Freeze the Fat

Cryolipolysis, or the freezing of fat, is not a new technology, but consumer desire for nonsurgical body contouring with little downtime has made fat reduction procedures significant in the esthetics industry. This procedure is intended to help clients address localized areas of fat that may be resistant to diet and exercise. This modality offers a nonsurgical way to target pockets of fat and may help improve the appearance of loose or sagging skin. 

What is Cryolipolysis?

Cryolipolysis is a noninvasive procedure that involves cooling body fat to break down fat cells. Also known as “fat freezing,” cryolipolysis reduces targeted body fat while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Since adipose (fat) tissue is more responsive to temperature changes than skin, the frozen fat cells break down and leave the skin unharmed.¹ Cryolipolysis is FDA-approved for the chin, arms, back, flanks, stomach, outer thighs, and inner thighs. 

 How Does Cryolipolysis Work?  

During a cryolipolysis treatment, an applicator of the appropriate size is placed on the skin and uses suction to draw the treatment area between cooling panels. The client will feel a cold sensation that gradually turns to a numbing sensation—like holding ice in your bare hands for an extended period. While the fat cells freeze and are destroyed, the surrounding skin is spared from injury. The applicator stays on the skin for up to one hour, and the results can take up to several months to see. 

What Results Can Clients Expect from Cryolipolysis? 

Cryolipolysis is designed for localized fat reduction and body contouring rather than overall weight loss. Results develop gradually as the body clears the targeted fat cells, and visible changes may take several weeks to months. Multiple treatments may be recommended depending on the treatment area and the client's goals. 

What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Cryolipolysis? Risks and complications associated with cryolipolysis are low, although some clients may experience asymmetry or irregularities in the surface and texture of the skin. 

Common temporary effects may include: 

• Redness in the treated area 
• Localized bruising 
• Temporary numbness or altered sensation 

These effects generally resolve over time. Rare complications can also occur, including paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, in which treated fat tissue increases rather than decreases. 

Cryolipolysis Considerations for Estheticians

Estheticians offering cryolipolysis should follow device-specific treatment protocols and understand applicable scope-of-practice requirements. Proper client screening, informed consent, treatment documentation, and realistic expectations are important components of professional cryolipolysis services. 

Liability Insurance for Advanced Esthetics Services 

Cryolipolysis is an advanced aesthetic modality, so practitioners should understand applicable scope-of-practice and insurance requirements before offering the service. ASCP members have access to optional coverage for advanced esthetics services. Learn more about current coverage and eligibility through ASCP.  

FAQs 

What is cryolipolysis? 

Cryolipolysis is a noninvasive body-contouring procedure that uses controlled cooling to target and reduce fat cells. 

Is cryolipolysis a weight-loss treatment? 

No. Cryolipolysis is designed for localized fat reduction and body contouring rather than overall weight loss. 

How long does it take to see cryolipolysis results? 

Results develop gradually, and visible changes may take several weeks to months as the body clears the targeted fat cells.

What are the side effects of cryolipolysis? 

Common temporary effects include redness, bruising, tenderness, numbness, and altered sensation in the treated area. 

Article by Maggie Staszcuk

Notes

1. American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), “Cryolipolysis,” accessed February 2020, www.asds. net/skin-experts/skin-treatments/cryolipolysis.
2. Emily Taylor, “How to Shrink, Shape and Elevate Your Jawline,” September 17, 2019, accessed February 2020, www.newbeauty.com/blog/dailybeauty/12888-how-toshrink-and-shape-your-jaw....
3. Emily Taylor, “How to Shrink, Shape and Elevate Your Jawline.”
4. American Society of Plastic Surgeons, “Nonsurgical Fat Reduction,” accessed February 2020, www.plasticsurgery.org/ cosmetic-procedures/nonsurgical-fat-reduction/cryolipolysis.