The procedure can be performed in a doctor's office or as an outpatient. The size and shape of the fat deposits are assessed and the area to be treated is outlined with a skin marking pencil. The patient remains awake during the procedure.

A handheld device called an applicator is used to freeze the layer of fat cells (adipocytes) under the skin. First, a gel pad is applied to the area to protect the skin. Next, the fat bulge is suctioned or vacuumed into the hollow opening of the applicator. When suction is applied, you will feel a pulling or tugging sensation. These sensations, the intense cold and possibly other sensations - tingling, prickling, pain, cramping - will lessen after 5 to 10 minutes after the area becomes numb during the cooling process. The fat layer is gradually cooled to a target temperature between 30.2 and 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit.

It takes up to one hour to treat an area. After treating the area, remove the applicator. The area can be massaged for 2 to 3 minutes to help break down the fat cells.

How are fat cells destroyed?

The technique is based on the finding that fat cells are more susceptible to damage from low temperatures than other cells, such as skin cells. Low temperatures can damage fat cells. The damage triggers an inflammatory response in the body, which leads to fat cell death. Macrophages are white blood cells that are part of the body's immune system and are "called to the site of injury" to remove dead fat cells and debris from the body.

How much localized fat can cryolipolysis reduce and when do I start noticing results?

Studies have shown an average fat loss of 15% to 28% about 4 months after the initial treatment. However, you may begin to notice changes as early as 3 weeks after treatment. Significant improvements occur after about 2 months.

What are the benefits of Cryolipolysis?

Cryolipolysis has many advantages.

No surgical incisions are required.

It is a low-risk procedure. There is no risk of infection.

The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis.

Patients do not require sedation or anesthesia prior to undergoing the procedure.

Multiple body parts can be treated in one session.

Most people can return to their normal daily activities immediately after treatment.

The procedure can be performed on people of all ages.

There is no damage to nerve fibers, blood vessels, or muscles in the treated area or lasting damage to the skin.

Fat cells that have been damaged or destroyed are permanently removed from the body.

Patients may experience an increase in self-esteem due to the improved appearance.

What are the disadvantages of Cryolipolysis?

Disadvantages of Cryolipolysis include

The procedure is only recommended for people in good general health who do not have neurological or orthopedic problems and are looking for "localized" fat reduction in specific areas of the body. Cryolipolysis is not recommended for people who are significantly overweight or obese.

There is a risk of irregular/unsmooth skin surface after healing.

More than one session may be required to achieve a person's desired results.

If multiple sessions are required, the next session should not be performed until 6 to 8 weeks after the first session. This is because it can take a long time to remove damaged fat cells from the body.

Results are not immediately apparent. Since fat cells are gradually removed from the body, it may take 3 to 6 months to achieve optimal results.

A rare side effect that may occur is paradoxical fat growth. In this rare case, the size of the fat cells increases after cryolipolysis. Men and Hispanics are more likely to experience it.

Weight may increase after cryolipolysis is performed. Fat may be deposited in other parts of the body.

Is there anyone for whom cryolipolysis is not recommended?

Cryolipolysis should not be performed on patients who are obese or significantly overweight. In addition, it should not be performed on skin areas that have been cut or injured, contain severe varicose veins, dermatitis or other skin lesions.

It is not suitable for people who are sensitive to cold or intolerant to cold. The procedure is not recommended for individuals who have

Raynaud's phenomenon. A rare condition in which cold temperatures block blood flow to the fingers and toes.

Cryoglobulinemia. A type of vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) caused by an abnormal protein that becomes solid or gel-like at low temperatures. It is associated with blood vessel blockages and other problems.

Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria. A very rare autoimmune disease in which red blood cells are damaged when exposed to cold.

Cold urticaria. A rare condition in which red, itchy patches of skin appear after exposure to cold temperatures (urticaria).

Cold agglutinin disease. A rare form of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own red blood cells. This condition is usually triggered or worsened by hypothermia.

Other conditions that pose a risk include

Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Neurological diseases, such as diabetic neuropathy

Inflammatory skin diseases

Skin conditions caused by immune system disorders, such as eczema or psoriasis

What are the immediate side effects after Cryolipolysis?

Temporary side effects in the treated area may include

Pain or tenderness

Stinging or tingling of the skin

Redness

Swelling

Discoloration or bruising of the skin

Skin sensitivity or numbness

Side effects may last for several days to several weeks after treatment. Your doctor may recommend analgesics to relieve pain or other discomfort.

How many cryolipolysis treatments are usually needed?

You may have only one problem area and may only need one treatment. You may have more than one problem area to treat, or you may need more than one treatment in a particular area to achieve your desired goals. You will work with your doctor to design a plan - and number of treatments - that best meets your desired goals.