Cryolipolysis

History: Cryolipolysis was first observed in children that regularly sucked on cold ice cream popsicles. It was noted in a journal that they developed dimple-like appearances and was attributed to the fact that fat cells freeze and die at a lower temperature than the rest of the tissues, so fat cells were eliminated without damage to any surrounding tissue. Popularity: Cryolipolysis became popular after FDA approval in recent years. The word fat-freezing and coolsculpting were used to describe the treatment. Featured on Dr. Oz show on television and celebrities such as Princess Kate Middleton and Kim Kardasian mentioning it as a tool to lose the belly fat after pregnancy brought much popularity to the procedure. Research: Cryolipolysis has been FDA approved for medical use in weight loss. Independent scientific research has proven 20-23% loss in fat cells in the area of treatment which translates to 1-2 inches. Technology: Cryolipolysis is a non-surgical (non-invasive) method. It functions by suctioning a part of the body into a cup and surrounds it with ice-cold water for about 60 minutes. This cause the death of the fat cells that will be discarded with their interior content over 2-3 months out of the body. Procedure: The actual treatment is very pleasant. A thin membrane is placed on the skin to prevent frosting of the skin and create better suctioning. The procedure is painless. Slight discomfort should be expected in the first 5 minutes as the skin gets colder, after the first 5 minutes the skin should get completely numb and no feeling is felt in the remainder of the session. Before Care: Lots of water should be consumed the day before, the day of, and the day after the treatment to help the body flush out the dead fat cells. After Care: Redness and numbness in the area will be experienced immediately after treatment. This should go away in the next 2 hours and be back to normal. Slight bruising can be seen in some patients that should resolve naturally in one or two weeks after the treatment. Side Effects: No serious side effects are reported with this non-surgical, non-invasive treatment under proper care. Frequency of treatment: Cryolipolysis is recommended no more than 3 times per area of the body in the patients entire life for now, until more long-term data and research are gathered to determine future recommendations. Contraindications: Pregnancy, cardiopathology, Vascular disease, pacemakers, therombosis, thrombophlebitis, anticoagulant medications, transplants, large metal prosthese, diabetes, and epilipsy. The procedure is not recommended for those that are over 35 pounds overweight as this may cause unsightly pocket holes in the body. Expectations: Result of 1-2 inches fat loss is to be expected. No weight loss technique is ever successful without dieting. New fat cells can be produced with an unhealthy diet. Many patients see the financial commitment of getting this treatment as motivation to make a lifestyle change. It is important to diet healthy, not just cut down calories, to provide the necessary nutrients, reduce fat, and increase muscle mass. Cost: cost varies in different markets. The average cost is around $750 per session. This can be significantly more or less based on location and type of office.