CoolSculpting, also known as cryolipolysis, is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate fat cells in targeted areas of the body. This FDA-cleared procedure has gained significant popularity for its effectiveness in reducing visible fat bulges in areas such as the abdomen, thighs, flanks, bra fat, back fat, underneath the buttocks, and upper arms. Additionally, it can treat lax tissue in the submental area (under the chin), offering a comprehensive solution for body contouring without surgery.
How CoolSculpting Works
CoolSculpting works by applying a cooling applicator to the targeted area, which crystallises (freezes) the fat cells without harming the surrounding tissues. This process, known as cryolipolysis, causes fat cells to undergo apoptosis (cell death). Over time, the body naturally processes and removes these dead fat cells, resulting in a more sculpted and toned appearance. Each treatment session typically lasts between 35 minutes to an hour per area and requires no anaesthesia, needles, or incisions, making it a convenient option for many patients.
The concept behind CoolSculpting was inspired by the phenomenon known as “popsicle panniculitis,” where children developed dimples in their cheeks after eating popsicles.
The concept of cryolipolysis originated from observations of children who developed dimples in their cheeks after eating popsicles. Researchers realised that fat is more sensitive to cold than the overlying skin, leading to the development of this innovative fat reduction technology.
CoolSculpting was developed and marketed by Zeltiq Aesthetics and was introduced initially in the United States in 2010. Since then, it has become a widely adopted procedure for reducing stubborn fat pockets that do not respond well to diet and exercise.
Benefits and Effectiveness
CoolSculpting offers several benefits that make it an attractive option for those looking to improve their body contours without undergoing surgery. One of its primary advantages is its non-invasive nature. As a non-surgical procedure, CoolSculpting involves minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. This convenience makes it an appealing choice for individuals with busy lifestyles who want to avoid the extended recovery periods associated with surgical procedures.
Another significant benefit of CoolSculpting is its ability to achieve permanent fat cell reduction. Once the fat cells are destroyed and removed from the body, they do not regenerate. This ensures lasting results, provided that patients maintain a healthy lifestyle. By eliminating the targeted fat cells, CoolSculpting helps patients achieve their desired body contours and maintain their results over time.
Some clinics offer DualSculpting, which uses two CoolSculpting machines simultaneously to treat different areas of the body. This approach halves the treatment time and allows patients to achieve their desired results faster.
Additionally, CoolSculpting is effective in targeting and reducing stubborn fat pockets that are resistant to diet and exercise. Many individuals struggle with localized fat deposits that do not respond to traditional weight loss methods. CoolSculpting offers a solution for these problem areas by specifically targeting and reducing the fat cells in those regions, leading to a more sculpted and toned appearance.
Research indicates that CoolSculpting can achieve a fat reduction of up to 25% in the treated area. Improvements are typically reported by 86% of patients, with visible results emerging within three weeks. The most dramatic changes occur over a period of two to three months as the body continues to eliminate the dead fat cells.
Are There Risks?
While CoolSculpting is generally safe, it can cause side effects such as temporary redness, swelling, bruising, numbness, and discomfort in the treated area, which usually resolve within days to weeks. Rarely, patients might experience paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where treated fat cells enlarge instead of diminishing, potentially requiring further treatments like liposuction to correct.
CoolSculpting is not a weight loss solution and is most effective for individuals who are close to their ideal weight but have stubborn fat pockets. Patients need to have a sufficient amount of fat in the targeted area for the applicator to grip and treat effectively.
Comparison with Alternatives
CoolSculpting is one of several non-invasive body contouring treatments available. Other popular alternatives include:
- SculpSure: Utilises laser technology to heat and destroy fat cells. This treatment is typically used on the abdomen and flanks and is known for its relatively painless procedure.
- Vanquish: Employs radiofrequency energy to reduce fat. It heats fat cells without damaging the skin or surrounding tissues and is often used to reduce abdominal circumference.
- Kybella: An injectable treatment specifically designed to reduce fat under the chin using deoxycholic acid. It involves multiple small injections over a 20-minute period.
Best UK & London Clinics Offering CoolSculpting
Several reputable clinics in the UK offer CoolSculpting treatments, ensuring that patients receive high-quality care from experienced professionals. Some notable clinics include:
- Artistry Clinic: Located in the City of London, Artistry Clinic is known for its advanced aesthetic treatments, and specialisation in CoolSculpting.
- Cosmetic Skin Clinic – Located in Buckinghamshire and London, the Cosmetic Skin Clinic is renowned for its CoolSculpting expertise.
- Beyond MediSpa: Located in Edinburgh, Beyond MediSpa offers CoolSculpting among its body contouring services.
- The Body Clinic – Based in Solihull, The Body Clinic offers a range of body contouring treatments including CoolSculpting.
- Define Clinic – With locations in Beaconsfield and Harley Street, London, Define Clinic offers CoolSculpting alongside other aesthetic treatments.
As Cool As They Come
Thanks to advancements in aesthetic medicine, CoolSculpting has become a highly effective and popular solution for reducing stubborn fat without surgery. Understanding the benefits, risks, and alternatives can help individuals make informed decisions about their body contouring options.
While CoolSculpting effectively reduces fat, it does not tighten the skin. Patients with significant skin laxity may need additional treatments, such as a tummy tuck or thigh lift, to achieve the desired contour.
