Overview
Cryolipolysis is a non-surgical technique that cools an area of localised fat with an applicator placed on the skin. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold than the tissue around them. At a temperature of -5 to -12 °C, they go through programmed cell death, and the body clears them over the following weeks. It is not a treatment for excess weight. It is meant for localised fat in people whose weight is stable.
Indications
- Abdomen and love handles
- Saddlebags and inner thighs
- Double chin
- Inner arms
- Back fat
- Inner knees
What to expect
- 1A consultation to examine the area, check for contraindications and choose the applicator
- 2A protective layer is placed on the skin, then the applicator
- 3The area is cooled for 30 to 60 minutes per applicator, and the feeling of cold eases after a few minutes
- 4The area is massaged once the applicator is removed
- 5The result is assessed at around 3 months
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Cold-related conditions such as cryoglobulinaemia or cold agglutinin disease
- A hernia in the area to be treated
- Altered sensation in the area
- Clotting disorders or anticoagulant treatment, to be mentioned before the session
- General excess weight, which cryolipolysis does not treat
Frequently asked questions
When will I see the result?
The area shrinks gradually. The first changes usually show 4 to 6 weeks after the session, and the result is assessed at 3 to 4 months, once the body has cleared the affected fat cells.
How many sessions are needed?
One or two sessions per area are usually needed. An extra session can be offered to refine the result, once it has been assessed at a follow-up visit.
What happens afterwards?
You can return to your usual activities straight away. The area can stay red for a few hours. Numbness, tingling or a pulling sensation are common and can last up to 2 weeks. Bruising is possible, and the skin can stay sensitive for up to 4 weeks.
Do the fat cells come back?
The cells affected by the cold are cleared by the body. The fat cells that remain can still grow if you gain weight, so keeping a stable weight helps maintain the result.
Who should not have cryolipolysis?
Cryolipolysis is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, with a hernia in the area to be treated, or with certain cold-related conditions such as cryoglobulinaemia or cold agglutinin disease. Tell the doctor at the consultation about Raynaud's disease, cold urticaria, anticoagulant treatment or recent surgery in the area.