From the archive: The original post below reflects its publication date. The source-linked safety update provides additional context; ask the practice about current products and availability.
Friday, July 25th 2014
I am NOT the first to jump at the “newest, latest, and greatest” thing that comes along. If it’s just been shown on The Doctors, I probably don’t have it yet. That’s because a lot of the newest things aren’t really improvements on what we already have. They just have more catchy names.
The other problem is that, for many new cosmetic devices, the marketing has preceded the science. Yes, the company may have shown that the device is safe and has some effect, but they likely haven’t invested in long-term follow up. They may be able to show immediate results, but what about a year after the treatment? Are there still any results? Or are you right back to where you started before you ever had that treatment done?
So I’m reluctant to offer a new treatment with a new device until I know it really works and that it’s truly something different. There has to be some advantage to using it, as opposed to doing what we already do.
Liposuction is tried and true. It removes fat permanently. Results and recovery vary. But it’s surgery, and it leaves (little) scars, and it requires some type of anesthesia. And there’s swelling and some pain and bruising as well. For people seeking a non-surgical approach, fat freezing may be an option after an assessment.
That’s exactly why CoolSculpting is part of my practice. The science was there long before the marketing started. And we have 4 year follow up photos showing lasting results! Results vary. It can reduce localized fat without incisions, but side effects and complications remain possible. Ask about both benefits and risks.
With CoolSculpting, you can trim belly fat, muffin tops, thighs, arms, bra rolls (those pesky rolls that hang out from under your bra on your back); treatment areas and recovery depend on the device, applicator, and individual assessment. Treated fat cells may be reduced, but body shape can still change with weight changes and aging. And I wouldn’t have it in my office if I didn’t believe in it fully. I want you to love your results!
Here are some results from CoolSculpting treatments done in my office:
You can find some of our other results here. What’s not to love?
Yours in Health and Beauty,
Dr. Kavali
Fat-freezing risks and realistic expectations
Fat freezing treats localized bulges; it is not a weight-loss or obesity treatment. Pain, bruising, swelling, and prolonged numbness can occur. Less common complications include burns and paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where treated fat enlarges rather than shrinks and may require surgery. Tell your clinician about cold-sensitivity conditions and any hernia or weakness in the treatment area.
Source: FDA non-invasive body contouring guidance.
Editorial update, October 2, 2026: AI-assisted edits clarify the safety information above using the linked sources. This update is not a clinician medical review or individual treatment advice.
