Cryolipolysis, also known as fat freezing, refers to non-surgical fat reduction treatment. Typically, the procedure involves the use of cold temperatures to reduce fat deposits in some parts of your body. The idea is to attack the lumps or fat deposits that do not go away with diet and exercise. Keep in mind that fat freezing is not a good option for people who are overweight. Also, this treatment is also known as CoolSculpting. Let’s find out more about this approach.

Parts of the body that cryolipolysis can treat

According to the Food and Drug Administration, cryolipolysis is used for the treatment of fat deposits under the chin, thighs, upper arms, hips, and abdomen, just to name a few. You can also use the treatment to target your glutes or lower back.

How is this procedure performed?

This procedure is usually done in an outpatient clinic or doctor’s office. In addition, the size of the fat deposits is assessed and outlined with a pencil to mark the skin. And the interesting thing is that the patient is awake during the entire procedure.

Usually, a portable device is used to freeze the fat cells under the skin. Before starting the treatment, a gel pad is used on the target area for protection. In the next stage, the fatty lump is aspirated or sucked into the hollow opening.

When the suction is applied, you may feel a pulling sensation, such as cramping, pain, stinging, and tingling. After a few minutes, the area will become numb and the layer of fat will cool down when it reaches a temperature of between 30.2 and 39.2 degrees.

For the treatment of a single area, you need to wait only about an hour. After the treatment, you can remove the applicator.

How does it destroy fat cells?

Basically, this technique says that fat cells are more prone to damage due to low temperatures. The cold temperature actually damages the fat cells and triggers a robust inflammatory response that leads to the death of the fat cells.

According to various studies, you can expect a fat reduction of up to 28% over a period of 4 months after the first treatment session. For noticeable changes, you may need to wait at least 3 weeks. For a dramatic improvement, you may need to wait around two months.

Advantages of cryolipolysis

Below are some of the main advantages of cryolipolysis.

  • No surgical incision
  • No risk of infection
  • It is not necessary to be admitted to a hospital for treatment.
  • It is not necessary to use anesthesia before the procedure.
  • A single session allows you to treat multiple areas of your body
  • Bed rest is not necessary after the procedure.
  • No age limit for the procedure
  • No risk of damage to your muscles, blood vessels or nerve fibers
  • Permanent removal of fat cells from your body.
  • Increased self-esteem after the procedure.

In a nutshell, this was a brief introduction to cryolipolysis, or fat freezing. After reading this article, you may have a better understanding of the treatment and how it can benefit you.