Bruising is possible with the CoolSculpting treatment. One side versus both being bruised can be normal as well, sometimes it could just have to do with the fat pocket possibly being bigger so more tissue affected at once, or just the way the tissue lies in the cup or even just unknown.
I would give it at least 2 months and make sure you get your follow up pictures done to see for yourself, but it shouldn’t be just one side working and not the other. (Nancy Becker, DO, Puyallup Otolaryngologist)
Bruising on only one side after CoolSculpting to inner thighs
Bruising or redness is possible after a CoolSculpting treatment but this does not occur in most cases.
If it does occur, it is not uncommon that it would happen just on one side or sometimes both sides could be affected but one side would be worse.
Having bruising is not related to the effectiveness of the treatment, so I would not be concerned that you only had it on one side.
The bruising is a result of the suction to draw the tissue in and not from the cooling effect. (Michael I. Echavez, MD, San Francisco Facial Plastic Surgeon)
The indication of a bruise means the suction on the machine left a notable mark. It is a side effect that often happens to patients. It will go away with a couple days. It has no effect on the results.
Be sure to follow up with your practitioner in a couple months, so you can see your post procedure pictures. (Dean L. Bloch, MD, Kingston OB-GYN)
Do I need pain meds with CoolSculpting?
The majority of people who have CoolSculpting done do not require any pain medication after the procedure. Many find all the comfort they need with simple compression type garments.
Many doctors will recommend to stay away from anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen or naproxen however I have not found it to be a problem to use these medications for a few days when needed post CoolSculpting.
It is always best to discuss these types of issues with your professional who will be performing the procedure. (Paul Pietro, MD, Greenville Physician)
Pain and Discomfort with CoolSculpting is minimal and most patients do not need any pain medication. The new CoolAdvantage applicator which can be used on the flanks makes the treatment even more comfortable. (Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS, Sherman Oaks General Surgeon)
Some people don’t have any pain at all. Some increased skin sensitivity is a most common sensation. (Armen Kirakosyan, MD, FACOG, FACS, East Aurora Urogynecologist)
Discomfort after Coolsculpting usually occurs right after the procedure. It is very normal to have no pain the next day. There are some delayed pain syndromes after Coolsculpting but they are very rare. (Lawrence Broder, MD, Cedar Park Family Physician)
Non-invasive treatment of flanks
CoolSculpting is commonly used to reduce fat in the flanks (love handles). Sometimes, more than one session is needed to obtain the desired result. An alternative, non-invasive option would be SculpSure. Prices will vary by physician.
An examination of you would be needed to determine if you might be a good candidate for the procedure. (Michael I. Echavez, MD, San Francisco Facial Plastic Surgeon)
Bruising does not determine the results at all. Different areas can react differently. (Janet Allenby, DO, Delray Beach Dermatologic Surgeon)