Cryolipolysis

At some point during our teenage years, the number of fat cells in our bodies becomes fixed. Losing or gaining weight generally does not increase or decrease the number of fat cells. Instead, it changes the size of fat cells.

Years ago, scientists at Harvard University observed that some children who ate popsicles got dimples in their cheeks. The scientists—Dieter Manstein, MD and R. Rox Anderson, MD—realised that the popsicles were freezing and eliminating small pockets of fat cells.

The idea that cold can target fat cells without damaging the skin or surrounding tissue was the inspiration behind Cryolipolysis; treatments to freeze and eliminate stubborn body fat.

The Cryolipolysis procedure delivers precisely controlled application of cooling within the temperature range of +5 to -11 °C to gently and productively target the fat cells underneath the skin, without apparent damage to the overlying skin. Treated fat cells are crystallised (frozen) and gradually die. Over time, your body naturally processes and eliminates these dead cells, leaving a more sculpted appearance. Untreated areas will have no change in fat cell distribution.

The method has a low rate of complications and is deemed to be low-risk and effectual for fat reduction by about 20% at certain body sites.

Common Side effect include, transient local redness, bruising and numbness of the skin at the site of the treatment and are expected to subside. Typically sensory deficits will improve within a month. The effect on peripheral nerves has been investigated and has failed to show permanent detrimental results. There were no serious long-lasting side effects encountered during six months of follow-up. Contraindications to cryolipolysis include patients with cold-related conditions such as cryoglobulinaemia, cold urticaria and paroxysmal cold haemoglobinuria.

While the Cryolipolysis procedure will NOT help you lose weight, it can help you lose unwanted fat cells, producing a slimmer appearance.