CoolSculpting: FSA Eligibility

What is CoolSculpting?

Coolsculpting, or cryolipolysis, is a cosmetic procedure that destroys fat cells by freezing them. It can be performed in various parts of the body with minor fat deposits such as the abdomen, thighs, upper chin, neck, flanks, under the armpit, back and buttocks (ZELTIQ Aesthetics). There is no recovery time as the procedure is nonsurgical and noninvasive. 

How is CoolSculpting done?

CoolSculpting is a nonsurgical procedure that involves targeted cooling to crystallize fat cells under the skin. Dead fat cells then naturally pass through your body’s liver and are expelled (Medical News Today). CoolSculpting was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2012. Research regarding the effects of this procedure is low. 

Why isn't CoolSculpting eligible for reimbursement?

Under IRC 213(d)(1), "medical care includes amounts paid for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body." This includes medical equipment, supplies and devices." CoolSculpting is a cosmetic procedure, and does not directly relate to the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of a medical condition, and therefore would not be eligible for reimbursement with consumer-directed health care accounts like FSAs, HSAs, HRAs, DCFSAs or LPFSAs.