Fat freezing, also known as cryolipolysis, is a cosmetic treatment that is effective in shaping the body by tackling unwanted fat through the process of freezing the cells. With the growing acceptance of cosmetic treatment worldwide, it is one of many popular methods used to improve a person’s body image and restore the associated mental wellbeing of self-esteem. It gained FDA approval in 2010 and has been increasingly adopted, leading it to become one of the most widespread non-surgical cosmetic treatments.
The treatment works by, quite literally, freezing the fat of a person’s body. This is performed by applying suction cups to the desired area of the body and then reducing the temperature to a level that destroys the fat cells. It is able to do so through the skin because the cells of the skill are more resilient than those that make up our body’s fat.
A patient will find themselves laid or sat for an hour or two while a number of small cups are attached to the skin. The device then chills the gripped area leading to the crystallisation of the fat cells. As with most cosmetic treatments, there is some associated and minor discomfort. However, as is to be expected, with fat freezing you quickly become numb to the experience. Many practitioners will offer entertainment or consultation during this time. Often people claim to find the treatment relaxing and some even bring their work to the appointment!
Following the procedure, the body gets to work removing the destroyed fat cells. This process is gradual and may take a few weeks or even months. Depending on a number of circumstances, mostly the shape of your desired body, a number of sessions will be required.
Fat freezing, by its design, is permanent. The fat affected by the treatment is destroyed and removed. However, as with all fat reduction treatments, its sustained effect requires maintenance of lifestyle that supports the level of body fat. The fat may be removed from the body, improving your appearance, but if you do not adapt your lifestyle to this new body shape it will soon return.
Typically fat freezing is adopted for areas of stubborn fat, or those that may appear to be unavoidable. Patches of fat around the hips, arms, and chest, those that are often accentuated by clothing, are the most common areas for treatment. Many of these areas are a side-effect of ageing and the treatment works to restore the confidence of youth.
Due to its non-invasive and non-surgical methodology, the treatment is often a first choice. Compared to other treatments, it has little risk. The patient may experience a slightly extended period of numbness upon the skin as well as a chance of swelling. However, when using reputable professionals, which it is always, recommended to do, these are of low occurrence. If you do happen to experience any type of symptom you believe to be related to the treatment, and then contact your practitioner.