CoolShaping & CoolSculpting: Fat Reduction Without Surgery

CoolSculpting™ and CoolShaping™ have become increasingly popular treatments to get rid of unwanted fat without surgery. We are going to explain what each procedure entails, who is an ideal candidate, and what are the costs around the world.

A non-surgical fat-reduction treatment based on freezing: Cryolipolysis

CoolSculpting and CoolShaping are based on the science of cryolipolysis.

Cryolipolysis is a non-surgical medical treatment used to destroy fat cells. The word derives from “cryo” (icy cold) and “lipolysis” (the destruction of fat). As the name suggests, cryolipolysis is a cold-based technology that involves a non-invasive device that is applied to a specific area and cools the fat cells, which are then crystallized. The crystallized cells are then naturally, yet slowly, metabolized by the body.

What is the difference between CoolShaping and CoolSculpting?

While both CoolSculpting and CoolShaping rely on the science of cryolipolysis, they differ in what device is used for the treatment. As a matter of fact, they represent two different producers that designed and patented two different devices. CoolSculpting and CoolShaping devices fundamentally follow the same procedure, but with CoolShaping two different areas can be treated at the same time since there are two applicators. Moreover, CoolShaping features an integrated LED technology, which supports complementary treatment, such as skin tightening.

How do CoolSculpting and CoolShaping work?

The whole procedure does not involve sedation, needles, or downtime. During the procedure, the area to be treated is covered with a gel pad to protect the skin and a cooling applicator cup is applied. The applicator cup creates a vacuum to draw excess skin and underlying fat and delivers controlled cooling conditions to eliminate fat cells. Dead fat cells are then metabolized by your body naturally over time.

The procedure typically lasts between 45 and 60 minutes per site and can be performed in different areas of your body, such as thighs, abdomen, love handles, under the buttocks and under the chin. It is typically recommended to undergo 2-3 sessions, one every 30 days. The procedure is proven not to damage surrounding nerves, blood vessels and other tissues.

What results can you expect?

Results are visible after 2 to 4 months, with a gradual reduction of the fat layer. Fat cells will be processed by your body for approximately 4 months after the procedure. Up to 20-30% of fat reduction is typically achieved on the treated area.

How much do CoolSculpting and CoolShaping cost?

Prices of CoolSculpting and CoolShaping vary greatly across geographies. While the highest average price was found in the US (1700€ per area), neighboring country Mexico offers the same procedure for 250€ per area. Below an overview of average prices per area in different countries:

Am I an ideal candidate?

Ideal candidates for cryolipolysis only have little-unwanted fat in areas like upper thighs, love handles or lower belly. CoolSculpting and CoolShaping patients ideally look for mild improvements and are not obese, as dense fat cannot be treated successfully with cryolipolysis. The fat should be “pinchable”, which means that the fat is located under the skin and as such can fit into the applicator cup. Cryolipolysis is not designed for major fat removal; in these cases, liposuction may be a more viable option.