When CoolSculpting® first hit the market in 2010, it revolutionized the way body contouring procedures were performed. CoolSculpting is a nonsurgical treatment that freezes stubborn fat deposits with very little downtime. Almost a decade later, plastic surgeons still recommend CoolSculpting for wonderful results and outcomes.
As you research “CoolSculpting near me,” you may read about a condition called Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH). So, what is Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia? While PAH cannot be treated with diet or exercise, there are ways to address this rare condition. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaime Schwartz educates patients about this side effect of CoolSculpting in Beverly Hills, CA.
WHAT IS PARADOXICAL ADIPOSE HYPERPLASIA?
CoolSculpting uses an advanced technology called cryolipolysis to freeze and break down fat, so it is naturally expelled by the body. Most patients have mild side effects, such as temporary tingling and numbness, which only last a few days.
So, what is Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia? After CoolSculpting in Beverly Hills, a small percentage of cases cause the targeted fat to expand and harden into a lump. Here is how the term is broken down into plain language:
Paradoxical: The treated tissues grow instead of shrink, causing an unexpected, or paradoxical effect
Adipose: Fatty tissues just under the skin contain adipose cells, especially in areas like the abdomen and thighs
Hyperplasia: Refers to the abnormal increase in cells
THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PAH
The reason why patients get Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia is still not clear to many experts. This condition has been known to occur several months after the original CoolSculpting procedure and any changes are only seen in the treatment area. Tissues affected by PAH appear swollen and feel firm to the touch. The tissue may look like a stick of butter, which resembles the shape of the CoolSculpting applicator.
The only way to confirm a PAH diagnosis is to visit a board-certified plastic surgeon who is trained in CoolSculpting. During an examination, Dr. Schwartz can assess the treated area and ask questions about your CoolSculpting recovery. While some patients have tried to treat Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia with diet and exercise, this is not an effective option. Our office may recommend liposuction to address the hardened tissue.
TREATING PAH WITH LIPOSUCTION
Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia is not a life-threatening condition and can be treated with liposuction. However, patients with PAH must wait for a period of 6 – 9 months before getting the procedure. This is necessary so the fat can soften over time, making liposuction safer and more effective for you. While we understand that waiting can be difficult, liposuction is usually successful in giving patients their desired cosmetic results. In his office, Dr. Schwartz can review how to prepare for treatment.
SAFE AND SUCCESSFUL BODY SCULPTING IN BEVERLY HILLS?
Are you interested in safe body sculpting that does not leave you with the side effects of coolsculpting? Everybody deserves to love their body, and we offer a plethora of services that can help you get there. With the possible risks and complications of cryolipolysis, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaime Schwartz is happy to provide insights and resources for patients who have questions about Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia and other options to eliminate fat. To schedule an appointment for treatment of Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia AKA cryolipolysis in Beverly Hills, CA, reach out to our office today. We can review your treatment options.