Are you considering a slimmer look to your upper arms? Then you may be interested in learning more about CoolSculpting for arms and other problem areas.
Everyone has specific areas of their body that are slower to respond to diet and exercise. Usually, those areas are what people consider their “problem” areas. For some, it’s their belly; for others, it’s their thighs; and for many people, the upper arms are a “problem area.” If your arms make you feel self-conscious, you may find yourself wearing long sleeves even in the summer. Imagine feeling comfortable and confident when wearing a tank top or sleeveless top.
CoolSculpting® is a non-invasive procedure used to reduce fat in targeted areas, including the upper arms. This revolutionary technology freezes and destroys fat cells without the need for surgery or downtime.
The FDA cleared CoolSculpting to safely and effectively remove targeted body fat from several specific areas of the body, including:
- Upper arms
- Beneath the chin or double chin
- Abdomen or belly
- Love handles or the hip and flank
- Lower back
- The upper back sometimes called bra fat
- Inner and outer thighs
- Underneath the buttocks
Sometimes CoolSculpting® is used for other areas as well. Talk with your provider for results.
How CoolSculpting® Works
CoolSculpting® is performed by placing a handheld device, or applicator, on the targeted area. The applicator cools the skin and underlying tissue, freezing the fat cells. You may feel a tugging or pulling sensation since the device gently pulls the rolls to better target the fat cells.
According to CoolSculpting®, in the weeks following a CoolSculpting® treatment session, fat cells will break down and be eliminated by the body resulting in up to 20-25% reduction of fat in the targeted area.
The results from CoolSculpting® are not immediate. You will begin to see results a couple of weeks after your treatment, and the full results unfold within a couple of months. As the body naturally releases the dead fat cells, you see the results emerge.
In addition to killing fat cells, CoolSculpting® may also help keep the skin tight. In fact, the FDA cleared CoolSculpting as a treatment to help address tissue laxity in the chin area. This may be good news if you want to remove extra fat in your upper arms since fat loss can also result in loose skin. If this is a concern, talk with your provider about which treatments may help tighten your skin.
Who is a Good Candidate for CoolSculpting®?
CoolSculpting® was created to address specific areas of stubborn fat that are not responsive to diet and exercise. Depending on your body type, the upper arms are a common “trouble spot.” It isn’t a substitute for weight loss through diet or for obesity. You may be a good candidate if you are within 10 – 20 pounds of your ideal weight range.
It’s also important to have realistic expectations of your potential results. During a consultation, your CoolSculpting provider may show you before and after photographs of their prior patients so you can see what kind of results are typical.
Like any elective procedure, it works best if you are generally healthy and a non-smoker.
What to Expect While Getting CoolSculpting for Arms
A single CoolSculpting treatment usually takes around 35 to 75 minutes, depending on the specific area targeted. You can treat one or two areas with a session lasting anywhere from one to three hours. Depending on your desired results, you may need more than one treatment to meet your aesthetic goals.
The applicator your provider uses may kind of resemble an elongated handheld vacuum cleaner. Your provider will apply a gel pad to the targeted area (or areas), then place the applicator over, and shortly you will feel a gentle suction and cooling. This begins the fat-freezing process. Then you sit back and relax while the machine does all the work.
CoolSculpting isn’t painful to most people, but you may experience tugging, pulling, cooling, or even tingling sensations. During your treatment, you can relax, read, stream a show, or listen to music.
Right after treatment, you may experience side effects for a few days. Some of the most common include:
- Tenderness and aching
- Redness and swelling
- Bruising
There are rare potential side effects like damage to the ulnar nerve or other nerves and enlarged fat cells. Seeking treatment from a skilled and experienced provider minimizes the risk of preventable side effects. Most side effects are temporary and go away as the body heals.
Maintaining Your CoolSculpting® Results
The fat lost through CoolSculpting® is permanent, but that doesn’t mean you can’t gain additional body fat. To maintain your results, follow a balanced diet with lean protein and fruits and vegetables. Stay active and maintain a consistent workout schedule. Maintaining your weight can help you keep your results throughout your life.
Wherever you go outside, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from premature aging. This may not seem relevant, but sun damage causes the skin to lose elasticity and eventually look saggy. While CoolSculpting® helps keep the skin tight, preventing sun damage will also help.
Next Steps: Schedule a Consultation
If you want to smooth unwanted bulges on your upper arm, then you may be a good candidate for CoolSculpting for arms.
Sometimes a patient comes in asking about one procedure, and when it turns out, another may be a better fit for the needs, goals, and budget. Be sure to inform your provider of your goals, hopes, concerns, and your medical history. Doing this helps ensure the best results possible whether you opt for CoolSculpting® or another treatment.
The Skin Center by CPS proudly serves Charlotte-area residents who want to look their best. We are part of the Charlotte Plastic Surgery family that has served the community for decades restoring and transforming our patient’s appearances.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Smoother, more toned-looking arms are around the corner for you. Imagine facing the world with confidence whenever you take your shirt off or wear a bathing suit or sleeveless clothing.
