What is Fat Freezing and Does it Work?

Estimated reading time 4 minutes

Fat freezing also known as cryolipolysis and Coolscultping, is becoming increasingly common in the UK, and as it becomes more and more popular, the questions asked about the procedure are also increasing. Our experts at RT Aesthetics, have decided to create this short guide just for you, to help answer some of those questions.

What is fat freezing?

Known medically as cryolipolysis, fat freezing is a non-invasive medical procedure which helps clients to get rid of unwanted bulges of fat, usually targeting double chins, stomachs and ‘love handles’. Many aesthetic practitioners claim that it can help to remove up to 25% of excess fat in the targeted area, however, more research has shown clients lose between 25-40% fat per treatment. During research into cold temperatures on the human body, it was noticed that fat cells would freeze before skin cells and other tissue. During freezing, they would reduce in size as they are naturally destroyed by a process called apoptosis (natural cell death). As such, this information has been used to create an alternative to liposuction, that does not involve invasive procedures, scalpels or general anaesthetic.

During the process, the aesthetic practitioner will place specially designed applicators on your skin which target a specific area, crystallising the fat cells underneath, thus causing a reduction of fat in that targeted area. Each procedure will last between half an hour and two hours, depending upon the size of the target area. This is unlikely to be painful, although some clients have suggested that there is a slight ‘tingling’ sensation. Due to the nature of the process, the treated area will at first feel cold, and then numb.

Does fat freezing work?

When conducted by a professional in a safe environment, fat freezing can help you to lose fat from the targeted area, reducing its size. However, like all cosmetic treatment, it is important to remember that results will vary between clients, and it may take a few weeks to notice the results of the procedure. The results take 6-12 weeks, with maximum results seen at week 12.

While this is an effective method for losing fat, it is not the right procedure to undertake if you are looking to reduce weight. As fat weighs significantly less than muscle, freezing fat won’t make you lose lots of weight, despite the reduction in the size of the specific area. However, this reduction in fat will reduce your weight a little bit, and should be undertaken along with exercise and a healthy diet for the best results.

What are the risks?

Cryolipolysis is non-surgical and non-invasive, it therefore carries significantly reduced risks when compared to other fat removal solutions such as liposuction. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there is the chance of small side effects, including the numbness of nerves in the targeted area, or the possibility of uneven skin contours if fat cells are frozen at different rates. This will be fully explained to you during your consultation and our advanced aesthetic practitioner will design a treatment plan based on your own individual needs.

Is fat freezing right for me?

Increasing numbers of clients are undertaking this procedure due to the proven results and minimal risks that it offers. Cryolipolysis has had lots of media attention and is very popular among celebrities. It can help to remove stubborn fat in those problem areas, giving you additional confidence about your body once you see the results. Cryolipolysis is FDA approved and backed by Harvard scientist research; proving that the technology works and proves to be very effective in the reduction of fat cells. For more information about the procedure, or to discuss whether fat freezing is right for you, please contact one of our friendly experts – just click here.