Cryolipolysis Explained

Cryolipolysis (commonly referred to as "fat freezing") is a non-invasive procedure for fat removal that uses extreme cold to freeze subcutaneous adipose tissue in specific areas of the body. This process aims to reduce localized fat deposits.^{[1] [2] [3]}

Cryolipolysis is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating several areas, including the submental area, jawline, arms, lumbar rolls, flanks, abdomen, thighs, and under the buttocks.

The term "cryolipolysis" is often used interchangeably with brand names like CoolSculpting, which is one of the most well-known implementations of this technology.^[4]

Effectiveness

Studies have shown that cryolipolysis is modestly effective in reducing localized fat. A 2015 systematic review of 19 studies found average reductions in skinfold thickness ranging from 10.3% to 28.5%, with high levels of patient satisfaction.^[5] A 2023 review of 18 studies reported average reductions in fat thickness of 2.0 to 5.1 mm as measured by ultrasound, concluding that the procedure is safe and modestly effective, though the quality of available data was considered low.

Adverse Effects

Common side effects include redness (erythema), numbness, swelling, bruising, and mild pain, typically resolving within weeks. Rare but more serious complications include paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), a reaction where fat in the treated area enlarges instead of reducing.^[6] PAH occurs in a small percentage of cases, with rates reported between 0.12% and 1.0% depending on the study.^[7] Treatment options for PAH include surgical liposuction or abdominoplasty.

Development

Cryolipolysis technology was developed and introduced in the United States in 2010 by Zeltiq Aesthetics, later acquired by Allergan Aesthetics in 2017.^{[8] [9]}

Notes and References

1. Kania B, Goldberg DJ . Cryolipolysis: A promising nonsurgical technique for localized fat reduction . J Cosmet Dermatol . 22 . Suppl 3 . 1–7 . November 2023 . 37988716 . 10.1111/jocd.16039 . free .
2. Hetzel J, Awad N, Bhupalam V, Nestor M . Cryolipolysis in the United States-Review of the clinical data . J Cosmet Dermatol . 22 . Suppl 3 . 8–14 . November 2023 . 37988714 . 10.1111/jocd.16029 . free .
3. Web site: Cryolipolysis is the process of freezing fat . 2024-04-12 . www.uclahealth.org . en.
4. Derrick CD, Shridharani SM, Broyles JM . The Safety and Efficacy of Cryolipolysis: A Systematic Review of Available Literature . Aesthet Surg J . 35 . 7 . 830–6 . September 2015 . 26038367 . 10.1093/asj/sjv039 .
5. Ingargiola MJ, Motakef S, Chung MT, Vasconez HC, Sasaki GH . Cryolipolysis for fat reduction and body contouring: safety and efficacy of current treatment paradigms . Plast Reconstr Surg . 135 . 6 . 1581–1590 . June 2015 . 26017594 . 4444424 . 10.1097/PRS.0000000000001236 .
6. Cox EA, Nichols DS, Riklan JE, Pomputius A, Mehta SD, Mast BA, Furnas H, Canales F, Sorice-Virk S . Characteristics and Treatment of Patients Diagnosed With Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia After Cryolipolysis: A Case Series and Scoping Review . Aesthet Surg J . 42 . 12 . NP763–NP774 . December 2022 . 35961054 . 10.1093/asj/sjac219 .
7. Stroumza N, Gauthier N, Senet P, Moguelet P, Nail Barthelemy R, Atlan M . Paradoxical Adipose Hypertrophy (PAH) After Cryolipolysis . Aesthet Surg J . 38 . 4 . 411–417 . March 2018 . 29145587 . 10.1093/asj/sjx159.
8. Krueger N, Mai SV, Luebberding S, Sadick NS . Cryolipolysis for noninvasive body contouring: clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction . Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol . 7 . 201–5 . 2014 . 25061326 . 4107833 . 10.2147/CCID.S44371 . free .
9. News: Allergan completes acquisition of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, CoolSculpting. 2017-04-28. Healio.