Cryolipolysis, more commonly known as ‘CoolSculpting’, is the latest buzz in non-surgical fat removal. Using the latest patented technology, CoolSculpting targets areas of fat that diet and exercise can’t budge.
We look in more detail at what CoolSculpting is, how it works and how you might benefit from it.
What is CoolSculpting?
Designed to get rid of stubborn areas of body fat, CoolSculpting uses unique and innovative technology to ‘freeze’ fat away. Considered as a non-invasive alternative to liposuction, CoolSculpting is clinically proven to improve fat loss after just one session.
Developed by the same California-based scientists that created laser hair removal, CoolSculpting made its debut in 2010 to rave reviews. On average, Coolsculpting can remove 20-25 per cent of fat from targeted areas such as the stomach, thighs, arms, buttocks or abs.
In trials, patients found that fat didn’t return after the treatment was done – even after three years.
There are no needles, lasers, scalpels or other equipment used, just a non-invasive machine that sits on the surface of your skin. There is no downtime after a CoolSculpting session, making it a popular choice among people wanting a quick and convenient treatment that doesn’t interfere with their daily lives. In fact, many have the treatment during their lunch break.
How does it Work?
CoolSculpting works on the theory that fat freezes at a higher temperature than muscle and skin. By applying vacuum pressure and sub-zero temperatures to areas of fat, the specially designed machine causes the fat cells to be damaged without affecting your skin or muscles.
Fat cells are not killed immediately; instead, the CoolSculpting system triggers a process called apoptosis, or the natural process of cell death. After the fat cells die, the body slowly flushes them away over the following few months. This is why patients don’t see immediate results from the treatment.
When you go in for a session, you will have the CoolSculpting machine attach a gel patch to your chosen area of fat, before feeling firm pressure and then a cooling sensation. You may feel slight discomfort but this subsides quite quickly; overall it is a relatively pain-free treatment.
Treatment time is usually around one hour depending on the size of the area that needs to be treated. Patients can read magazines, work on their laptop or relax while the treatment is being done.
Typically, only one treatment is needed to see dramatic results, however it does take several months before you’ll see the full effects of the treatment; most patients see some effects within just a few weeks.
Here is a video of Dr Joseph Ajaka from Cosmos Clinic explaining the procedure:
What are the side-effects of CoolSculpting?
Unlike alternative treatments such as laser and surgery, CoolSculpting does not have any lasting side effects. Other treatments can destroy healthy tissue resulting in scarring and can take your body a lot longer to recover from.
CoolSculpting is a very safe procedure and side-effects are usually short-lived and mild. Slight numbness, redness and bruising is common after the treatment, but does not last long.
There is no after care, such as compression garments, so it is quite easy to carry on with everyday life after treatment.
Who is CoolSculpting for?
CoolSculpting is a safe treatment and almost everyone can use it without any concern, however it is important to note that it is not designed for people who need overall fat loss. The procedure offers extremely targeted fat loss so it is ideal for the removal of small areas of stubborn fat, such as love handles, that exercise and diet just can’t get rid of.
A typical CoolSculpting patient is relatively fit and healthy. To retain the new body shape, exercise and a healthy diet needs to be maintained.
[box type=”note”]Trials on obese patients don’t appear to be successful, although it might be because the results are harder to see. Other treatments should be sought for overall weight loss.[/box]
CoolSculpting is a popular treatment for both men and women of all ages.
