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On September 22, renowned supermodel Linda Evangelista took to Instagram to share her distressing experience with a rare side effect of the CoolSculpting procedure. She described feeling “unrecognizable” and “permanently deformed,” despite having undergone “two painful, unsuccessful corrective surgeries.” In her post, she explained, “To my followers who have wondered why I have not been working while my peers’ careers have been thriving, the reason is that I was brutally disfigured by Zeltiq’s CoolSculpting procedure which did the opposite of what it promised.”
Evangelista has since filed a lawsuit against the company, claiming that after several treatments targeting her abdomen, back, inner thighs, flanks, and chin, she experienced painful, bulging masses under her skin. She was diagnosed with Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH) in June 2016.
Despite the fact that over 8 million people in the U.S. had used CoolSculpting as of 2019, many are still unfamiliar with how the procedure works or the potential adverse effects, as seen in Evangelista’s case.
Understanding CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting utilizes a technique known as cryolipolysis, where cold temperatures are applied to break down fat cells. Each session lasts about an hour, with the total number of sessions depending on the area being treated. After treatment, the body eliminates the frozen fat cells through the liver, with full results typically visible within three months.
While CoolSculpting can effectively reduce fat in targeted areas by approximately 25% after six months, it is essential to note that it is not intended for weight loss. Instead, it aims to eliminate stubborn fat deposits in individuals who are already at their ideal body weight. The procedure is FDA-approved, non-invasive, and not covered by insurance, with costs ranging from $600 to $3,000.
When CoolSculpting Goes Awry
Patients may experience various side effects immediately following the procedure or within a couple of weeks. Common side effects include redness, bruising, tingling, and numbness. More rare complications can involve hernia, dizziness, hyperpigmentation, frostbite, and persistent pain.
The specific side effect that Evangelista encountered, PAH, involves the abnormal enlargement of tissue in the treatment area, occurring two to five months post-treatment. This means that, rather than reducing in size, the targeted area may actually expand. Zeltiq has indicated that PAH does not resolve on its own and requires surgical intervention, such as liposuction, for correction. Unfortunately, surgery does not guarantee a return to normalcy, as Evangelista’s experience illustrates.
Zeltiq claims that PAH occurs in about one in every 4,000 treatments, but recent studies suggest that the risk may be much higher, with estimates closer to one in 666 patients. In her lawsuit, Evangelista argues that she was not made aware of the risk of PAH. She stated, “PAH has not only destroyed my livelihood, it has sent me into a cycle of deep depression, profound sadness, and the lowest depths of self-loathing.”
Dr. Alexander Mills, a certified plastic surgeon in Miami, has noted that he has seen cases of PAH in his practice. He emphasizes the importance of understanding that “just because it’s labeled as ‘noninvasive’ doesn’t mean it comes without risks.” He urges caution, stating, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
Celebrities are often seen as having perfect lives, but they are human and face societal pressures just like everyone else. Experiencing an outcome contrary to expectations can be devastating. In her post, Evangelista expressed her exhaustion with her current situation, sharing, “I would like to walk out my door with my head held high, despite not looking like myself any longer.” By speaking out, she hopes to take the first steps toward reclaiming her life.
For more information, you can visit this post and check out Make a Mom for expert insights on home insemination. Additionally, WomensHealth.gov is an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Linda Evangelista has opened up about her experience with Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia following CoolSculpting, sharing her struggles with self-image and the psychological impact of her condition. Despite the popularity of the procedure, she emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks involved.