Cryolipolysis: what is it?

Cryolipolysis is a modern, non-invasive aesthetic treatment, commonly referred to as fat freezing or cold therapy. Its main goal is effective body contouring combined with reducing locally accumulated fat tissue.

This method involves controlled body cooling, during which a low temperature (usually from -5°C to -10°C) directly affects fat cells, or adipocytes. The cold leads to triglyceride crystallization, initiating the process of apoptosis - programmed cell death of fat cells.

The damaged adipocytes are naturally and gradually eliminated from the body by the lymphatic system as part of standard metabolic processes. Cryolipolysis is a selective method, providing a safe alternative to invasive solutions such as liposuction.

Cryolipolysis is highly valued as a method of permanently removing locally accumulated fat deposits. The effectiveness of this procedure is high: clinical studies confirm that even a single session can reduce fat layer by 20-45%, resulting in a visible decrease in body circumference. The first effects of cryolipolysis are visible relatively quickly, usually within 2-6 weeks. However, to achieve full and final results of the procedure, one must wait 2 or 3 months. This is the time needed for the body to fully remove damaged fat cells (adipocytes) through natural metabolic processes. Eliminated adipocytes do not have the ability to regenerate, so the results of the procedure are permanent. The key to maintaining the effects of cryolipolysis, however, is a healthy lifestyle: balanced diet and regular physical activity - preventing the development of fat cells in other body areas.

To ensure permanent removal of fat tissue, precise execution of cryolipolysis is essential. Here are the key stages of the procedure:

1.  Detailed consultation where the specialist assesses the fat layer and rules out any contraindications.
2.  Application of a special anti-freeze membrane to protect the skin from extreme cold.
3.  Placement of the applicator, which suctions the skin fold and immobilizes it in the cooling chamber.
4.  Initiation of controlled cooling leading to crystallization of fat cells (adipocytes).
5. Cooling phase usually lasting 45-70 minutes per body area.

It's worth noting that there is also-contrast cryolipolysis, which optimizes the effects of the treatment by alternately using cold and heat. The final cost of the procedure depends on the size of the treated area and the number of applicators used.

Cryolipolysis is a precise and effective technique for body contouring that eliminates localized excess fat tissue. This is fat that is resistant to diet and intense exercise. However, it is important to note that it is not a method for treating obesity.

This procedure is used on selected areas of the body where it effectively reduces fat tissue, including:

• abdomen,
• love handles (waist),
• thighs (inner and outer thighs),
• arms,
• buttocks,
• back (e.g. lower back and shoulder blades),
• so-called double chin.

Although cryolipolysis is a safe procedure, it is necessary to rule out certain contraindications for its performance. Absolute contraindications include:

• pregnancy,
• breastfeeding,
• active inflammatory skin conditions in the treated area,
• cancerous diseases,
• severe liver or kidney diseases,
• cryoglobulinemia,
• Raynaud's disease.

Immediately after the procedure, transient side effects may occur, which usually resolve on their own within a few days. These include:

• redness,
• swelling,
• minor bruising,
• numbness,
• tenderness.

Importantly, recovery is not required - the return to daily activities is immediate. However, it should be noted that paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), an enlargement of the treated area, can occur extremely rarely after the procedure.