Reader’s Digest reports that six million people have undergone a nonsurgical procedure referred to as cryolipolysis since being approved by the FDA in 2010.
Frequently referred to as CoolSculpting, it offers a way to contour the body to provide a cleaner look, as many people find that even following a strict diet and getting regular exercise still doesn’t allow them to achieve the results they want.
While liposuction has been popular for quite some time, CoolSculpting offers non-invasive fat reduction without the recovery and downtime.
How CoolSculpting Works
Fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than their surrounding tissue.
CoolSculpting takes advantage of that by delivering precise, controlled cooling that gently and effectively targets fat cells in a specific area, without harming nerves, skin, and other surrounding tissue. Once it’s cooled to the proper temperature, the fat cells freeze and die.
The body then naturally processes the dead cells, eliminating them in the weeks that follow the procedure, revealing a more sculpted figure.
Areas Where CoolSculpting Can Be Effectively and Safely Used
CoolSculpting can target stubborn fat safely and effectively in a number of areas of the body. That includes the lower buttocks, the outer and inner thighs, the abdomen and midsection, the mid-back, upper arms, and flanks, better known as “love handles.”
The Benefits of Fat Removal Procedure
This non-surgical treatment is non-invasive which means you don’t have to endure the downtime, recovery, or scars that typically come with surgery.
It can even be done on your lunch break.
The results are natural-looking as the body breaks the fat down over time without leaving any scars behind – a significant benefit for many who don’t want to worry about being self-conscious about their appearance.
It’s been clinically proven to work and there are no incisions required whatsoever.
It’s safe, effective, and approved by the FDA for fat reduction. Of course, another important benefit is a boost in self-confidence that comes without having those stubborn pockets of fat.
What Are the Dangers of CoolSculpting?
While CoolSculpting is fairly safe, there are risks associated with any cosmetic procedure, even one as non-invasive as CoolSculpting. The most common CoolSculpting concerns are the dreaded pain and swelling. Sometimes referred to as thermal pain, this intense feeling, caused by cold in the area being treated, is one of the most common symptoms of the treatment. At worst, discomfort can last up to 24 hours. The larger problem is that swelling can develop at the treatment site. The culprits, in this case, can range from poor tissue architecture to excessive fat. The treatment can also cause a big red rash, called erythema, on the skin near the treated area.
The Best Candidates for CoolSculpting
As with just about every procedure, CoolSculpting isn’t for everyone. It’s not designed for weight loss, which is why those who have a significant amount of weight to lose should do so before undergoing the procedure.
It works best on those who are at or near their target goal weight and would like to remove a small to moderate amount of fat from certain targeted problem areas. It complements a healthy exercise and diet routine rather than being a more convenient replacement.
Candidates should have reasonable goals and expectations, seek spot reduction for noticeable bulges in specific areas, preferring to avoid a surgical contouring procedure.
It’s also important to have a consultation with a board-certified physician who specializes in CoolSculpting in order to determine whether it’s right for you.
Keep in mind that while many patients will notice improvements after just one treatment, more than one visit is often required for optimal results.
Each additional session decreases the number of fat cells in the targeted area - the recommended number of sessions is based on the individual and discussed during a consult.