When it comes to cryolipolysis, all your concerns can be addressed right here
Winter is famously the season for putting on weight, and achieving the perfect body shape is a perennial goal. So, when summer arrives, discussions around weight loss, fat reduction, and shedding pounds become hot topics once again.
In recent years, alongside liposuction, cryolipolysis has gained popularity as a new tool for effortless body sculpting. Is it truly safe? Will there be a rebound after treatment? Let's delve into the details.
What is Cryolipolysis?
Cryolipolysis, also known as fat freezing or cool sculpting, utilizes advanced vacuum cooling technology to target and chill fat cells in specific areas precisely. By inducing apoptosis (cell death) in these fat cells, the body naturally metabolizes and eliminates them, effectively reducing the thickness of fat layers.
It's a non-invasive method that selectively cools body areas using specialized equipment, converting triglycerides from liquid to solid form, causing crystallization and subsequent cell death. This metabolic process gradually reduces targeted fat cells, achieving localized fat reduction and body contouring.
Who is Suitable for Cryolipolysis?
Experts emphasize that cryolipolysis is suitable only for spot reduction and is commonly used on areas like the abdomen, hips, flanks, buttocks, thighs, upper arms, lower face, and neck. It's ideal for individuals who maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen but struggle with localized fat deposits.
However, it's not recommended for:
Individuals with overall obesity or severe overweight
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Those with impaired liver function
People with conditions like cold agglutinin disease, cryoglobulinemia, or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria
Those with open or infected wounds, skin conditions, bleeding disorders, or implanted devices without prior medical consultation.
Procedure of Cryolipolysis
The entire cryolipolysis session typically lasts about an hour and follows these steps:
A body assessment is conducted to analyze fat distribution.
The treatment area is marked for precise targeting.
A protective sheet is applied to prevent frostbite.
The cooling applicator is applied to the treatment area, which is quickly suctioned into place to initiate the cooling process.
Initially, there may be a brief discomfort or pinching sensation, which subsides quickly, making the treatment relatively comfortable.
After 35 minutes of cooling, the treatment is completed.
A brief massage of 3-5 minutes is performed to relax the treated area.
Precautions for Cryolipolysis
Before and after cryolipolysis treatment, it's important to:
Ensure proper control of the cooling device temperature to avoid skin damage.
Avoid rubbing or pressing the treated area immediately after treatment to prevent exacerbating surface damage or increasing bruising.
Maintain a controlled diet and regular exercise regimen after treatment to prevent rebound effects.
Common Questions About Cryolipolysis
1. What is the Difference Between Cryolipolysis and Laser Lipolysis?
Both techniques aim to eliminate fat cells, but they differ in their approach. Laser lipolysis uses heat (42 degrees Celsius) to target fat cells, while cryolipolysis freezes fat cells (to about 4 degrees Celsius).
2. Are There Side Effects of Cryolipolysis?
Some minor redness or soreness in the treated area may occur, which typically resolves within a few days. In some cases, abnormal fat tissue growth may occur months after treatment, requiring further procedures like liposuction or surgical removal.
3. Is Cryolipolysis Immediate?
Following cryolipolysis, the body typically takes about 8 to 12 weeks to process apoptotic fat cells, with noticeable changes often observed around four weeks post-treatment.
This comprehensive overview provides a thorough understanding of cryolipolysis. While it doesn't treat obesity and should not replace a healthy lifestyle, continuing proper diet and regular exercise remains crucial for maintaining body shape.