Cryolipolysis or CoolSculpting is a non-surgical procedure to freeze fat cells and remove excess weight for a slimmer physique. The CoolSculpting procedure, now available at SheerSculpt in Philadelphia is considered an alternative to liposuction, became popular in the United States after it received FDA approval in 2010 and endorsements from celebrities like Debra Messing. CoolSculpting is meant for patients who seek moderate changes to their thigh, abdomen, back or upper arm. It has been praised by patients who have flattened their stomach, removed love handles and minimized triceps fat.
The procedure originates from a scientific observation at Harvard University that children who ate popsicles had dimples in their cheeks. The cold temperatures, scientists found, can freeze small pockets of fat cells resulting in the loss of fat underneath the skin without any impact to the appearance of the exterior skin. By targeting small areas, patients can eliminate excess fat and slim down. Many patients report that CoolSculpting has given them greater confidence and helped them feel more comfortable in their clothes. The procedure is considered a popular leisure activity in Europe where it is approved in many salons and gyms.
Candidates for the procedure are required to go through a consultation to evaluate their skin and goals before being approved for treatment. Once approved, a clinician will use cooling panels to suction the excess fat like a vacuum by bringing it to the optimal temperature right around or below freezing, which is the point at which fat cells die. Patients are awake for this procedure and can read or nap during the process. Patients report feeling a cooling sensation followed by a sense of numbness with minimal levels of pain. The procedure takes between 35 and 75 minutes per surface area. Though it sometimes results in external bruising, patients can return to work immediately following the procedure.
Results may take between four and six weeks to be recognizable as the body naturally adapts and eliminates fat cells. Fat loss will reach its peak about eight weeks after the operation and skin smooths out around 12 weeks after the operation. Physicians advise patients to plan a treatment about three months ahead of a vacation or event. Though patients sometimes require multiple treatments to obtain optimal results, this non-invasive, fat reduction service results in long-term fat reductions. CoolSculpting Philadelphia eliminates between 20 and 25 percent of fat cells in the desired area and destroyed fat cells will not return once they have been eliminated. Due to their growing popularity, CoolSculpting services are offered at several medical spas and cosmetic facilities around the country.