Does Fat Freezing Work? | An In-Depth Review

What Is Fat Freezing and How Does It Work?

Fat freezing, or cryolipolysis, is a non-invasive treatment that reduces fat by freezing fat cells. The cold temperature breaks down fat cells, which the body gradually eliminates over time. It is effective for areas like the belly, thighs, flanks and chin, where fat is challenging to lose with diet and exercise alone. CoolSculpting® by ZELTIQ represents a well-known brand of cryolipolysis treatment that uses this technology for fat reduction.

What Sets the CoolSculpting® by ZELTIQ System Apart?

Precision Fat Reduction: CoolSculpting® uses specialised cooling technology to safely target and break down fat cells without harming surrounding tissues. The cooling is precise, focusing only on fat cells that your body gradually removes over time. Temperature control and built-in sensors help to maintain this precision.

Customised Treatments for Different Areas: The treatment can be tailored to target specific areas like the chin, thighs, abdomen, and flanks. While cryolipolysis in general can be customised, CoolSculpting® has developed these specific applicators to enhance accuracy and effectiveness for various body areas.

Approved for Safety and Results: Proven Safety and Results: CoolSculpting® is FDA-approved, ensuring it has undergone rigorous testing and is proven to safely and effectively reduce fat. While many cryolipolysis devices are FDA-cleared, CoolSculpting® was one of the first treatments to receive full FDA approval.

How Long Do Results Last?

The results are long-lasting because the fat cells targeted and destroyed during the treatment do not regenerate. However, maintaining the results depends on a healthy lifestyle. While the treated fat cells are permanently removed, remaining fat cells in untreated areas can still grow if you gain weight after the procedure. By following a balanced diet and exercise routine, you can preserve your results for the long term.

Fat Freezing as a Complementary Treatment

Fat freezing can be combined with other body contouring treatments to enhance results. Some options include:

Cavitation Therapy (e.g. Robolex): This treatment uses low-frequency ultrasound waves to break down fat cells. Robolex optimises results by combining multiple modalities, such as radiofrequency and vacuum therapy. When combined with fat freezing, it enhances fat reduction and skin tightening.

Shockwave Therapy (e.g. ProShock Ice): This treatment promotes fat elimination and tightens tissues. When combined with fat freezing, it improves the appearance of cellulite and enhances body contouring results.

Muscle Building & Fat Reduction (e.g. Emsculpt): This treatment uses electromagnetic waves to tone muscles and improve fat metabolism. When combined with fat freezing, patients may achieve a more defined muscle tone and quality while also losing stubborn fat.

Is Fat Freezing Right for You?

Fat freezing is intended for individuals who are close to their ideal weight but have localised fat pockets that are resistant to diet and exercise.

Ideal Candidates for Fat Freezing

BMI Under 30: Those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 30 typically see the best results. Fat freezing is most effective for people looking to reduce isolated fat deposits rather than achieve significant weight loss.

Good Skin Elasticity: Candidates with good skin elasticity will benefit most, as firm, resilient skin better adapts to the body’s new shape after fat reduction.

Who Should Avoid Fat Freezing?

Some health conditions may make fat freezing unsuitable for certain individuals. Consider the following when determining if this treatment is right for you.

Sensitivity to Cold Temperatures: Individuals with allergic reactions to cold temperatures, such as cryoglobulinemia or cold urticaria, should avoid fat freezing, as cold exposure during the procedure can trigger or worsen symptoms of these conditions.

Severe Skin Laxity: If you have excessive skin looseness, fat freezing may not provide the desired results, as it focuses on fat reduction, not skin tightening. In such instances, other body sculpting modalities in our portfolio may be more effective.

Active Skin Infections or Open Wounds: Any infection or open wound in the treatment area must heal before undergoing the procedure.

Nerve Conditions: Individuals with nerve-related conditions, such as neuropathy or Raynaud’s disease, may face additional risks during fat freezing.

Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: Fat freezing is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to limited research on its safety during these stages.

Common Side Effects and Considerations

While fat freezing is generally safe, there are some side effects and considerations to keep in mind:

Discomfort and Numbness: Cold and numbness during the procedure are common, with tingling or sensitivity possible afterwards, due to the cooling applied to the fat cells. These usually subside within a few hours or days.

Redness and Swelling: Temporary redness, swelling, or mild bruising may occur in the treated area but typically resolve within a few days or weeks.

Conclusion

Fat freezing provides an effective, non-invasive solution for stubborn fat, serving as a convenient alternative to surgical body contouring. While it offers targeted fat reduction, it’s important to have realistic expectations, as results develop gradually and may require multiple sessions for optimal outcomes. This treatment is best suited for individuals near their ideal weight looking to sculpt specific areas.

Ready to reduce stubborn fat? Contact Dr Cindy’s Medical Aesthetics to schedule a personalised consultation to determine whether fat freezing is right for you!