Fat freezing, or cryolipolysis, is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure to reduce stubborn fat pockets; find out if this FDA-approved fat reduction treatment is right for you and what to consider.
If you’re not seeing the fat freezing trend, um, everywhere, are you even online? We find a lot of conflicting info out there about this somewhat strange technology, so what’s the deal?
- What Is Fat Freezing?
- Fat Freezing Eligibility
- Fat Freezing Benefits
- Things to Consider
- Pros and Cons of Fat Freezing
- Common Side Effects
- Rare Side Effects of Fat Freezing
Let’s dig a little deeper into this topic together.
What Is Fat Freezing?
It’s basically a non-surgical technology where a cosmetic surgeon freezes fat cells under the skin. The idea is that those frozen fat cells die, and then the body gets rid of them through the lymphatic system. This can take like, one to four months to really see a difference after the treatment.
Often, fat freezing sessions are pretty quick, lasting around an hour. This relatively new tech got the green light from the FDA in 2012, which, y’know, adds a bit of legitimacy.
Fat Freezing Eligibility
Despite diet and exercise, this tech works to eliminate fat cells permanently. So that’s one of the many upsides to it. Here are some other things that make you a good candidate, such as the following:
- It’s considered a pretty safe technology with relatively few risks.
- No need for surgery, minimizing visible scarring or suture related issues, or infections.
- Folks can usually go back to their daily routines soon after the session, which is cool.
- Results start showing up naturally, which is, like, a slower burn but looks more real, I guess.
- It can help sculpt certain areas for people who are at a healthy weight but have stubborn fat pockets in specific spots on their body.
- The number of fat cells removed is relatively low, as it only removes a portion of the fat tissues.
Fat Freezing Benefits
Gotta consider these before jumping in, right? So, before you jump on the fat-freezing bandwagon, there are a few things you should think about, like:
- This technology is still relatively new, so long-term effects aren’t fully known yet. We’re still learning as we go.
- Not many qualified technicians can do it, so make sure you go to someone experienced and certified before booking anything.
- It’s really meant for specific body areas, like the belly, love handles, upper arms, and under the chin.
It’s like, the fat you can pinch and is annoying to you. So, while we’re talking about body areas, there’s a related area that often gets overlooked – cellulite. While fat freezing primarily targets subcutaneous fat, it doesn’t directly address cellulite. However, some newer treatments combine fat freezing with other modalities, such as radiofrequency or acoustic wave therapy, to improve the appearance of cellulite in conjunction with fat reduction. It’s worth checking if those are available near you, depending on what you want to improve.
Things to Consider
Even though it’s considered a safe technology, it’s not a total cure-all for obesity. It’s more for getting rid of specific fat pockets that don’t go away with exercise and diet. Here are some instances where this technology isn’t the best bet:
- Folks who have a generally weak immune system.
- Pregnant women or women planning to get pregnant, or those who are breastfeeding.
- People with a condition called cryoglobulinemia, where certain proteins in the blood get too high in cold temps.
- People with cold agglutinin disease, which is an autoimmune thing where temperature changes can kill red blood cells.
- Those with Raynaud’s disease.
- Folks with nerve conditions, like multiple sclerosis.
- People with skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis.
- People who recently had surgery in the area they want to treat.
- Anyone taking blood-thinning meds.
- If the area to be treated is extra sensitive.
- People with wounds.
Pros and Cons of Fat Freezing
Although research is still, to some extent, in its early stages regarding fat freezing, it’s generally considered safer than other cosmetic procedures, like liposuction. Generally, folks don’t feel much pain or discomfort during the procedure.
That said, people considering this option should understand the risks associated with any cosmetic surgery that involves incisions and tampering with the body’s natural processes. Minor side effects that may occur in rare cases, and usually resolve within days, include:
- Tingling and less sensation in the area – usually temporary.
- Redness.
- Feeling itchy.
- Bruising in the treated area.
- Swelling.
- Tenderness.
- Discomfort.
- Skin sensitivity.
- Mild to moderate pain.
- Muscle cramps.
- Itchiness, specifically a few days after the session.
- Overall, that the body is trying to get rid of those dead fat cells.
Common Side Effects
Rarely, some pretty strange side effects can happen, where fat cells actually get bigger instead of smaller! This is more common in men than women, but hey, it’s rare, right? And just so you know, it’s usually not dangerous, but it can affect a person’s appearance.
Here are some other rare side effects that can happen after fat freezing:
- Lasting pain that can stick around for days or even months.
- Numbness, or changes in skin color.
- Nerve damage due to treatment.
- Swelling in the belly button.
- Hernias appearing because of the freezing.
- Darkening and swelling of the skin.
- Fluid-filled blisters.
- Inflammation in the fat tissues from the freezing.
- Scars on the surface of the skin.
Rare Side Effects of Fat Freezing
Key takeaways
- Fat freezing, or cryolipolysis, is a non-surgical procedure that can help reduce fat pockets
- Not everyone is eligible for fat freezing, as some conditions may interfere with the treatment
- While generally safe, fat freezing can have potential side effects, both common and rare, so consider these before getting the procedure done
FAQ, Myth & Facts
Is fat freezing a weight-loss procedure?
No, fat freezing is not a weight-loss procedure, nor is it a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Instead, fat freezing is a cosmetic procedure to eliminate fat tissues in stubborn spots on your body.
Is fat freezing painful?
The pain depends on the person, but most people don’t find it painful at all. Some people can experience pain and other side effects, so it is important to talk to your doctor and be aware of any pre-existing conditions before getting the procedure done.
Is fat freezing safe?
Fat freezing is considered a low-risk, non-invasive procedure that has been approved by the FDA. However, as with any procedure, there is a potential for side effects, so it is important to consult with a qualified professional before getting fat freezing done.
I was really self-conscious about my love handles and was looking for a way to get rid of them without surgery. Fat freezing seemed like a good option, and I was really happy with the results. The procedure was quick and easy, and I saw a noticeable difference in my shape after a few months. It really boosted my confidence!
After having kids, I had some stubborn belly fat that just wouldn’t go away with diet and exercise. I decided to try fat freezing as a last resort, and I’m so glad I did! The procedure was a little uncomfortable, but the results were worth it. My clothes fit better, and I feel so much better about my body.
I had a double chin that I hated, and fat freezing seemed like a less invasive way to get rid of it than surgery. The procedure was quick, and the recovery was easy. I’m really happy with the results. My chin looks more defined, and I feel better about my appearance.
So, it’s important to weigh those pros and cons and chat with a qualified professional to see if fat freezing is a good option for you. For me, I’m sticking to my gym routine… for now, anyway!
