The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has approved cryolipolysis for the treatment of the chin, upper arms, inner and outer thighs, abdomen, hips/flanks (“waist bulge”), upper back (“bra rolls” ), lower back and fat deposits under the buttocks.

Details of the process

How does Cryolipolysis work?

The process can be performed in a doctor’s office or in a clinic . The size and shape of the fat deposits are assessed and the area to be treated is outlined with a skin-marking pencil. The patient is awake during the procedure.

A handheld device called an applicator is used to freeze the layer of fat cells under the skin. First, a gel pad is applied to the affected area to protect the skin. Next, the fat bulge is suctioned or vacuumed into the hollow opening of the applicator. As the suction is applied, you will feel a pulling sensation. These sensations, along with other possible sensations – tingling, stinging, pain, cramping – lessen after 5 to 10 minutes as the area becomes numb during the cooling process. The fat layer is gradually cooled to a target temperature between 30.2℉ and 39.2℉.

It takes one hour to treat an area. After treating the area, remove the applicator. The area can be massaged for 2 to 3 minutes to help break down the fat cells.

How are fat cells destroyed?

This technique is based on a finding that fat cells are more susceptible to damage from cold temperatures than other cells such as skin cells. Cold temperatures damage fat cells. This damage triggers an inflammatory response in the body that leads to fat cell death. Macrophages, a type of white blood cell that is part of the body’s immune system, are “called to the site of injury” to remove dead fat cells and debris from the body.

How much localized fat can be reduced by Cryolipolysis and when will I start to notice results?

Studies have shown an average fat loss of 15% to 28% approximately 4 months after the initial treatment. However, you may begin to notice changes as early as 3 weeks after treatment. Significant improvement occurs after about 2 months.

Risks/Benefits

What are the benefits of Cryolipolysis?

Cryolipolysis has many advantages.

No surgical incisions are required.

It is a low risk procedure. There is no risk of infection.

The procedure can be performed on a clinic.

Patients do not need to be sedated or anesthetized before the procedure.

More than one area of the body can be treated in a single session.

Most people can return to their normal daily activities immediately after treatment.

The procedure is suitable for people of all ages.

There is no damage to nerve fibers, blood vessels, or muscles in the treatment area and no lasting damage to the skin.

Damaged or destroyed fat cells are permanently removed from the body.

Patients may feel an increase in self-confident due to an improved appearance.