Cryolipolysis

Cryolipolysis, is a cosmetic treatment that freezes excess fat to remove it from stubborn areas. CoolSculpting works by vacuuming the skin above the area of fatty tissue into an applicator that cools the fat cells.

The procedure is performed with a hand-held device that uses suction to pull the targeted area away from the body to isolate it for treatment and then gradually cool it to between 32.2 and 39 degrees Fahrenheit. The session takes about an average of 30 to 60 minutes depending on the treatment area. Changes to the area may become visible a few weeks after the procedure has been performed, but typically take two months or more. Studies show that up to 28% of the fat can dissipate four months after treatment, depending on the targeted area.

For most people, the risks of surgery are the largest deterrent. While they are small when your procedure is performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, every surgery still has serious risk factors.

Cryolipolysis, however, has far fewer risks. It does have some side effects like temporary numbness and redness in the area, but they tend to be minor and fade in a hurry. There’s no anesthesia involved, nor is there any bleeding.

Everyone’s body accumulates and stores fat in different places, and sometimes they aren’t the places we’d choose. That’s one of the key differences between weight loss and fat reduction. When you lose weight, you can’t choose what fat your body burns.

Cryolipolysis, on the other hand, is built to target the specific areas you choose. A provider places the applicator on the area of your choosing, giving you localized fat reduction. It even works well on stubborn areas that tend to resist dieting and exercise.

One of the most common questions our patients ask about CoolSculpting is, “But can it treat MY problem areas?” Since its initial FDA clearance, CoolSculpting keeps gaining clearance for more and more body areas.

So far, Cryolipolysis can treat the following areas:

• Abdomen
• Thighs
• Under the chin (the “double chin”)
• Flanks, or “love handles”
• Bra bulge (the pinchable area next to the armpit)
• Back
• Upper arms
• “Banana roll” (the area under the buttocks)

• Before your treatment, you will have a consultation to discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns. This helps determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.

• On the day of your treatment, you’ll be asked to change into a comfortable gown. A protective gel pad will be applied to the treatment area to safeguard your skin.

• The Cryolipolysis device will be positioned on the targeted area, where it will deliver controlled cooling to the fat cells beneath the skin.
• The cooling process typically lasts 35 to 60 minutes, during which you may feel intense cold, but it usually subsides quickly. Many patients find the sensation manageable and may even relax, read, or use their phones during the session.

• After the procedure, the treated area may feel numb or tingly, and you may notice some redness, swelling, or bruising. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.

• There is little to no downtime, allowing you to return to your daily activities immediately.
• Results typically become noticeable within a few weeks as your body naturally processes and eliminates the treated fat cells. Optimal results may take 2 to 3 months.