Patients who undergo coolsculpting of the abdomen occasionally complain of abdominal pain and swelling.
The origin of this problem appears to be related to traction on the underlying abdominal contents. Patients typically describe a dull achy pain which may be accompanied by low grade swelling.
In some cases the swelling can actually translate into small amounts of weight gain. In rare cases, patients can actually experience nausea.
These symptoms usually resolve quickly without treatment. In some cases non- steroidal anti-inflammatory agents are helpful, but most patients are symptom free within a week of the procedure without treatment.
Most patients are able to see their final result in about 3-4 months following coolsculpting. (Richard J. Bruneteau, MD, Omaha Plastic Surgeon)
Pain after Coolsculpting can occur, but over the counter pain medicines usually help. If not, contact the plastic surgeon who helped you to possibly prescribe lidodcaine patches or a mild narcotic medicine. (Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS, Baltimore Plastic Surgeon)
Discomfort after Coolsculpting
It is not uncommon to feel the discomfort you are feeling in the abdominal area 4 days after treatment. This will subside within a couple of weeks. As for the dieting, no special diet has been proven to help BUT it is always best to eat healthy and exercise. (Tom J. Pousti, MD, FACS, San Diego Plastic Surgeon)
Abdominal pain after Coolsculpting
I find that people who develop extreme hypersensitivity after Coolsculpting find that their symptoms resolve within 1-2 weeks. There are medications that can help reduce the intensity of the treatment. I would also recommend using compression. (Young R. Cho, MD, PhD, Houston Plastic Surgeon)
IS ABDOMINAL SWELLING AND PAIN NORMAL AFTER COOLSCULPTING
I have seen improvement within several days with careful use of topical anesthetics prescribed by a doctor. In a group of hundreds of patients, I have not seen any instances of pain that did not resolve.
The areas treated should improve even if your diet remains the same. If you are losing weight, the improvement could be enhanced. Most people begin to see size reduction within 4-5 weeks. (Brett S. Kotlus, MD, MS, New York Oculoplastic Surgeon)
Tenderness at abdomen after CoolSculpting
Some pain and discomfort at treated areas after CoolSculpting is common and can last up to 2 weeks. Usually, the pain can be controlled with over the counter pain medication. Rarely, your doctor may have to prescribe some medication if the pain is more severe.
Most people also experience numbness and itching. The larger applicator usually causes more discomfort post treatment than the smaller one. A strict diet is not required, but it would be a good idea to be conscious of your diet since you are making an investment.
The fat cells hat were destroyed during the treatment will slowly get processed out of your body and you should start seeing results in 2-4 months. You should always contact the provider that treated you if symptoms worsen or persist. (Steven H. Williams, MD, San Francisco Plastic Surgeon)
Can you expect stomach pain after Zeltiq CoolSculpting?
Zeltiq CoolSculpting is an excellent, non-invasive fat diminishing treatment; CoolSculpting works best on the abdomen, hips, flanks, back and bra fat area, arms, inner and out thighs, as well as the back of thighs (just under your bottucks).
In my practice, I perform multiple CoolSculpting procedures a week, and I find the procedure to be quick (approximately and hour – two) and side effects to be minimal. While redness and mild tenderness are to be expected the first 1-2 days after your CoolSculpting treatment, some side effects can stay on longer.
Some bruising, tingling, numbness, and sensitivity may continue for a full week – 10 days post-treatment. If you are unsure of your doctor’s specific orders during your recovery period, or if you feel your stomach is more tender than it should normally be – please make an appointment to see your surgeon.
While the side effects of your CoolSculpting may certainly fall into the ‘normal’ category, there is always a risk of something more, so it is best to get this check out. (Narin (Joe) Apisarnthanarax, MD, Houston Dermatologist)
Pain after Zeltiq
Typically, there is minimal to no downtime after Zeltiq though patients may experience temporary pain or discomfort. Side effects can include redness, bruising, swelling, tenderness to the touch, cramping, itching, tingling, and numbness. What you are experiencing is totally normal, and will subside in time.
You also do not need to go on any sort of strict diet, the fat that was eliminated during the treatment is now gone. (Daniel Shapiro, MD, Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon)
Tenderness after Zeltiq is common
Some soreness and tenderness is common after Zeltiq. However I find that if patients are exercising a lot, especially on the abdominal area, they will have less discomfort in this procedure. Patient selection is important.
Diet and exercise should be a part of your life before and after Zeltiq. Zeltiq consistently has good results but does not replace a healthy life style. (Michele S. Green, MD, New York Dermatologist)
Stomach soreness with Coolsculpting
Tenderness after the procedure can occur and it will subside. Make sure you communicate this with your physician so he/she is aware. Diet and exercise are definitely important to maintain results, but not required. (Michael Gold, MD, Nashville Dermatologic Surgeon)
Pain with Coolsculpting
Soreness in the area treated is not to be unexpected after doing Coolsculpting. The discomfort can last up to 2 weeks. Diet and exercise will only improve upon the results of the treatment. (Michelle Ellern, DO, Livingston Physician)
Stomach Pain After Zeltiq (CoolSculpting)
It is normal after Coolsculpting to experience some mild side effects including swelling, bruising, tenderness and cramping that can last several weeks. Implementing a healthy diet is advised. (Brian C. Reuben, MD, Salt Lake City Plastic Surgeon)
Cool Sculpting and recovery
Each area treated will behave differently afterward. Also each applicator and how much fat treated will also be a variable. The discomfort associated with the treatment should be managed with over the counter analgesics like tylenol.
If more is needed please contact your provider. (Robert Whitfield, MD, FACS, Austin Plastic Surgeon)
Tenderness after coolsculpting is very common. It can last several weeks. Try Motrin or benadryl and some heat. It just gradually fades away with time. (Kurtis Martin, MD, Cincinnati Plastic Surgeon)
It is expected to have some discomfort for a few days
Most patients have soreness for 3-4 days after the procedure but in rare cases it can last for up to two weeks. You may also experience bruising and mild cramping for a few days in addition to pins and needles like sensation.
If the discomfort does not improve for two weeks you should see your doctor for an evaluation. You may expect to have the same reaction after the second treatment which is usually done in 2-3 months.
You do not have to be on a special diet after the procedure just avoid gaining weight as usual! (Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD, FACS, Chicago Plastic Surgeon)