Cryolipolysis Fat Sculpting

The concept of fat freezing was observed in 1970 when Epstein et al. noticed fat necrosis in the cheek of an infant who had been sucking on a popsicle. They discovered that fat tissue is more susceptible to being injured by cold temperatures than other tissue types. The technology for targeted fat freezing was created by Manstein et al. in 2007, and they also coined the term “cryolipolysis” (“cryo” = “freezing”, “lipo” = “fat”, “lysis” = “breaking down of cell membrane”). 

Fat sculpting with cryolipolysis has rapidly gained popularity since its discovery. It is a safe and effective treatment that is approved in Canada, the United States, Europe, and more than 70 other countries, with millions of treatments being performed worldwide every year. The technology has also improved over the years, and Chill N Sculpt has the latest machine. 

Cryolipolysis is designed to permanently eliminate stubborn bulges of fat that resist conventional diet and exercise. Even though fat accumulates in different areas for different people, cryolipolysis works effectively for all genders. Ideal candidates possess noticeable bulges in specific regions, and are within 5 pounds of their ideal weight.

This procedure is not intended for weight loss or obesity treatment, unlike gastric bypass surgery. However, it offers an effective non-surgical alternative to liposuction. 

If you are unsure whether cryolipolysis is for you, please book a free consultation with us.

This innovative technology precisely targets fat cells beneath the skin, freezing them to a temperature that triggers natural cell death without harming the surrounding tissues. Over time, the body naturally metabolizes and eliminates the treated fat cells, leaving you with a more sculpted physique. 

The reason why cryolipolysis is able to achieve permanent results is because it reduces the number of fat calls, instead of merely shrinking them. When we gain or lose weight, fat cells expand or shrink according to how many fat globules are stored within them. Cryolipolysis bypasses this mechanism by eliminating the fat cells entirely.

Consultation and Baseline Measurements: 

Our technician will answer your questions and discuss your goals to determine whether cryolipolysis or another treatment is most suitable for you. They will take your oxygen saturation, vitals, body metrics, fat percentage using ultrasound, and baseline photos.

Outline Target Area(s): 

Once you're deemed a candidate, your targeted treatment areas will be identified and outlined with a marker.

Anti-Freeze Membrane Application:

A protective sheet of gel will be applied to protect your skin from freezing.

Applicator Application: 

The applicator administers controlled suction and cooling. Initial minutes of cooling may elicit pressure and intense cold sensations. Once the area has reached the appropriate temperature (based on depth of fat tissue), the suction is reduced and the temperature is maintained for 30-50 minutes.

Massage: 

After the applicator is removed, a brief massage enhances the treatment's effectiveness by breaking up dead fat cells to be cleared out by your lymphatic system.

No Downtime: 

You can resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure. Depending on the possible side effects, some clients choose to avoid strenuous activity. 

During the procedure, you will experience a suction sensation and intense cold, but these discomforts subside quickly as the area becomes numb. Initially, this may feel like stinging, tingling, aching, or cramping. Most clients find the treatment experience relatively comfortable and even use the time to relax, read, use their phone, or watch something on the TV.

Upon applicator removal, the treated area(s) might seem stiff. After the technician massages the treated area(s), sensation will return, and you may experience mild nausea or dizziness, which usually subsides within minutes as the body warms up.

The first session, including consultation, is approximately 2 hours for one treated area. Please allocate approximately 1.5 hours for subsequent sessions, and an additional hour for each extra application. You are free to take breaks between applications. 

The treatment frequency is 1 session per month for 3 months, with maintenance sessions every 6 months or so. Results can be seen as early as 4 weeks, and will continue for up to 4 months following the latest session as the fat is gradually eliminated. For best results, consider working with a healthcare professional who can help you adhere to a healthy lifestyle plan. 

Cryolipolysis can effectively treat various areas of the body, including:

• Abdomen
• Flanks (“love handles” or “muffin top”)
• Thighs (inner and outer)
• Under the chin and jawline (“submental fullness” or “double chin”)
• Upper arms
• Back fat
• Bra fat
• Underneath the buttocks (“banana roll”)

Unlike other treatments that may require incisions or anaesthesia, cryolipolysis is entirely non-surgical, allowing you to resume your regular activities immediately after the session. Additionally, this procedure ensures a gradual reduction of fat cells, which avoids drastic changes in appearance. 

Before Your Session:

Medication Avoidance: 

Refrain from taking blood-thinning medications or supplements like aspirin, fish oil, or St. John's Wort at least one week before your session to minimize chances of bruising. Consult your doctor before making any changes. Additionally, smoking can slow the recovery process and delay results. If possible, refrain from smoking for a week before and after treatments.

Skin Care: 

Avoid activities that could potentially damage the skin in the treatment area to prevent postponing the session. Stay away from tanning to reduce skin sensitivity during the treatment. Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support your body for optimal results.

On the Day of Your Session:

Attire: 

Wear loose, comfortable clothing and casual undergarments suitable for relevant comparison photos. You might want to bring a change of clothes in case the anti-freeze gel gets on your clothes. If this happens, it’s possible your clothes may stain from the gel. 

For the ultrasound body fat percentage scan, we will need access to:

Men: pectoral area, abdomen, and mid-thigh

Women: triceps, abdomen, and hips

Pre-Session Nourishment: 

Have a light meal earlier in the day to sustain your energy throughout the session. Also drink plenty of water before and after the treatment to facilitate the elimination of fat. Bathroom breaks may be taken between applications. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and other substances that may dehydrate you. 

Entertainment: 

Bring something to pass the time during the session like a phone, book, or tablet. 

You are free to resume normal activities after your treatments. Some clients prefer to wear loose clothing after their treatments, whereas others prefer tighter clothing to minimize movement in the treated areas. To maximize recovery and minimize undesired side effects:

• Drink at least 3 litres of water per day to facilitate fat excretion;
• Maintain a consistent exercise routine;
• Avoid overeating;
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for at least 3-4 days;
• Avoid taking a hot bath for 24 hours;
• Do not soak in hot springs or use saunas for 1 week;
• Do not vigorously massage the treatment area for 1 week;
• Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol as these substances can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.

In the 3-4 months following your cryolipolysis treatments, you can expect to see gradual improvements in the treated areas. Additional sessions may be recommended to achieve your desired results. Maintenance sessions are recommended every 6-12 months to ensure progress and optimal results. To maintain your enhanced physique, consider seeing a healthcare professional who can help you adhere to a healthy diet and lifestyle plan.

Cryolipolysis is generally safe for most individuals, but there are certain contraindications:

• Cryoglobulinemia, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, cold agglutinin disease, or intolerance to cold therapies (such as cold urticaria or Raynaud’s disease);
• Under the age of 18;
• Unrealistic expectations and/or Body Dysmorphic Disorder;
• Impaired peripheral circulation in the treatment area(s);
• Bleeding disorders or concomitant use of blood thinners;
• Diabetes;
• Neuropathic disorders, such as diabetic neuropathy or post-herpetic neuralgia;
• Impaired skin sensation;
• Open or infected wounds;
• Severe varicose veins;
• Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or rashes;
• Recent surgery or scar tissue in the treatment area;
• A hernia or history or hernia in or adjacent to the treatment area;
• Cancer;
• Pregnancy or lactation;
• Any implanted devices such as cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, heart rate regulators, etc.;
• Metal foreign bodies (including metal teeth), or artificial bones;
• Severe hypertension, cardiovascular, or cerebrovascular disease;
• Any major health problems such as liver disease or renal failure;
• Under the influence of alcohol or any other drugs;
• Feeling ill or high fever;
• Any known sensitivity to fructose, glycerin, isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol), or propylene glycol;
• Obesity (Body Mass Index over 30).

Cryolipolysis is a low-risk procedure, but temporary adverse effects may include:

• Redness or bruising in the treatment area;
• Diminished sensation, numbness, or tingling in the treatment area;
• Swelling in the treatment area;
• Persistent pain in the treatment area;
• Vasovagal symptoms in the minutes following treatment.

It is rare for adverse effects to last longer than 14 days. Reported complications almost always resolve without any intervention. 

The most serious complication from cryolipolysis is “paradoxical adipose hyperplasia” (PAH), which has been reported in less than 1% of clients worldwide. This condition is defined as “a visibly enlarged tissue volume within the treated area which may develop 2 to 5 months after treatment”. According to the available data, the following factors may increase the risk of developing PAH:

• Biological men
• Hispanic ethnicity
• Treatment with a large applicator in the lower abdominal area
• Higher suction settings
• Unknown genetic susceptibility (based on a case of twins)

Therefore, at Chill N Sculpt, we have adjusted our protocols to minimize this risk for our clients. We encourage you to check out the research section of our website so that you can make an informed decision about proceeding with this treatment. If you have any questions, we are happy to discuss your concerns during a free consultation.