We are born with a finite number of fat cells which increase in size to store fat globules with weight gain. Cryolipolysis (fat freezing) is a treatment for permanent elimination of fat. By placing vacuum applicators onto pockets of fat, tissue is selectively frozen down to -8 degrees. At this temperature fat cells may be destroyed, and subsequently excreted by the body over a period of 6-12 weeks.
As tissue is not penetrated or broken during cryolipolysis, patients often able to return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
Although useful for targeting pockets of fat, cryolipolysis should not (and cannot) be used as a treatment for obesity. Instead it is suitable for use alongside exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
FAT FREEZING (CRYO) OVERVIEW
Cryolipolysis | Non-Invasive Fat Reduction | Permanent Fat Reduction
+ Am I suitable?
FAT FREEZING (CRYO) FAQs
- age < 18 years
- pregnancy and breastfeeding
- systemic inflammation or illness including hepatic dysfunction, metabolic disorders, diabetes and/or hepatitis
- concurrent use of blood-thinning agents aspirin, clopidogrel (plavix), warfarin, heparin etc
- tissue composition not suited to fat cryolipolysis
- conditions that cause sensitivity to cold e.g. paroxysmalcold haemoglobuinuria, cyroglobulinaemia, cold urticaria, reynaud's disease
- previous trauma or surgery to the area including in cases of excessive scar tissue formation
- pre-existing or suspected hernia in the area of treatment
- underlying neuropathy or neuropathic disorder
- disorders of lymphatic insufficiency
- conditions of vascular insufficiency e.g. peripheral vascular disease
- clotting and/or bleeding disorders
- active, or history of underlying skin condition at the site e.g. psoriasis, eczema, infection, open lesions
- implanted medical devices e.g. shunts, pacemaker, defibrillator
- smoking and/or recent alcohol intake
+ What are the risks and expected side effects?
- Redness, bruising, swelling and pain in the treatment area is expected and may persist for multiple weeks to be replaced by itchiness, sensitivity and/or numbness. Generally the latter-mentioned symptoms will resolve within a matter of weeks-months
- Following resolution of swelling hardening and lumpiness at the treatment site may occur. This can take over a month to resolve
- During and after treatment of fat under the chin, a feeling of fullness in the throat may be experienced. This may create the sensation of difficulty swallowing
Less commonly the following adverse effects may occur:
- Intense muscle cramping/spasm or shooting pain lasting 1-2 weeks, may be managed with simple analgesia and/or compression garments
- Vasovagal (fainting symptoms) following removal of applicators - mostly due to redistribution of blood flow that occurs with warming of frozen tissue
- Hyperpigmentation - often resolves spontaneously
- Hernia - may occur as a result of treatment due to intense suction applied by the vacuum. A thorough assessment of underlying hernia risk will occur during consideration of your suitability for treatment
- Paradoxical hyperplasia - may develop 2-5 months after treatment and results in rebound exacerbation of fat tissue
- Delayed nerve pain has been associated with cryolipolysis treatments. Most often transient, this can be managed with medication targeted towards the treatment of nerve pain
- Poor results - can include assymmetry, poor response to treatment and/or demarcation of tissue
+ How many treatments will I need?
Complete resolution of fat is often not achievable, however improvement may be possible. Studies have shown an average reduction of between 20-30% of the fat layer per application.
+ What should I do prior to treatment?
- Ideally avoid use of blood-thinning medication (in accordance with medical advice) for 2 weeks prior to treatment
- Avoid alcohol consumption and/or recreational drug use at least 48 hours prior to treatment
- Commence an exercise and dietary program conducive to optimal weight management
- Consider cessation of smoking
+ What happens during treatment?
During treatment you will discuss the risks and side effects of treatment with your artisan; prior to being provided the opportunity to ask questions and sign a consent form. Photos will be attended, and the treatment area(s) identified. Your weight and measurements including skin fold will be taken and the areas prepared for treatment.
The location of the area of concern will be confirmed with you prior to proceeding.
You will be positioned on our treatment bed and gel pads will be applied to the treatment site(s). Applicators are applied and you will experience the sensation of the vacuum, coupled with cooling. Approximately 5 minutes into treatment the area will go numb. You will remain on the machine between 45-70 minutes depending on the treatment, during which you will be offered our ipad to watch subscription streaming. Throughout the procedure your artisan will continue to enquire as to your comfort. Refreshments are available if required.
Once the cycle(s) is complete, 2 minutes of massage is attended which can become temporarily uncomfortable as tissue defrosts.