The Dangers of CoolSculpting PAH Treatment

While CoolSculpting remains popular, the treatment can come with the risk of developing several complications like PAH. We do not utilize CoolSculpting because of this, instead using safer non-surgical methods for achieving body contouring results. But, we do provide treatment for complications from CoolSculpting, specifically treating a common side effect called PAH.

What Is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is a method of non-invasive body sculpting that uses a cooling device to freeze and destroy fat cells. While most people do not experience side effects, a growing number of patients are coming to us from other cosmetic surgeons with complications from their treatment. One of the biggest complaints that patients have about CoolSculpting complications is called PAH.

What Is PAH?

PAH stands for “paradoxical adipose hyperplasia,” which is a condition that is now commonly called the “stick of butter” effect. PAH happens when the fat cells that were treated with CoolSculpting expand significantly and harden, resulting in a large bulge where the treatment was applied. It is estimated to occur in about 0.2-3% of patients who undergo this procedure.

At Gabbay Plastic Surgery, we specialize in treating PAH and other complications from CoolSculpting to help prevent your experience from becoming worse.

While PAh is not known to be a health risk, that does not lessen the impact it can have on a patient’s life. The hardened pockets of fat can make it difficult to feel confident about one’s body, affecting one’s quality of life and mental health overall. We strive to help patients affected by this condition and give them back a sense of control and pride in their bodies.

Why Does CoolSculpting Cause PAH?

The exact cause of PAH is still unknown, but it has been linked to certain techniques and devices used in CoolSculpting. For instance, PAH is more likely to occur when the device is set at a higher temperature for too long or if there are large areas being treated with the same suction cup. If a patient had the procedure performed by an inexperienced or unauthorized practitioner, these factors could increase the risk of developing complications from CoolSculpting like PAH. However, there is no guaranteed way to predict whether or not a patient will experience PAH as a side effect of CoolSculpting.

Our Treatment for PAH

Treating PAH requires an in-depth understanding of the body’s natural structures and how they respond to treatments like CoolSculpting. Dr. Gabbay uses a combination of approaches based on your individual situation to find the best path for removing or breaking down the hardened fat from PAH. Liposuction performed by a board-certified surgeon will always be the most consistent way to eliminate unwanted fat, and by adapting techniques to deal with hardened fat, Dr. Gabbay aims to help patients overcome PAH and restore their bodies.

An Alternative to CoolScupting

At Gabbay Plastic Surgery, we offer a safer, faster, and effective alternative to CoolSculpting called SculpSure. Instead of using cold, it uses a thermal applicator for results that are just as effective as CoolSculpting, but they also appear sooner and with less risk of complications. Its unique applicator also allows for greater flexibility in treatment, allowing patients to treat a wider range of body areas.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you believe you are affected by PAH after CoolSculpting, then we recommend setting up a consultation with Dr. Gabbay, a premier plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. During your consultation, he will assess the situation and create a custom treatment plan tailored to help you see results that boost confidence rather than break it down. Call us today to get started on eliminating expanded and hardened body fat from PAH.