With beauty technology constantly evolving, it is critical to pay attention to what can be problematic or lead to serious side effects. When it comes to freezing fat through CoolSculpting, consideration for its efficacy and potential side effects should be weighed. The technology has recently made headlines.
According to a recent investigation by The New York Times that involved analyzing “internal documents, lawsuits, medical studies, and interviews,” it appears that the potential risk of a side effect resulting in unwanted fat growth — which can only be treated through surgery — may have been previously underestimated.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is the brand name for cryolipolysis (CLL), a fat-freezing method to reduce fat thickness in treated areas, explains Basel Sharaf, M.D., practice chair for the Center for Aesthetic Medicine & Surgery.
“CLL is a noninvasive body contouring approach based on the hypothesis that fat cells (adipocytes) are sensitive to cold temperature. Through controlled cooling, selective destruction of fat cells can be achieved due to cold-induced apoptosis (fat cell death). Initially, there is an inflammatory response followed by a reduction in fat cells in the treated area over three months,” This technology promised the reduction of unwanted fatty deposits in certain areas of the body without having surgery, hence its appeal to the public.
How long does a CoolSculpting treatment take and what areas can be treated?
CoolSculpting treatment can take 35 minutes to 1 hour per treatment area. If more treatment areas are desired, then it may take several hours. The treatments are usually repeated within 1 to 3 months, and it involves an average 2 to 3 treatments per area. Additionally, up to 4 treatment areas — such as the abdomen and flanks — can be done at the same time.
In addition to the abdomen, the FDA has cleared CLL for the treatment of fat under the chin, under the jawline, thighs, upper arm, sides of the abdomen, underneath the buttocks and on the back.
Does CoolSculpting really work?
According to recent studies, the effectiveness of the treatment can be quite variable, with reported efficacy between a 10.3% and 25.5% reduction in fat thickness in treated areas.
CLL may not be nearly as effective or predictable as liposuction, which is still considered the gold standard for targeting areas of fat excess under the skin. Liposuction uses a suction cannula to remove fat from specific areas of the body. The process of shaping the body with liposuction is called body contouring or liposculpture.
