How Much Does CoolSculpting (Cryolipolysis) Cost? Price Variance by Body Part, Time, and Other Factors

The typical price for CoolSculpting, also called cryolipolysis, is roughly $3,200 per session. This figure depends on the specific body area being treated — smaller regions generally cost less.

CoolSculpting is a contouring treatment that eliminates fat cells by freezing them with a vacuum-style applicator, a process known as cryolipolysis. It’s intended for people looking to remove persistent pockets of fat in targeted locations.

Because CoolSculpting is considered elective rather than medically necessary, patients are responsible for covering the expense themselves.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported that the average charge per treatment for noninvasive fat reduction — including CoolSculpting — was $1,157 in 2023 (they did not report a 2024 average). The official CoolSculpting site lists the typical price at about $3,200 per session.

Cost varies primarily by the body area being addressed: the smaller the area, the lower the fee. Treating several areas increases the total cost. Other elements that affect the final price include:

• your geographic location
• the provider you choose
• any required follow-up visits

Most patients require only one CoolSculpting session per area, though some opt for an additional treatment months later to enhance results. Sessions usually last a few hours or less, and there’s no mandated downtime.

Before scheduling, discuss pricing with potential providers. If you plan to treat multiple sites, ask about price differences between those areas and whether package pricing is available. You can also learn more about microneedling cost alongside other aesthetic procedures to compare options and budgeting.

CoolSculpting versus weight loss

CoolSculpting is not a weight-loss procedure. It’s best suited for people who are within about 30 pounds of their ideal weight.

The treatment aims to remove small, stubborn pockets of fat that don’t respond to dieting or exercise.

The FDA has cleared CoolSculpting for use on the submental area (under the chin), under the jawline, upper arms, lower back (lumbar), the bra-line area, flanks, abdomen, thighs, and the area beneath the buttocks.

Continue reading for typical pricing by treatment location.

Cost of CoolSculpting for arms

CoolSculpting is commonly used to reduce fat in the upper arms. Per a 2017 ASPS piece, treatments for smaller zones may run about $650 to $800.

Pricing can also depend on the applicator chosen by the clinician.

For instance, one dermatologist in New York lists fees of $750 to $1,000 per arm.

Each arm session is typically around 35 minutes. Usually, a single session is enough to reach the intended outcome.

Cost of CoolSculpting for thighs

Thigh treatment prices vary. The same New York dermatologist charges about $1,500 for an outer thigh and $750 for an inner thigh. Treating both legs may push the total to $4,000 or more.

Each thigh application can take as little as 35 minutes. Like arm treatments, many patients achieve long-lasting results after a single session.

Cost of CoolSculpting for stomach

The abdomen is among the most commonly treated areas with CoolSculpting. Fat in this region can be stubborn due to aging and events like pregnancy.

Estimates for abdominal CoolSculpting typically reach up to $1,500 per session, and some clinicians advise two treatments for optimal results.

Individual sessions last between 35 and 60 minutes. Results are considered permanent, though additional sessions are sometimes chosen to further reduce fat.

What happens during a consultation

Your first step is a consultation with a CoolSculpting provider — which may be a board-certified plastic surgeon or an aesthetic professional working under a physician’s supervision.

Because CoolSculpting pricing depends on many variables, a consultation is the best way to receive an accurate cost estimate.

Ask whether the clinic offers promotional pricing or financing plans to see if you might qualify for savings.

This appointment is also your opportunity to ask any questions about the practice and the procedure itself.

Questions to ask during a CoolSculpting consultation

• Who will perform my CoolSculpting treatment, and how much experience do they have?
• Can I view before-and-after photos of procedures done at your clinic?
• Which body areas do you treat with CoolSculpting?
• How many sessions would I likely need to reach my goals?
• What should I expect to pay per CoolSculpting treatment?
• Do you offer any discounts or special programs I might be eligible for?
• When will I begin to notice results after treatment?
• What potential side effects should I anticipate?
• Are there medical conditions that would make CoolSculpting unsuitable for me?

Recovery after CoolSculpting

According to the ASPS, full results can take about 4 to 6 months as your body gradually clears the treated fat cells.

Temporary side effects such as soreness and numbness may occur, usually resolving within a few weeks.

You generally won’t need to take time off work to recover, though some patients prefer to schedule treatment on a day away from work to avoid any immediate discomfort.

Expect to be at the provider’s office for a couple of hours per session; treating multiple regions may lengthen your appointment.

How durable are CoolSculpting results?

CoolSculpting is intended to produce permanent removal of treated fat cells. The stomach may sometimes require two or more sessions for the best outcome, so discuss the likely number of treatments with your clinician.

Unlike typical weight-loss strategies that shrink fat cells, CoolSculpting eliminates them. Per the ASPS, targeted fat cells are reduced on average by about 20%, with some patients experiencing reductions up to 40%, particularly in smaller treatment zones such as the arms.

If you plan to retreat the same area later, expect similar pricing to your initial treatment since the procedure must be repeated. Also, if you gain weight after treatment, new fat may accumulate in previously treated regions.

Does insurance pay for CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is an elective cosmetic service and is not covered by health insurance. Talk to your provider about available discounts and payment options to help manage the cost.

Ways to lower CoolSculpting expenses

Working directly with your provider is often the best route to reduce costs. Many clinics run promotions or offer introductory coupons for new patients.

Ask about financing choices. Spreading payments can lower upfront cost, though interest-bearing options will increase the overall expense. Some providers do offer interest-free payment plans.

The device maker also runs a savings program called Allē, which provides offers, lets you earn points for CoolSculpting and other elective procedures, and allows redemption of points toward cosmetic services.

Bottom line

CoolSculpting (cryolipolysis) is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure that destroys fat cells by freezing them with an FDA-cleared device.

Because it’s elective, CoolSculpting isn’t covered by insurance. Prices depend on the treated area’s size, location, and other individual factors.

Schedule a consultation with a CoolSculpting provider to receive a tailored estimate, determine your candidacy for the procedure or other non-surgical body-contouring options, and explore cost-saving choices.