Body Treatments 2 min read
Non-invasive body contouring: fat freezing explained
How cryolipolysis works, which areas it can treat, what a session involves and who it suits.
What is cryolipolysis?
Cryolipolysis, usually called fat freezing, is a non-invasive body contouring treatment that uses controlled cooling to target stubborn pockets of fat. It can reduce the fat in a treated area by up to 25%, although results vary from person to person.
How fat freezing works
Applicators cool the treatment area in a controlled way. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold than the tissue around them, so they undergo apoptosis (cell death), while the skin, nerves and other tissue are left largely unaffected. Over the next 2–4 months, your body gradually clears the treated fat cells.
Treatment areas
- Abdomen and waist
- Flanks (“love handles”)
- Thighs
- Upper arms
- Chin and neck
- Back and bra-line fat
What to expect
Each session typically takes 35–60 minutes per area. The first few minutes can feel mildly uncomfortable while the area cools and goes numb. Most people go straight back to their normal activities afterwards. Results start to show after 6–12 weeks, as your body clears the treated fat cells.
Who it suits
Fat freezing works best if you’re close to your ideal weight but have pockets of fat that haven’t responded to diet and exercise. It isn’t a weight-loss treatment; it’s a way of reshaping specific areas.