I am a traditionally trained General / Plastic Surgeon who, up until now, did not buy into any of the “miracle”, non-invasive machines that promised great results for patients.  I am very conservative with what I offer to my patients wanting to make sure that the patient will have results that they are happy with.  I heard about CoolSculpting by Zeltiq and did my own research on the machine and the company.  I try to keep up to date with new technologies.  I wanted to see first hand what the experience / results would be and how the Coolsculpting technology by Zeltiq would work on stubborn (diet and exercise resistant) adipose tissue of the upper and lower abdomen.

I had the procedure performed on areas of adipose tissue my upper and lower abdomen.  To determine if I was a good candidate, I was asked to “pinch” the area that I was concerned with and it was determined that the small applicator would work well on this area.  I was placed in a comfortable bed and the procedure was performed on me in the supine (laying down) position. A very cold gel was applied to the skin and the suction applicator was placed on the skin and adipose tissue that could be grasped with two hands. The suction device, I found, was quite strong, creating a sensation of pulling/suction that was, for the first minute, uncomfortable. This sense of strong suction/pulling gradually dissipated after 1-2 minutes to the point where I could ignore it and read. The procedure lasted one hour.  During this hour, a patient can read, sleep, watch T.V. or do work if they like.

There is a “call button” on the machine so if I needed the staff to assist me for any reason, I would just push that button and it would page the staff.  I was asked to not twist around or get up as this may cause the applicator to lose suction and therefore the procedure would need to be restarted. Towards the end of the hour, the Coolsculping machine changed to a “massage” mode which lasted for a few minutes and then at the end of the hour mark, the suction applicator was removed.  When the applicator was removed, it left the area treated looking elevated and red, with the appearance of a large stick of butter. The area was very cold to touch.  Manual massage was performed after the applicator was removed and then we were finished.

After the procedure, for the first few days, I felt tenderness to the touch, sensing that the machine did its job at creating “damage” to the adipose tissue layer. When I ran and /or when the area was touched, it was tender.  I resumed my normal routine of working and exercising with no problems. After approximately two weeks, I no longer had any tenderness or lasting impression that the treatment had been performed. After about three weeks post treatment, I started to notice definite decreased volume in the area treated. This was easily visible and palpable to me with definite decrease adipose tissue able to be pinched in the area treated. At this point (approximately one month out of treatment) I am convinced that this technology does work and will be a nice addition to the practice.

1. No driving for 2-3 weeks post surgery or until off narcotic pain medication completely.

2. Sleeping in an upright reclined position for 1-2 weeks.

3. No reaching out or above for atleast 3-4 weeks.

4. Please take the medications as directed. Antibiotic medication is for 3 days, pain, valium and nausea medication are taken as needed. Never on an empty stomach and always space out the medications.

5. Constipation is very common due to the pain medication and anesthesia, please use Colace over the counter or any laxative that has worked with you in the past. You may start taking something to help prevent constipation 2-3 days post surgery.

6. If you develop a rash or think you are having an allergic reaction to the medication please call our office immediately. Sometimes Benadryl will help.

7. No upper body exercising for 8-12 weeks post surgery.

8. No showers for 2-3 weeks post surgery or until drains are removed. No ocean water or pool water for 12 weeks post surgery or until the incisions are fully healed.

9. No tanning or sun exposure to the incision until the incision has healed completely.

10. Please do not put scar creams or ointments on the incision immediately after surgery, you may irritate the area or cause an allergic reaction.

11. With this procedure you will have 1-2 drains under each incision site auxiliary area. Drains are removed when ready. Usually the drainage out put needs to be less the 20 cc within a 24hr period.

12. Drains are ready at about 2-6 weeks post surgery. Please be patient during this process.

13. To make sure there is no seromas after drain removal, please come in for your follow up appointments to be examined by doctor.       Signs of a Seroma “fluid production” are palpable pocket of fluid, dizziness, feeling light headed, abnormal temperature, fever and       chills.

14. Incision line for Pectoral implant augmentation is located under the auxiliary area. Please avoid applying deodorant of the auxiliary       area for at least 2 weeks. Do not apply deodorant if the area looks red or is in the healing process.

15. It’s very normal to have some drainage or seepage from the incision line during the healing period, may look a little pink. Area       may be sensitive to the touch.

16. Dr. Pousti will apply sutures to close the incision line. Sutures are removed on your second-third post op visit.

17. Patients need to wear the compression Vest for 1month post surgery. On your pre-op date the office staff will help you order       the proper compression Vest needed for your procedure.

18. Please do not remove your Vest garment after the surgery. The office staff will help you remove the garment on your first post       op visit.

19. We will remove the Vest for you 4-7 days after your surgery in the office. Once the garment is removed you will be able to put it in the washer and dryer. Please wear your compression Vest 24/7 for 1 month and only remove it when necessary.

20. Remember to move your feet back and fourth for 1 week post surgery to help with circulation.

21. Remember to do the deep breathing exercises for 1 week post surgery. Sometimes you may feel a lot of pressure of the chest area due to the augmentation. Make sure you are deep breathing please.

22. Chest area may feel numb for a while, sometimes may take time to have full skin sensation. Its normal to feel burning, sharp       shooting pain and soreness during the recovery.

23. To help minimize your bruising and swelling patients may take arnica medication called SinEcch and the cost is$50. We do have this       medication available in the office

24. You may expect to be swollen for a few months. Bruising and swelling will travel south. For our male patients that have Pectoral Surgery, please know that sometimes you may experience significant swelling of the lower extremities. Its normal for this to happen, it takes days for the swelling to go away.

25. Patients may start applying scar creams to the incisions after 3-6 weeks if the incision line if it looks good and there are no open wounds or scabs.

26. For Scar treatment most patients will use Hybrisil Ointment which you may get from our office for $90. Add $10 for shipping. Hybrisil is prescription strength medication that helps prevent keloiding and redness, and is normally used twice a day for 2 months. You may also use anything that has worked for you in the past. Scars will look their worst and angry looking closer to 2 months post surgery..

27. Please call the office if you have excessive pain, excessive bleeding, if drains are not working, drainage from the drains looks       cloudy or a rise in temperature above 100 degrees.

28. Incision lines and final results may take up to about a year. Sometimes sutures take time to dissolve, and sometimes you may have them reach the surface. This is normal and you may gently trim them.

29. Please  send photos to us at your 1 month, 3-6 months and 1 yr post surgery, if you are coming from out of town .

30. Please call us with any concerns Mon-Friday 8:30am-5:30 pm Saturdays from 9:00am-12pm at 619- 466-8851.

31. If you would like to blog or write a testimonial of your experience in our office please see the following websites

-YELP.COM

-LOCATEADOC.COM

-RATEMDS.COM

-REALSELF.COM

vitals.com, yahoo.com, plasticsurgeryreview.com, cosmeticsurgeryforums.com, grademyplasticsurgeon.com, makemeheal.com, insiderpages.con, kudzu.com, doctorscorecard.com,   googlereviews.com. Thank you for your reviews.

We hope to have made your experience unique and easy transition to your new look.

1. No driving for 1 week post liposuction surgery or until off narcotic pain medication completely.

2. Please take the medications as directed. Antibiotic medication is for 3 days, pain, and nausea medication are taken as needed. Never on an empty stomach and always space out the medications.

3. Constipation is very common due to the pain medication and anesthesia, please use Colace over the counter or any laxative that has worked with you in the past. You may start taking something to help prevent constipation 2-3 days post surgery.

4. If you develop a rash or think you are having an allergic reaction to the medication please call our office immediately. Sometimes Benadryl will help.

5. No exercising for 4 weeks post surgery.

6. No showers for 1 week post surgery. No ocean water or pool water for 8 weeks post surgery or until the incision is fully healed.

7. No tanning or sun exposure to the incision until the incision has healed completely.

8. Please do not put scar creams or ointments on the incision immediately after surgery, you may irritate the area or cause an allergic reaction.

9. Patients need to wear the compression garment for 1month post surgery. On your pre-op date the office staff will help you order the proper compression garment needed for your liposuction procedure.

10. Please do not remove your liposuction compression garment after the surgery. The office staff will help you remove the garment on your first post op visit.

11. We will remove the garment for you 7 days after your surgery in the office. Once the garment is removed you will be able to put it in the washer and dryer. Please wear your garment 24/7 for 1 month and only remove it when necessary.

12. Liposuction areas need to be massaged to help break any lumps or bumps; you may use any lotion of your choice. Massaging in a circular motion all around the treated area.

13. Once the garment is removed you will be able to shower.

14. Remember to move your feet back and fourth for 1 week post surgery to help with circulation.

15. Remember to do the deep breathing exercises for 1 week post surgery.

16. Often times you need a lot of soft pillows to help keep you comfortable. Soft surfaces to rest on. Make sure you are not causing creasing on the lipo areas that were performed by the way you are sitting or resting.

17. Liposuction areas may feel numb for a while, sometimes may take time to have full skin sensation back. Its normal to feel burning and soreness during the recovery.

18. You may expect to be swollen for a few months. Bruising and swelling will travel south.

19. The first month post surgery most patients may notice a 50% reduction of the area treated. It takes time for the swelling to go   away. Takes about 6 months to 1yr for final results.

20. To help minimize your bruising and swelling patients may take arnica medication called SinEcch and the cost is$50. We do have this medication available in the office.

21. Patients may start applying scar creams to the incisions after 3 weeks if the incision line if it looks good and there are no open wounds or scabs.

22. For Scar treatment most patients will use Hybrisil Ointment which you may get from our office for $90. Add $10 for shipping. Hybrisil is prescription strength medication that helps prevent keloiding and redness, and is normally used twice a day for 2 months. You may also use anything that has worked for you in the past. Scars will look their worst and angry looking closer to 2 months post surgery.

23. It’s very normal to have some drainage or seepage from the incision line during the healing period.

24. Please call the office if you have excessive pain, excessive bleeding or a rise in temperature above 100 degrees.

25. Incision lines and final results may take up to about a year. Sometimes sutures take time to dissolve, and sometimes you may have them reach the surface. This is normal and you may gently trim them.

26. Please  send photos to us at your 1 month, 3-6 months and 1 yr post surgery, if you are coming from out of town .

27.  Please call us with any concerns Mon-Friday 8:30am-5:30 pm Saturdays from 9:00am-12pm at 619- 466-8851. Or email us at info@pousti.com, please now that calling may ensure a faster response.

28.   If you would like to blog or write a testimonial of your experience in our office please see the following websites:

-YELP.COM

-LOCATEADOC.COM

-RATEMDS.COM

-REALSELF.COM

vitals.com, yahoo.com, plasticsurgeryreview.com, cosmeticsurgeryforums.com,

grademyplasticsurgeon.com, makemeheal.com, insiderpages.con, kudzu.com, doctorscorecard.com,   googlereviews.com. Thank you for your reviews.

We hope to have made your experience unique and easy transition to your new look.

1. No driving for 1 week post surgery or until off narcotic pain medication completely.

2. Please take the medications as directed. Antibiotic medication is for 3 days, pain, and nausea medication are taken as needed. Never on an empty stomach and always space out the medications.

3. Constipation is very common due to the pain medication and anesthesia, please use Colace over the counter or any laxative that has worked with you in the past. You may start taking something to help prevent constipation 2-3 days post surgery.

4. If you develop a rash or think you are having an allergic reaction to the medication please call our office immediately. Sometimes Benadryl will help.

5. No exercising for 4 weeks post surgery.

6. No showers for 1 week post surgery. No ocean water or pool water for 8 weeks post surgery or until the incision is fully healed.

7. No tanning or sun exposure to the incision until the incision has healed completely.

8. Please do not put scar creams or ointments on the incision immediately after surgery, you may irritate the area or cause an allergic reaction.

9. Patients need to wear the compression Vest for 1 month post surgery. On your pre-op date the office staff will help you order the proper compression Vest needed for your liposuction procedure.

10. Please do not remove your Vest garment after the surgery. The office staff will help you remove the garment on your first post-op visit.

11. We will remove the Vest for you 7 days after your surgery in the office. Once the garment is removed you will be able to put it in the washer and dryer. Please wear your compression Vest 24/7 for 1 month and only remove it when necessary.

12. Liposuction areas need to be massaged to help break any lumps or bumps; you may use any lotion of your choice. Massaging in a circular motion all around the treated area.

13. Once the compression vest is removed you will be able to shower.

14. Remember to move your feet back and fourth for 1 week post surgery to help with circulation.

15. Remember to do the deep breathing exercises for 1 week post surgery.

16. Often times you need a lot of soft pillows to help keep you comfortable. Soft surfaces to rest on. Make sure you are not causing creasing on the lipo areas that were performed by the way you are sitting or resting.

17. Liposuction areas may feel numb for a while, sometimes may take time to have full skin sensation. Its normal to feel burning and soreness during the recovery.

18. To help minimize your bruising and swelling patients may take arnica medication called SinEcch and the cost is$50. We do have this medication available in the office.

19. You may expect to be swollen for a few months. Bruising and swelling will travel south. For our male patients that have Gynecomastia or liposuction of the abdomen, please know that you will have significant swelling of the lower extremities. Its normal for this to happen, it takes days for the swelling to go away.

20. The first month post surgery most patients may notice a 50% reduction of the area treated. It takes time for the swelling to go   away. Takes about 6 months to 1yr for final results.

21. Sometimes with Gynecomastia, Dr. Pousti will apply sutures to close the incision line. Sutures are removed on your first post op   visit, usually 7 days out of surgery.

22. Patients may start applying scar creams to the incisions after 3 weeks if the incision line if it looks good and there are no open wounds or scabs.

23. For Scar treatment most patients will use Hybrisil Ointment which you may get from our office for $90. Add $10 for shipping. Hybrisil is prescription strength medication that helps prevent keloiding and redness, and is normally used twice a day for 2 months. You may also use anything that has worked for you in the past. Scars will look their worst and angry looking closer to 2 months post surgery.

24. It’s very normal to have some drainage or seepage from the incision line during the healing period.

25. Please call the office if you have excessive pain, excessive bleeding or a rise in temperature above 100 degrees.

26. Incision lines and final results may take up to about a year. Sometimes sutures take time to dissolve, and sometimes you may have them reach the surface. This is normal and you may gently trim them.

27. Please  send photos to us at your 1 month, 3-6 months and 1 yr post surgery, if you are coming from out of town .

28. Please call us with any concerns Mon-Friday 8:30am-5:30 pm Saturdays from 9:00am-12pm at 619- 466-8851. Or email us at info@pousti.com, please now that calling may ensure a faster response

29.   If you would like to blog or write a testimonial of your experience in our office please see the following websites:

-YELP.COM

-LOCATEADOC.COM

-RATEMDS.COM

-REALSELF.COM

vitals.com, yahoo.com, plasticsurgeryreview.com, cosmeticsurgeryforums.com,

grademyplasticsurgeon.com, makemeheal.com, insiderpages.con, kudzu.com, doctorscorecard.com,   googlereviews.com. Thank you for your reviews.

We hope to have made your experience unique and easy transition to your new look.

1. Sleeping in an upright reclined position for 1 week after surgery. Please use a travel pillow to support your neck.. Patient have a head dressing placed after surgery. Its big and white, please be patient with it and do not remove. Head dressing is removed in the office.

2. No turning your neck down, left or right. Maintain your neck stable, this is very important to help protect incision sites and help minimize swelling.

3. No driving for 3  weeks post surgery or until off narcotic pain medication completely. Also no driving if you are not able to look over your shoulder due to  recovery.

4. It’s normal to experience swelling and bruising for 2-4 weeks post surgery. Sometimes swelling may take longer to subside.

5. To help minimize your bruising and swelling patients may take arnica medication called SinEcch and the cost is$50. We do have this medication available in the office.

6. Please take the medications as directed. Antibiotic medication is for 3 days, pain, and nausea medication is taken as needed. Never on an empty stomach and always space out the medications.

7. If you develop a rash or think you are having an allergic reaction to the medication please call our office immediately. Sometimes Benadryl will help.

8. Constipation is very common due to the pain medication and anesthesia, please use Colace over the counter or any laxative that has worked with you in the past. You may start taking something to help prevent constipation 2-3 days post surgery.

9. On your first post op visit the head dressing will be removed. Your first office visit is usually 2-3 days after surgery. When the dressing is removed       sometimes doctor will apply a lighter dressing to help with swelling. The dressing is also good as a reminder to really take it easy.

10. Please bring a good scarf of big hat to wear after head dressing removal. This will help make u feel more comfortable when you leave the office. There   will be some dry blood and swelling.

11. With the facelift surgery a drain is also used to help drain out any excess fluid. The drain is also removed when your dressing is removed.

12. Dr. Pousti sometimes uses sutures that need to be  removed. Sutures are removed 7-10 days post surgery.

13. In some cases patients may have Staples that are hidde in the hair and hair line. If there are staples they are removed 10-14 days after surgery.

14. You may start to wash your face gently 1 week post surgery. Please note that you will have some dry blood so the water might seem tinted. Please use mild soap; please keep the area clean and dry at all times.

15. Patient may begin to shower after the second head dressing comes off, usually 7 days post surgery. Use a mild shampoo or baby shampoo. Please note that you will have some dry blood so the water might seem tinted.

16. Avoid any face creams and face makeup for 4 weeks or until the incisions are healed completely.

17. No ocean water or pool water for 12 weeks post surgery or until the incisions are fully healed.

18. No tanning or sun exposure to the incision until your incisions has healed completely.

19. Please do not apply scar creams to the incision immediately after surgery, you may irritate the area or cause an allergic reaction.

20. Itching is normal the first few weeks post surgery.

21. You may expect the area to be swollen for a few weeks. This is why it will also take time to see the final results for your surgery.

22. No strenuous activity, such as sports, running, dancing, etc for at least 4 weeks post surgery.

23. Incision lines and final results may take up to about a year. Sometimes sutures take time to dissolve, and sometimes you may have them reach the surface.

25. Please come in for your follow ups and if you are coming from out of town, please send us photos closer to 4 weeks post surgery.

26. Please call us with any concerns Mon-Friday 8:30am-5:30 pm Saturdays from 9:00am-12pm at 619- 466-8851.

27. If you would like to blog or write a testimonial of your experience in our office please see the following websites

-YELP.COM     -LOCATEADOC.COM     -RATEMDS.COM      -REALSELF.COM

vitals.com, yahoo.com, plasticsurgeryreview.com, cosmeticsurgeryforums.com,

grademyplasticsurgeon.com, insiderpages.con, kudzu.com, doctorscorecard.com, googlereviews.com.

Thank you for your reviews.

We hope to have made your experience unique and easy transition.

1. No driving for 3-5 weeks post surgery or until off narcotic pain medication completely.

2. Sleeping in an upright reclined position for 1-2 weeks.

3. No reaching out or above for atleast 6-8 weeks.

4. Please take the medications as directed. Antibiotic medication is for 3 days, pain, valium and nausea medication are taken as needed. Never on an empty stomach and always space out the medications.

5. Constipation is very common due to the pain medication and anesthesia, please use Colace over the counter or any laxative that has worked with you in the past. You may start taking something to help prevent constipation 2-3 days post surgery.

6. If you develop a rash or think you are having an allergic reaction to the medication please call our office immediately. Sometimes Benadryl will help.

7. No upper body exercising for 3-6 months post surgery.

8. No showers for weeks post surgery or until drains are removed. No ocean water or pool water for 12 weeks post surgery or until the incisions are fully healed.

9. No tanning or sun exposure to the incision until the incision has healed completely.

10. Please do not put scar creams or ointments on the incision immediately after surgery, you may irritate the area or cause an allergic reaction.

11. With this procedure you will have 1-2 drains under the incision site. Drains are removed when ready. Usually the drainage out       put needs to be less the 20 cc within a 24hr period.

12. Drains are ready at about 3-6 weeks post surgery. Please be patient during this process.

13. To make sure there is no seromas after drain removal, please come in for your follow up appointments to be examined by doctor.       Signs of a Seroma “fluid production” are palpable pocket of fluid,diziness, feeling light headed, abnormal temperature, fever and         chills.

14. Dr.Pousti will apply sutures to close the insicion line. Sutures are removed on your second-third post op visit.

15. It’s very normal to have some drainage or seapage from the incision line during the healing period, may look a little pink. Area       may be sensative to the touch.

16. Patients need to wear the compression Vest for 1month post surgery. On your pre-op date the office staff will help you order     the proper compression Vest needed for your procedure.

17. Please do not remove your Vest garment after the surgery. The office staff will help you remove the garment on your first post       op visit.

18. We will remove the Vest for you 4-7 days after your surgery in the office. Once the garment is removed you will be able to put it in the washer and dryer. Please wear your compression Vest 24/7 for 1 month and only remove it when necessary.

19. Remember to move your feet back and fourth for 1 week post surgery to help with circulation.

20. Remember to do the deep breathing exercises for 1 week post surgery. Sometimes you may feel a lot of preassure of the chest area due to the recovery. Make sure you are deep breathing please.

21. Chest area may feel numb for a while, sometimes may take time to have full skin sensation. Its normal to feel burning, sharp       shooting pain and soreness during the recovery.

22. To help minimize your bruising and swelling patients may take arnica medication called SinEcch and the cost is$50. We do have this         medication available in the office

23. You may expect to be swollen. Bruising and swelling will travel south. With Custum Implants surgery, please know that sometimes you may experience significant swelling of the lower extremities. Its normal for this to happen, it takes days for the swelling to      subside

24. Patients may start applying scar creams to the incisions after 3-6 weeks if the incision line if it looks good and there are no open wounds or scabs.

25. For Scar treatment most patients will use Hybrisil Ointment which you may get from our office for $90. Add $10 for shipping. Hybrisil is prescription strength medication that helps prevent keloiding and redness, and is normally used twice a day for 2 months. You may also use anything that has worked for you in the past. Scars will look their worst and angry looking closer to 2 months post surgery..

26. Please call the office if you have excessive pain, excessive bleeding, if drains are not working, drainage from the drains looks       cloudy or a rise in temperature above 100 degrees.

27. Incision lines and final results may take up to about a year. Sometimes sutures take time to dissolve, and sometimes you may have them reach the surface. This is normal and you may gently trim them.

28. Please  send photos to us at your 1 month, 3-6 months and 1 yr post surgery, if you are coming from out of town .

29. Please call us with any concerns Mon-Friday 8:30am-5:30 pm Saturdays from 9:00am-12pm at 619- 466-8851. Or email us at info@pousti.com, please now that calling may ensure a faster response.

30. If you would like to blog or write a testimonial of your experience in our office please see the following websites

-YELP.COM

-LOCATEADOC.COM

-RATEMDS.COM

-REALSELF.COM

vitals.com, yahoo.com, plasticsurgeryreview.com, cosmeticsurgeryforums.com, grademyplasticsurgeon.com, makemeheal.com, insiderpages.con, kudzu.com, doctorscorecard.com,   googlereviews.com. Thank you for your reviews.

We hope to have made your experience unique and easy transition to your new look.

Description

San Diego/La Jolla Surgeon Dr. Tom Pousti Now Provides CoolSculpting Treatments For Removal Of Unwanted Fat. Approved by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA), CoolSculpting smoothly cools undesired fat cells in the body resulting in a painless, controlled eradication of fat cells. The CoolSculpting method is based on science performed by the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. Research determined that fat cells are more vulnerable to cold temperatures and when introduced to these cold climates are effortlessly and permanently demolished. Beginning weeks after the cooling application, the cooled fat cells initiate the process of solidifying the fat cells without destroying surrounding tissues, eventually causing the cells to shrink and disappear naturally. Gradually as the cells diminish, the depth of the fat layer will be reduced.
 

CLICK HERE To View Special Invitation To Pousti Plastic Surgery’s CoolSculpting Open House Featuring Demonstrations, Free Consultations, & Giveaways.

 

Different from other techniques of fat loss, CoolSculpting excludes the use of needles, anesthesia or pain medication, recovery time or restrictions, and surgery. Throughout the treatment, controlled cooling is administered with a non-invasive applicator to an area intentionally targeting fat cells. As the procedure is initiated, vacuum pressure draws tissue into an applicator cup between cooling panels. The vacuum pressure may cause sensations of deep pulling, tugging and pinching in the area being treated. The procedure can take one to two hours depending on the area(s) being treated. Undeniable Results are seen with one treatment but for more dramatic effects you may wish to have additional treatments performed. Results are sometimes visible within three weeks following your treatment, but full results will be noticeable within two to four months.

CLICK HERE to Read Dr. Pousti’s Personal Experience
with CoolSculpting

The Procedure

Patient can relax for one hour as the treatment is being performed.

Immediately after the hand piece is removed from the treated area. The area will be cold, red, and raised.

Female Patient

Male Patient

Manual Massage after the hand piece is removed helps achieve better results by involving more fat cells.

A few minutes post treatement

Patient Before/After Pictures

What to Expect After the Surgery & FAQ

1. Which patients are the best candidates?

Ultimately, ideal candidates are active and are at or near their goal weight, but are unable to get rid of stubborn fat with diet and exercise. They should be concerned with specific areas that include stored fat, not concerned with their entire body, but do not consider surgical procedures a solution. The CoolSculpting method is not intended as a weight loss solution.

2. How does the applicator deliver cooling to the fat cells?

The applicator gently holds tissue in the applicator cup grasped between two cooling panels, resembling a vacuum, while extracting body heat from underlying tissue. The skin is monitored through sensors, linked to the control console, built into the machine that control a consistent cooling procedure pattern and provide constant feedback to the physician.

3. How long will my results last?

Patients show full results six months after the CoolSculpting treatment and are expected to last about as long as results from invasive fat cell removal surgeries such as liposuction.

4. Are there any side effects after the treatment?

As a non-invasie procedure, the CoolSculpting treatment allows for immediate return to normal daily activities with no restrictions. Immediately following the treatment, the area may appear red anywhere from the first few minutes to the first few hours, but this is completely along with minimal localized bruising which usually disappears within a few weeks. Some patients may feel a numbing sensation to the treated area lasting up to 8 weeks.

5. What happens during the treatment?

The first step is consulting with a physician and selecting an area(s) to be treated. The applicator available in small, medium, or large, will then be placed on your skin, while the device begins firmly pulling up the skin between the two cooling panels. Once the bulge is obtained in the applicator, the device will continue a sucking motion in a constant rhythm for about an hour or so when the procedure is complete. Immediately following the treatment, your skin may feel stiff and transient blanching (temporary whitening of the skin) may appear.

6. What does the treatment feel like?

The first few minutes can be somewhat uncomfortable as the cooling sensation takes affect,  but usually diminishes. Many patients find it beneficial to read, take a nap, or browse their phones during the treatment. Rarely, you may experience tingling, cramping, or aching which usually subsides within a few minutes.

Pricing Information

1 Large Area                       $1,500

2 Large Areas                     $2,700  ($300 off)

3 Large Areas                     $3,800  ($700 off)

1 Small Area                       $750

2 Small Areas                     $1400  ($100 off)

3 Small Areas                     $2000  ($250 off)

Medium and Small Applicators

most areas require 2 sites (left side and right side), treated over 2 hours

Individual Treatment  $750

Package of 2 sites          $1,400 ($700 each)

Package of 4 sites          $2,700 ($675 each)

Best Value

Package of 8 sites          $4,400 ($550 each)

Patient Testimonials

Dr. Pousti,

I wanted to personally thank you for a wonderful experience that I had in your office during my Cool sculpting procedure. The entire experience was first class. The office staff were very friendly, warm, and knowledgeable about the procedure that I was about to receive.

Past the front office, the time you took to explain the procedure to me, your calmness, and confidence really put me at such a relaxing state that I actually took a 40 minute nap during the one hour procedure.

Upon completion of my procedure, everything was normal. I had all sensations in the area of the procedure and no discomfort whatsoever. In fact the same evening I was at the gym doing my regular exercises. Once again, thank you so much for the wonderful experience that received in your office from yourself and your staff.

Best Regards,
Tony K.

Patient Testimonial:

Dr. Pousti is the best of the best I wouldn’t have changed any of my previous decisions. Before and after pic’s say a lot!! Thanks Dr. Pousti.

M.R.
Texas

Patient Testimonial:

In a week or so it will be one year since I had my surgery, and I thought I’d drop you a line just to let you know how I’m doing. Yes, I’ve put back on a bit more weight, but I’ve also spent a lot of time in the gym, so I’m hoping that it’s mostly muscle. And the compliments that I started receiving about my appearance last summer just keep coming. In fact, for some reason, a lot of people have just noticed my chest for the first time last month, right after the holidays. Of course, the compliments are really gratifying (and deserved….hey, I’m pleased with the way I look!). Anyway, at age 42 I’m probably in the best shape of my life. And I owe it all to you…the lipo and implants really got me motivated to get in shape and diet properly, and I haven’t wavered from that all year. Once again, thanks for everything. And I really wish I had gotten all this done 10 or 15 years ago………..I thought of you today, so I thought I’d drop you a quick line. This morning I was taking a hike (bare-chested) when I passed someone sitting on the side of the trail who shouted out, “Hey man, great pecs! I mean it! Awesome!”. Of course, all I could think was “Thank you, Dr. Pousti!”. Of course, this wasn’t the first time I’ve heard that comment; I’ve heard it quite a bit, actually, over the last year and a half since my surgery. But I just wanted to send you a quick thanks again.

Attached is a photo of me from last month. I’ve blanked out my face, so feel free to show it to any patient who might be interested in the sort of procedures I had. You’ll notice that, in the last year and a half, I’ve managed to keep my stomach nicely flat, and my muscle tone is vastly improved. And I think the chest looks better than ever (I’m not sure why…maybe the implants have settled, or maybe it’s just the additional muscle I’ve put on). Also, I just turned 43, but over the previous year I’ve had more woman flirting with me than all the previous 41 years put together (which I find highly amusing and gratifying). Anyway, thanks again!

Patient Testimonial:

My decision to pursue the surgery was very spur of the moment. Although I had been wanting it for quite some time, I never really had the opporutnity to pursue it; year around I was involved in sports, more specifically football. Anywho, to make a long story short, upon arriving back to San Diego after a whirlwind of a time in Europe following college graduation, I decided it was time to do something for myself. I did a little research and found Dr. Pousti with the help of the internet. The thing that attracted me to Dr. Pousti, besides his excellent resume (Harvard Grad), was the fact that he was a pioneer in the particular surgery that I was looking for, and was an innovator in his procedures.
Dr. Pousti’s office was the first I visited, and the last. From the very beginning, I felt as if I was not only ‘a’ patient of his, but ‘THE’ patient. Walking into to a plastic surgeon’s office filled with a female staff and a mostly female clientele could be a little frightening, especially for a big, meat-head, egotistical football player like myself. However, from the very beginning, the staff welcomed me with open arms. Each and every one of them had an endearing smile and always greeted me with a friendly hello. Every time I called to make or reschedule an appointment, they always remembered my name, were always interested in how I was doing, and always responded with a , ‘No problem Mike, we can do that.” Being in the business world myself, this is the MOST important characteristic to possess: client service. And with client service comes sincerity, a great attitude, working hard, exceeding expectations; I feel that Dr. Pousti and his staff possess all of these things and more.
I am very happy with my results. I still have some healing to do, but it is such a blessing to have such a great Doctor and office to rely and fall back on.

Patient Testimonial:

After living with gynecomastia for several years I decided that I would start looking for a plastic surgeon to take care of my issue. I did extensive research on the subject and found that Dr. Pousti would be the correct choice to perform my surgery. Going into the surgery I was very nervous of the outcome, but Dr. Pousti assured me that I would be pleased with my results and explained in detail of how the procedure would work. The day of the surgery came and it was over in a flash. I?m now three weeks post-op and looking back on the experience I can actually say that the anxiety of finding a plastic surgeon and worrying about the results was far worse than the actual surgery itself. The results of the surgery were what I hoped it would be! I now have a huge sense of relief and feel that a weight has been lifted off my shoulders since the procedure. Dr. Pousti, his office staff, and hospital staff were all very professional and made for a pleasant experience and I recommend Dr. Pousti to anyone thinking about the procedure.

Patient Testimonial:

I am writing to thank Dr. Pousti and his staff for allowing me to have the body I always wanted. Both the doctor and his staff made me feel comfortable and welcomed every time I stepped into their office. In addition to the professional care I received post-surgery, his staff made sure l was doing well by calling everyday and answering any questions I may of had. But above all, the results were just what I wanted. Dr. Pousti’s skillful work has given me more confidence in myself and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking plastic surgery.
Thanks a lot
J.N

The Mommy Makeover procedure is actually a combination of several different procedures that, when used together, produce amazing results. Since every woman has different needs, each Mommy Makeover can vary in procedures, thus tailoring each surgery to the patient’s restorative needs. Some of the procedures that can be combined in a mommy makeover are Tummy Tuck, Liposuction, Breast Lift, Breast Augmentation, and Reduction.

Click the procedure you had below for your post op instructions

Tummy Tuck

Liposuction

Breast Lift/Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation

Breast Reduction

Should you have any further questions please feel free to call our office 619) 466-8851 or contact Dr. Pousti via email info@pousti.com

Click Here To Read Blepharoplasty Testimonials From Our Patients!

1.        Sleeping in an upright reclined position for 1 week after surgery.

2.        No driving for 2 weeks post surgery or until off narcotic pain medication completely.

3.        Please apply ice on the area on and off for 1 week after your surgery to help minimize your swelling and bruising. Use a thin cloth before icing the area, never apply ice directly to the skin or incision site.

4.        With the eyelid surgery, its normal to experience swelling and bruising for 1-2 weeks post surgery. Sometimes eyes may look very puffy like “fish eyes” due to the swelling.

5.        To help minimize your bruising and swelling patients may take arnica medication called SinEcch and the cost is$50. We do have this medication available in the office.

6.        Please take the medications as directed. Antibiotic medication is for 3 days, pain, and nausea medication is taken as needed. Never on an empty stomach and always space out the medications.

7.        Sometimes after surgery, patients may experience blurry vision. This could be caused by dry eyes or the Lacrilube ointment.

8.        There are 3 medications specifically for the eye lids: Lacrilube ointment, Neosporing ointment and Artificial tears.

9.        The Lacrilube ointment you want to apply into the eyes to help keep your eyes moist. Its normal to feel like you have blurry vision due to this ointment since it can be slightly thick.

10.     Neosporin opthalmic ointment you can apply to the suture line; after gently cleaning the suture line with peroxide using a clean Q-tip.

11.     Artificial tears will help prevent eye irritation and minimize any redness.

12.     If you develop a rash or think you are having an allergic reaction to the medication please call our office immediately. Sometimes Benadryl will help.

13.     Constipation is very common due to the pain medication and anesthesia, please use Colace over the counter or any laxative that has worked with you in the past. You may start taking something to help prevent constipation 2-3 days post surgery.

14.     You may start to wash your face gently, 3 days post surgery. Please note that you will have some dry blood so the water might seem tinted. Please use mild soap; please keep the area clean and dry at all times.

15.     Avoid any eye creams and eye makeup for 4-6 weeks or until the incisions are healed.

16.     No ocean water or pool water for 6 weeks post surgery or until the incisions are fully healed.

17.     No tanning or sun exposure to the incision until your incisions has healed completely.

18.     Please do not apply scar creams to the incision immediately after surgery, you may irritate the area or cause an allergic reaction.

19.     Please don’t do any reading or watch television because your eyes will be sensitive and you may get a headache.

20.     Itching is normal the first few weeks post surgery.

21.     You may expect the area to be swollen for a few weeks. This is why it will also take time to see the final results for your surgery.

22.     No strenuous activity, such as sports, running, dancing, etc for at least 4 weeks post surgery.

23.     If there is redness on the incision line or it feels tender, please call our office.

24.     Incision lines and final results may take up to about a year. Sometimes sutures take time to dissolve, and sometimes you may have them reach the surface.

25.     Please come in for your follow ups and if you are coming from out of town, please send us photos closer to 4 weeks post surgery.

26.     Please call us with any concerns Mon-Friday 8:30am-5:30 pm Saturdays from 9:00am-12pm at 619- 466-8851.

27.     If you would like to blog or write a testimonial of your experience in our office please see the following websites

-YELP.COM

-LOCATEADOC.COM

-RATEMDS.COM

-REALSELF.COM

vitals.com, yahoo.com, plasticsurgeryreview.com, cosmeticsurgeryforums.com,

grademyplasticsurgeon.com, insiderpages.con, kudzu.com, doctorscorecard.com, googlereviews.com.

Thank you for your reviews.

We hope to have made your experience unique and easy transition.