Key Takeaways
- Yes, cryolipolysis (commonly known as “fat freezing”) is generally considered a safe and effective cosmetic procedure for reducing localized fat deposits.
- Cryolipolysis effectively reduces fat in targeted areas by permanently destroying subcutaneous fat cells through controlled cooling.
- Results are permanent but not immediate, with optimal fat reduction visible around 3 months and full effects taking up to 6 months.
- Ideal candidates are near their target weight with pinchable, diet-resistant fat bulges and a BMI typically under 30 for most body areas.
- CoolSculpting is not a weight-loss nonsurgical solution and works best for body contouring.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment designed to reduce stubborn fat deposits.
What is the Cryolipolysis Procedure
The procedure uses a specialized applicator to suction your skin and underlying fat. It then delivers controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate fat cells. Your body naturally processes and removes these dead cells over time.
The Core Scientific Mechanism
Unlike skin cells or muscle cells, adipocytes are rich in lipid droplets. These droplets freeze at a higher temperature (-10°C to -5°C) than water-based tissues (which freeze at ~0°C). This means targeted cooling can crystallize fat cells without damaging nearby structures.
When fat cells freeze, the ice crystals inside them disrupt their membranes and organelles. This damage is irreversible—once crystallized, the fat cells can no longer function.
Targeted Areas of Cryolipolysis
CoolSculpting effectively treats specific areas where fat resists diet and exercise.
Common treatment zones include:
- Abdomen: targeting love handles and belly fat.
- Flanks: sculpting the sides of your waist.
- Thighs: reducing inner and outer thigh fat.
- Chin: contouring the submental area (double chin).
- Back: addressing bra fat and back rolls.
The Treatment Time
A single CoolSculpting session typically lasts about 35 to 60 minutes per area.
Safety and Side Effects
Normally, CoolSculpting is a safe procedure with minimal side effects because it’s non-surgical. You might experience temporary effects in the treated area, such as:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tingling
- Numbness
These sensations usually resolve on their own within a few days or weeks.
What is Body Fat
There are two main types of fat in human body, each with distinct locations and functions.
Subcutaneous fat
Subcutaneous fat sits directly beneath your skin. You can pinch this fat layer on areas like your abdomen, thighs, and flanks.
Cryolipolysis primarily targets subcutaneous fat because controlled cooling effectively crystallizes these fat cells without damaging your skin or underlying tissues.
Visceral fat
Visceral fat surrounds your internal organs deep within your abdominal cavity. You cannot pinch this type of fat.
While cryolipolysis is designed for subcutaneous fat, some research indicates it may also reduce visceral fat, which is linked to metabolic health risks.
Does CoolSculpting Work?
Clinical Evidence of CoolSculpting Fat Reduction
Studies confirm cryolipolysis produces measurable results.
- Reduces fat layer thickness by 14% to 32% in treated areas.
- Shows significant body contour improvement for 77% to 86% of patients.
- Provides lasting outcomes since the treated fat cells are gone for good.
How Long Can You See Results of CoolSculpting?
You typically notice initial changes within a few weeks. Your body continues processing the damaged fat cells for several months, with optimal results appearing around the 3-month mark. Full effects can take up to 6 months.
What Makes the Results Permanent?
Cause diet and exercise only shrink fat cells. CoolSculpting destroys them. The body’s inflammatory response clears these dead cells permanently. Any future weight gain distributes evenly, as the treated area has fewer fat cells to expand.
Realistic Expectations for Your Body
CoolSculpting works best for reducing specific, pinchable fat bulges that resist diet and exercise.
It’s not a weight-loss solution for obesity. Your individual results depend on factors like the treatment area and your body’s unique response.
Who is a Good Candidate for CoolSculpting?
If you have small, localized pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise you are a good candiate.
The procedure works best on soft, pinchable fat in specific areas.
Ideal Physical Characteristics
You should be within about 10 to 15 pounds of your ideal body weight.
Good skin tone is also important, as the procedure doesn’t address significant loose skin.
FDA Clearance and BMI Guidelines
The FDA clearance for CoolSculpting includes specific Body Mass Index (BMI) guidelines. These guidelines help ensure the treatment’s safety and effectiveness for different body areas.
| Body Area | Maximum BMI for Treatment |
|---|---|
| Most Body Areas (e.g., abdomen, flanks) | ≤ 30 |
| Submental Region (under the chin) | Up to 46.2 |
Who should avoid CoolSculpting?
You must be in good general health to undergo the CoolSculpting procedure. Certain medical conditions are contraindications, meaning they prevent you from being a candidate.
- Avoids the procedure if you have cryoglobulinemia, cold urticaria, or paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria.
- Consults with a provider about any other cold-related conditions.
Why It Works Better Than Alternative Fat Reduction Procedure?
