Avoid Anti-Inflammatory Medications

• Avoid taking aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen) for at least 1 week before your treatment. These can increase the risk of bruising.

Hydrate

• Drink plenty of water before the treatment. Hydration helps your body function optimally, and while CoolSculpting doesn’t directly affect hydration, it can improve your comfort during the session.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

• Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to your appointment for CoolSculpting in Rockville. Since the area being treated may be covered with an applicator for an extended period, loose clothing will help with comfort afterward.

Shave the Treatment Area

• If your treatment area is in a region like your abdomen or thighs, it’s helpful to shave the area before your appointment (ideally 24 hours before). This makes the treatment more comfortable and helps the applicator contact the skin more effectively.

No Tanning or Sunburn

• Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks before the treatment, as sunburned or tanned skin can increase the risk of side effects. If you plan to be outdoors, wear sunscreen.

Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine

• Limit alcohol and caffeine for at least 24 hours before the treatment to help with circulation and avoid dehydration.

Consult About Medications & Health Conditions

• Inform us of any health conditions or medications you are taking, especially if they might affect circulation, like blood thinners. Dr. Faulkner can offer advice on whether any adjustments are needed.

Plan for Recovery

• While CoolSculpting typically has little to no downtime, you may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising. It’s a good idea to plan for a day of rest after the treatment, though most people resume normal activities immediately.

Expect Redness, Swelling, or Bruising

• Mild redness, swelling, bruising, or a feeling of firmness in the treated area is common and should subside within a few hours to days. These are normal reactions and should not cause concern.

Avoid Heat & Excessive Pressure

• Avoid hot showers, saunas, or hot tubs for at least 24 hours after treatment to reduce irritation in the treated area. Also, avoid tight clothing or anything that might put pressure on the treated area.

Stay Active

• While it’s good to avoid strenuous exercise right after treatment, light activities like walking can help boost circulation and help your body process the eliminated fat. You can return to your normal exercise routine after a couple of days, depending on how you feel.

Massage the Area

• Massaging the treated area as instructed may help speed up the fat cell elimination process.

Monitor for Side Effects

• It’s rare, but some patients may experience paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where fat cells grow rather than shrink. This is more common in men and should be monitored closely. If you notice any unusual side effects after CoolSculpting in Rockville, such as persistent pain or large lumps, contact Dr. Faulkner immediately.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

• Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen will help you maintain the results of CoolSculpting. While the fat cells that are eliminated do not regenerate, any remaining fat cells in the treated area could still grow if you gain weight.

No Alcohol or Excessive Caffeine

• For 24 to 48 hours after the procedure, avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, as these can dehydrate your body and affect recovery.

Follow-Up Treatments

• It is common for patients to opt for multiple sessions to achieve optimal results, depending on the area treated. Sessions are usually spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Dr. Faulkner will guide you on how many treatments are necessary for your goals.