliminates these dead cells. Once the treated fat cells are gone, they’re gone for good.

QUESTION: What does it feel like?
ANSWER: As the cooling begins during the first few minutes, you will feel pressure and intense cold. This soon dissipates. Many people read, watch videos, work on their laptop, or even take a nap during their treatment.

QUESTION: Is the CoolSculpting procedure safe?
ANSWER: The CoolSculpting procedure is FDA-cleared for the flank (love handles), abdomen, and thigh. With over one million CoolSculpting treatments performed worldwide, it is proven to be a safe and effective treatment for non-surgical fat reduction.

QUESTION: Are there any side effects?
ANSWER: During the procedure you may experience deep pulling, tugging, pinching, numbness or discomfort. Following the procedure, typical side effects include temporary numbness, redness, swelling, bruising, firmness, tingling, stinging and pain. Rare side effects may also occur. The CoolSculpting procedure is not for everyone. You should not have the CoolSculpting procedure if you suffer from cryoglobulinemia or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria. The CoolSculpting procedure is not a treatment for obesity. As with any medical procedure, ask us if the CoolSculpting procedure is right for you.

QUESTION: Can I return to normal activities after my treatment?
ANSWER: Yes, you can. The CoolSculpting procedure is completely non-surgical, so typically you can return to normal activities immediately. Often times, patients return to work after their CoolSculpting session is over.

QUESTION: When will I see results?
ANSWER: You may start to see changes as quickly as three weeks after your treatment, and will experience the most dramatic results after two months. But your body will still flush out fat cells and continues doing so for up to four to six months after treatment.

QUESTION: Do I need to take special supplements or follow a strict diet and exercise program?
ANSWER: No supplements or pills are required and you do not have to adopt new diet and exercise habits. Many patients feel more motivated to take care of themselves after their CoolSculpting treatment. It is as if they get a second lease on their body and want to start anew again by taking even better care of themselves.

QUESTION: What happens if I gain weight down the road?
ANSWER: Many people, after seeing the results from their CoolSculpting procedure, take even better care of themselves. However, if you do gain weight, you may gain it evenly all over your body, not just in the treated areas.

Consultation

At your free personal consultation, the staff will create a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your body, your goals, and your budget. The sooner you set up your consultation, the sooner you will see results in the mirror—in those areas that have resisted all efforts through diet and exercise. Find out if the CoolSculpting fat freezing procedure is right for you by requesting your consultation online or calling the office at (920) 233-1540 to set up your appointment.