How much does CoolSculpting cost?
How much does CoolSculpting cost?
$2,000 – $4,500 average cost per area
Average CoolSculpting cost
CoolSculpting costs $2,000 to $4,500 on average to treat one area. Though the average total cost per area is $3,200, CoolSculpting prices go as low as $400 to as high as $12,000+, depending on the area size, number of applicators needed, and the number of sessions. CoolSculpting is a type of cryolipolysis that involves fat freezing.
| National Average Cost | $3,200 |
| Minimum Cost | $400 |
| Maximum Cost | $12,000+ |
| Average Range | $2,000 to $4,500* |
*Average total cost to treat one area of the body
CoolSculpting price by body area
Most CoolSculpting prices are "per applicator" or "per cycle." The number of applicators needed depends on the size and shape of the treatment area. A "cycle" is each time an applicator treats an area on your body. One session may consist of one or multiple cycles, depending on the area or areas treated.
The table below details the average cost per session for several common treatment areas. The number of sessions needed varies from patient to patient.
| Treatment area | Average cost per session | Typical # of sessions |
|---|---|---|
| Abdomen / stomach | $1,000 – $2,500 | 1 – 3 |
| Arms | $1,200 – $2,500 (both arms) | 1 – 4 |
| Back fat | $1,500 – $2,500 | 1 – 3 |
| Double chin | $700 – $1,500 | 1 – 2 |
| Flanks / love handles | $1,000 – $1,500 (both sides) | 2 – 4 |
| Inner or outer thighs | Up to $2,000 (inner or outer) Up to $4,000 (inner & outer) |
2 – 3 |
What is cool sculpting?
CoolSculpting, also called cryolipolysis, is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled cooling to target and destroy fat cells. During this "fat freezing" treatment, a specialized applicator attached to the target area gently draws in the underlying tissue and freezes the fat cells. The frozen fat cells die, and the body naturally eliminates them over time.
The FDA has cleared CoolSculpting for nine treatment areas:
Abdomen / stomach area
Back fat
Bra-strap-area fat
Flanks ("love handles")
Thighs (outer, inner, distal)
Under the buttocks
Under the chin
Under the jawline
Upper arms
Is CoolSculpting safe?
CoolSculpting is considered generally safe for most people when performed by a qualified healthcare professional. A 2015 study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal found less than 1% of patients reported post-procedure complications.
Common side effects which are usually mild and temporary include redness, bruising, itching, stinging, tingling, swelling, cramping, aching, tenderness, and numbness.
Rare side effects—between 0.01% to 0.1% of patients—include severe pain, late-onset pain, and paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where the remaining fat cells increase in size after a CoolSculpting procedure.
Although CoolSculpting is safe for most people, people with the following health conditions should avoid it:
Cold agglutinin disease
Cold urticaria
Cryoglobulinemia
Obesity
Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
Raynaud’s phenomenon
What to expect during a CoolSculpting session
CoolSculpting sessions typically last 1 to 3 hours. Most treatments last 35 to 75 minutes per cycle (treatment), depending on the area. After an initial consultation where the provider creates a customized treatment plan based on your needs and goals, a typical CoolSculpting session goes like this:
The provider takes photographs to help you track your progress.
Then, they outline the treatment area and apply a gel pad to create a barrier between your skin and the applicator.
With the gel pad in place, the provider places the applicator on your body.
You typically feel intense cold and a light vacuum pressure when the treatment begins. The treatment area becomes temporarily numb after about 10 minutes.
When each treatment ends, the provider removes the applicator(s) and gel pads and massages the treated areas for about 2 minutes. This helps break up the fat cells.
Since there is little to no downtime after CoolSculpting, you can then go about with your day as normal. If your treatment plan involves multiple sessions, you would schedule the next treatment in 6 to 8 weeks.
CoolSculpting Elite machines have dual applicators that can treat two areas at the same time, reducing your total session time.
Cryolipolysis cost factors
Several factors influence the total cost of CoolSculpting or cryolipolysis, including:
Treated area size: The number and size of the applicators used determine the price of each treatment cycle. Smaller areas like the chin typically need less coverage than larger areas like the abdomen.
Number of treatments: Most patients require multiple CoolSculpting sessions to achieve desired results, increasing the overall cost.
Number of applicators used: More applicators used per session for larger areas or multiple areas will add to the cost.
Provider experience: Board-certified dermatologists or experienced plastic surgeons typically charge more than an esthetician or medical assistant.
Location: Most CoolSculpting practices in major cities charge more due to the higher facility rent and overhead.
Package deals and discounts: Many clinics offer package deals for multiple treatments or discounts for first-time patients. Allegran, the creator of CoolSculpting, also offers the Alle rewards program that allows you to save on other products or treatments from a participating provider.
Don't base your choice of where to get CoolSculpting on price alone. More experienced providers may cost more but they also have a higher level of expertise to help maximize your results.
CoolSculpting vs. other fat removal procedures
CoolSculpting has minimal side effects and little to no downtime after treatment, but it takes several months to see results. Since this procedure is just one of several fat removal procedure options available today, consider the pros and cons of each to decide which treatment is best for you:
| Treatment type | Average cost | Pros and cons |
|---|---|---|
| CoolSculpting | $500 – $2,500 per session, per area |
|
| Cryotherapy cost (Cryoslimming, Cryo T-shock) |
$250 – $450 per session |
|
| Laser lipo | $2,000 – $6,000 total per area |
|
| Emsculpt | $1,000 – $3,000 per session |
|
| SculpSure | $2,000 – $4,000 per session |
|
CoolSculpting FAQs
Does CoolSculpting really work?
Studies show CoolSculpting can effectively reduce fat cells in targeted areas by 10% to 25% in most cases. The results are permanent, meaning the destroyed fat cells are gone for good. However, a healthy diet and lifestyle are necessary to maintain the results and prevent new fat cells from forming.
CoolSculpting works best for people who are at or near their goal weight and want to enhance or contour their shape.
How long does CoolSculpting take, and how quickly do you see results?
A CoolSculpting session typically lasts 35 to 75 minutes per application, with appointments often lasting 1 to 3 hours. Many clients undergo 2 to 4 sessions per area, scheduled 6 to 8 weeks apart.
It takes 1 to 3 months to start seeing visible results, and up to 6 months to see the full results as the body eliminates the destroyed fat cells.
Does insurance cover CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is considered an elective cosmetic procedure, so health insurance policies typically do not cover it. Many CoolSculpting providers offer financing options or payment plans to spread the cost over several months if needed.
Does CoolSculpting hurt?
Most patients experience a feeling of pulling or tugging during the CoolSculpting procedure, followed by temporary numbness. Some people might feel discomfort, but pain medication is rarely necessary.
Getting estimates from a CoolSculpting provider
Before searching for a CoolSculpting provider near you, read the company's important safety information to be sure you understand the potential risks and possible side effects. Then, follow these guidelines to find an experienced, highly qualified CoolSculpting provider:
Confirm the provider is certified and trained in CoolSculpting procedures through CoolSculpting University, the official Allergan program. Look for professional certifications from reputable organizations such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Look for providers with extensive experience in CoolSculpting and a positive reputation. Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients on sites like Thervo and Google.
Schedule a consultation with the provider to discuss your goals, expectations, and any concerns you may have. Use this opportunity to assess their professionalism and expertise.
Visit the facility where the procedure will take place and ensure it is clean, modern, and well-equipped with the latest CoolSculpting technology.
Choose a provider who offers customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and body goals.
Ask to see examples of previous clients who have undergone CoolSculpting with the provider to get a realistic idea of the results you can expect.
Inquire about the cost of the procedure and any discounts or financing options available to make it more affordable for you.
Ask if they guarantee results. Some providers will retreat an area at no cost if you don't see the expected results and are within a certain range of your initial treatment day weight.
If you're getting estimates for arms or thighs, make sure you understand whether the estimate is for one or both.
Ensure the provider offers comprehensive follow-up care to monitor your progress and address any concerns after the procedure.
Questions to ask a CoolSculpting practitioner
Ask the following questions to help you choose a qualified professional who can help maximize your CoolSculpting results:
What are your qualifications and certifications in CoolSculpting?
How many years have you been performing CoolSculpting procedures?
Can you provide before and after photos of successful CoolSculpting treatments you have performed?
Am I a suitable candidate for CoolSculpting? If not, what else do you recommend?
What is the process like for a CoolSculpting treatment, from consultation to recovery?
How many treatments do you typically recommend for optimal results?
Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with CoolSculpting?
Can you provide me with a breakdown of the total cost of the procedure, including any additional fees?
Do you offer any financing options to help make the procedure more affordable?
What kind of follow-up care do you provide after the CoolSculpting treatment?
Do you guarantee results?
Are there any lifestyle changes or post-procedure instructions I should be aware of to maintain my results?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.