What is Cryolipolysis?

Is cryolipolysis the same as CoolSculpting?

Have you heard of cryolipolysis before but are not quite sure what it is? While the word sounds like a mouthful, it’s actually simply the physical mechanism by which the non-invasive body contouring treatment CoolSculpting works.

Dr. Will Kirby, celebrity dermatologist and Chief Medical Officer of LaserAway, is here to explain the basics of cryolipolysis (aka CoolSculpting), including how to tell if you’re a candidate.

How does cryolipolysis work?

The term cryolipolysis literally means “to break down fat.” In the context of a CoolSculpting treatment, cold technology is used to break down unwanted fat. The fat is frozen and crystallized, similar to little icicles. A massage device and manual hand manipulation are used to break up the frozen fat cells. Your body naturally and permanently eliminates the crystallized fat within six to eight weeks. Cryolipolysis is simply the mechanism of action for CoolSculpting.

Who is the ideal candidate for CoolSculpting?

The ideal candidate for CoolSculpting is someone who is already at or close to their ideal weight and follows a healthy lifestyle (i.e. regular fitness routine and nutritious diet), but has “pinchable fat”—meaning fat you can pinch with your index finger and thumb. Those with larger or smaller pockets of fat that aren’t pinchable may not be good candidates for the treatment. If you’re not sure if you’re a candidate, ask for a free consultation at your nearest provider.

It’s important to note that CoolSculpting is not a weight loss mechanism. CoolSculpting sculpts the body through targeted fat reduction, which can deliver results that diet and exercise can’t (you can’t spot reduce fat through exercise).

Can CoolSculpting be used anywhere on the body?

CoolSculpting can be implemented anywhere on the body where you have unwanted fat. The most common areas are the love handles, abdomen, buttocks, and chin. Each CoolSculpting treatment permanently reduces fat cells by up to 25%. The amount of treatment sessions you’ll need depends on your specific goals and needs.

Want to learn more about CoolSculpting and other body contouring treatments? Check out LaserAway, the nation’s leading aesthetic dermatology provider.