The CoolSculpting procedure for non-invasive fat reduction uses cold therapy, in a process termed cryolipolysis, to permanently remove fat cells without surgery. The hand piece is placed on the area to be treated, such as the stomach or love handles, and two plates on either side drop the temperature to a degree cold enough to freeze the fat cells, without causing any damage to the skin. Once the fat cells are frozen, over time they go through a controlled process wherein they crystallize, die, and are flushed out of the system.

CoolSculpting isn't for those looking to remove large amounts of fat, rather, it only affects a thin layer of fat and is intended for those in otherwise good health who have some spots of fat they'd like to see removed. Results take several months to see, and treatment takes one hour per area. The number of treatments needed varies, and many offices are suggested around 4 treatments for optimal results. Zeltiq results are not those of surgery but for patients who want to remove a spot of fat and don't want to go through surgery, it may be ideal.

Prices vary by region and most offices are offering second treatment discounts and package deals. On average, expect to pay around $700 per treatment, and if you're looking at the package of 4, it can drop as low as $500 for each session. The highest we saw was in New York where one office charges $800/treatment and the lowest we saw was in Florida at $475/treatment.

Actual results of Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick and Dr. William Groff of La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre