Cryolipolysis is the reduction of fat cells by exposure to low temperatures. Often referred to as "fat freezing," cryolipolysis has been shown empirically to reduce stubborn fat deposits that exercise and diet cannot address. The results of cryolipolysis look natural and last long, offering a solution to notorious problem areas like belly fat.
Cryolipolysis uses an applicator to isolate areas of fat and exposes them to precisely controlled temperatures that are high enough to freeze the subcutaneous layer of fat but not high enough to freeze the overlying tissue. These "frozen" fat cells then crystallized, causing the cell membrane to rupture.
Destroying actual fat cells means they can no longer store fat. It also sends signals to the body's lymphatic system, which tells it to collect damaged cells. This natural process continues for several weeks and culminates after the fat cells leave the body as waste products.
Cryolipolysis has something in common with liposuction, mainly because both procedures remove fat cells from the body. The biggest difference between them is that cryolipolysis causes a metabolic process to eliminate dead fat cells from the body. Liposuction uses a tube to suck fat cells out of the body.
Cryolipolysis can be used on many different areas of the body that have excess fat. It is usually used on the belly, tummy, and buttocks area, but can also be used under the chin and on the arms. This is a relatively quick procedure, with most sessions lasting 30 to 40 minutes. Cryolipolysis does not work right away as it involves the body's own natural processes. Therefore, once the fat cells are killed, the body begins to lose excess fat. The process begins immediately, but it may take several weeks to start seeing full results. The technique has also been found to reduce fat in targeted areas by up to 20% to 25%, which significantly reduces mass in the area.
The cryolipolysis procedure is non-invasive. Most patients usually return to their usual activities, including returning to work and exercising, on the day of surgery. Transient localized redness, bruising, and skin numbness are common side effects of treatment, which are expected to subside within a few hours. Sensory deficits usually resolve within 1 to 8 weeks.
With this non-invasive procedure, no anesthesia or pain medication is required, and there is no recovery time. The procedure is comfortable for most patients to read, work on a laptop, listen to music or just relax.
Patients who experienced fat layer reduction showed sustained results for at least 1 year after surgery. Fat cells in the treated area are gently eliminated through the body's normal metabolic process.