CoolSculpting Elite

CoolSculpting Elite is a non-surgical fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling (cryolipolysis) to permanently eliminate stubborn fat cells in targeted areas of the body. It is FDA-cleared to treat areas resistant to diet and exercise, helping to improve body contours for a more sculpted appearance with no surgery and minimal downtime.

What are the benefits of CoolSculpting Elite?

  1. Eliminates up to 50% of treated fat cells
  2. Targets stubborn pockets of fat
  3. FDA-cleared to treat 9 areas of the body
  4. Little to no downtime

What does CoolSculpting Elite treat?

Love handles Bra fat Back fat Double chin
Muffin top
Saddle bags Banana roll

What are the FDA-Approved Treatable Areas for CoolSculpting Elite?

Flanks Abdomen Upper arm Under the jawline Under the chin
Back
Bra area Thighs
Under buttocks

What is CoolSculpting Elite?

CoolSculpting Elite is an FDA-cleared, non-surgical fat reduction treatment that eliminates up to 50% of targeted fat cells in the treated areas through a series of treatments. It is designed to treat stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise and helps improve body contours for a more sculpted appearance with no surgery and minimal downtime.

How does CoolSculpting Elite work?

CoolSculpting Elite uses cryolipolysis, a controlled cooling process that targets and freezes fat cells beneath the skin without damaging surrounding tissue. Once cooled, the treated fat cells break down and are naturally eliminated by the body over time. Sessions typically last about one to four hours depending on your treatment plan and number of areas being treated, and results are seen gradually as your body processes the targeted fat cells.
CoolSculpting Elite FAQs
  • What should I expect during a CoolSculpting Elite treatment?

    The visit starts with the provider gathering photos to track your results throughout your treatment and then mapping the treatment areas. They will then apply a clear gel pad to create a barrier between the CoolSculpting Elite applicator and your skin. Your clinician will then treat the area with the applicator. At this point, you may feel a tugging sensation as the applicator is applied as the fat tissue is drawn into the applicator cup. The applicator will cool the treatment area, and you may feel an intense cold sensation for about 10 minutes, followed by numbness.

  • What does a CoolSculpting Elite treatment feel like?

    Most patients experience slight discomfort when the CoolSculpting Elite applicators begin cooling the treatment area. You may feel pulling, tugging, mild pinching, intense cold, tingling, stinging, aching and cramping sensations at the treatment site, but these feelings tend to subside once the area is numbed during treatment.

    When the device is removed at the end of treatment, you may feel tenderness as the area “thaws” and discomfort as your clinician massages the area to break up the treated fat cells.

  • What is the difference between CoolSculpting and CoolSculpting Elite?

    Unlike CoolSculpting, CoolSculpting Elite has two applicators that are reimagined to better fit your natural curves and improve tissue contact by up to 47%.

    The Skin Center’s Mt. Lebanon, PA location is equipped with two CoolSculpting Elite machines, which allow for quad-sculpting—meaning your clinician can treat four areas at once.

  • Is there any downtime after CoolSculpting Elite?

    You can return to your normal activities immediately following your CoolSculpting Elite treatment. That said, some patients feel tingling, twitching, numbness, redness, and swelling in the treated area for the first few days. Numbness may last for several weeks as normal sensation gradually returns. On very rare occasions, some people experience temporary nerve pain that dissipates in the weeks or months following treatment.

  • Are the results from CoolSculpting Elite permanent?

    CoolSculpting Elite permanently eliminates treated fat cells through controlled cooling called cryolipolisis. Once these fat cells are removed from the body, they do not return. However, maintaining a stable weight is important, as remaining fat cells can still expand with weight gain. A healthy lifestyle helps preserve your results long term.

  • How many treatments will I need to see results?

    Results from CoolSculpting Elite treatment are typically seen four to six weeks after treatment.

    Generally speaking, patients typically need two CoolSculpting Elite sessions to reach their goals. Some patients may need additional treatments to achieve the best results.

     

  • Is CoolSculpting Elite right for me?

    The ideal candidate for CoolSculpting Elite is at or near a healthy weight and struggling to eliminate bulges or stubborn pockets of fat. CoolSculpting Elite is not a weight loss solution, and it is not appropriate for obese individuals. To learn more, schedule a complimentary consultation to determine if CoolSculpting Elite is right for you.

  • What are the benefits of CoolSculpting Elite compared to liposuction and other body contouring treatments?

    CoolSculpting Elite is a non-invasive body contouring treatment that permanently reduces stubborn fat without surgery, incisions, anesthesia, or downtime. Unlike liposuction, which is a surgical procedure that removes fat through small incisions and typically requires anesthesia as well as recovery time.

    Depending on your treatment goals and the area being treated, your provider may recommend another non-surgical body contouring option. For patients looking to reduce fat beneath the chin or improve the appearance of a double chin, Kybella is an alternative treatment to CoolSculpting Elite. As an injectable treatment option, Kybella is specifically designed to reduce fat beneath the chin and improve the appearance of a double chin.

    EmSculpt NEO combines radiofrequency heating and high-intensity electromagnetic energy (HIFEM) to reduce fat while strengthening and building muscle, making it an ideal option for patients who want improved muscle definition in areas such as the abdomen, buttocks, arms, or thighs.

    Many patients choose to combine CoolSculpting Elite with EmSculpt NEO as part of a comprehensive body contouring plan. While CoolSculpting Elite focuses on permanently reducing stubborn fat, EmSculpt NEO enhances muscle tone and definition, helping create a more sculpted overall appearance.

    During your consultation, your provider will evaluate your concerns and aesthetic goals to determine which treatment is best for you.

  • How much does CoolSculpting Elite cost at The Skin Center?

    The cost of CoolSculpting Elite varies depending on the number of treatment areas and your individual body contouring goals. Most treatment plans range from approximately $2,500 to $5,500 depending on the areas treated. At The Skin Center, we frequently offer seasonal body contouring promotions, package discounts, and special offers such as 25% off an additional area when treating multiple areas.

    Patients may also be eligible for rebates and rewards through the Alle program as well as The Skin Center Loyalty program. Because every treatment plan is customized, we recommend scheduling a complimentary consultation to receive a personalized quote and learn about current promotions that may help maximize your savings.

  • What Skin Center locations offer CoolSculpting Elite?

    CoolSculpting Elite is available at all six of our Pittsburgh-area Skin Center locations. Choose the location that’s most convenient for you:

    • North Pittsburgh (Wexford & Cranberry): Serving the Wexford, Cranberry Township, and Pine-Richland communities.
    • Pittsburgh City Proper (Shadyside): Located in the heart of the Shadyside medical and shopping district, serving Squirrel Hill, Oakland, and East Liberty.
    • East Suburbs (Murrysville): Conveniently located for patients in Murrysville, Monroeville, and Delmont.
    • South Hills & Southpointe (Mt. Lebanon & Canonsburg): Serving Scott Township, Mount Lebanon, Upper St. Clair, and Canonsburg/Cecil Township.

    No matter which location you choose, you’ll receive the same advanced CoolSculpting Elite technology and expert care.

Things to Keep In Mind for Treatment

  1. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
  2. Drink plenty of water 24 hours leading up to treatment.  
  3. Avoid unnecessary blood-thinning and anti-inflammatory medications (e.g. NSAIDs like ibuprofen), but please take all medications that are prescribed by your primary physician as you normally would.   
Learn More about pre-care
  1. You may experience nausea, stinging and/or cramping in the treatment area as your body naturally re-warms and sensation returns.
  2. The treatment areas may look or feel stiff. Temporary blanching (whitening of the skin) may also occur.   
  3. The treatment area may be red for up to a few hours after the applicator is removed.  Bruising may also occur. 
  4. You may otherwise resume all normal activities.
Learn More about post-care