Cryolipolysis Treatment
The benefits and risks of cryolipolysis treatment
"Cryolipolysis" is a term derived from three Greek words: "cryo" meaning cold, "lipo" referring to fat, and "lysis" meaning breaking down or dissolution. So, "cryolipolysis" essentially translates to "fat breakdown by freezing" or "cold-induced fat cell destruction." In the context of cosmetic procedures, cryolipolysis specifically refers to the process of using controlled cooling to target and eliminate fat cells in certain areas of the body.
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The terms 'cryolipolysis' and 'fat freezing' can be used interchangeably as they refer to the same exact treatment. Cryolipolysis treatment is best for reducing specific areas of stubborn fat, and shouldn't be considered a method for weight loss.
A simple overview on how cryolipolysis works
Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure designed to reduce localised fat deposits in certain areas of the body.
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Cryolipolysis targets specific areas of the body where stubborn fat tends to accumulate, such as the abdomen, thighs, or love handles.
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During the procedure, a specialized device is applied to the targeted area. This device uses controlled cooling technology to lower the temperature of the fat cells in the treatment area.
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Exposure to extreme cold temperatures triggers a natural biological response in the fat cells known as apoptosis, or programmed cell death. This process selectively targets and destroys fat cells while leaving surrounding tissues unharmed.
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Following the treatment, the body's immune system recognizes the damaged fat cells and begins to clear them away through the lymphatic system. Over time, the treated fat cells are metabolised and eliminated from the body as waste.
Following treatment
The results of cryolipolysis treatment are not immediate. Instead, the body gradually eliminates the destroyed fat cells over several weeks to months following the procedure. Clients typically begin to see noticeable improvements in the treated area within a few weeks, with optimal results becoming apparent after a few months. Six weeks following treatment further treatment can be done, as the majority of fat cells have been eliminated.
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One of the key advantages of cryolipolysis is its non-invasive nature. Unlike traditional liposuction or surgical fat removal procedures, cryolipolysis does not require incisions, anaesthesia, or downtime for recovery. Clients can typically resume their normal activities immediately after the treatment.
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Some aftercare advice is given following treatment. The advice is simple and straight-forward; drink plenty of water, massage the treated area regularly for approximately 2 weeks and either maintain or lose weight, as weight gain will reduce the overall results of treatment.
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Cryolipolysis is designed to provide long-term to permanent fat reduction results. Once the treated fat cells are eliminated from the body, they do not regenerate. However, it's important to note that maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper diet and exercise is essential for maintaining the results of the treatment over time.
The benefits of cryolipolysis treatment
Cryolipolysis treatment offers several benefits, which have contributed to its popularity as a non-invasive fat reduction procedure.
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Non-invasive procedure
Cryolipolysis does not involve surgery, incisions, or anaesthesia, making it a safer and less risky option compared to traditional liposuction or other surgical fat removal procedures. This means reduced risks of complications, minimal discomfort during and after the treatment, and no need for downtime or recovery period.
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Targeted fat reduction
Cryolipolysis allows for precise targeting of specific areas where stubborn fat deposits tend to accumulate, such as the abdomen, thighs, flanks, back, and double chin. This precision enables patients to achieve more contoured and sculpted body shapes in areas that may be resistant to diet and exercise.
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Natural-looking fat loss results
Because cryolipolysis gradually eliminates fat cells over time, the results appear natural and subtle. There's no sudden change in appearance, and the fat reduction occurs in harmony with the body's natural processes, allowing for a more gradual transformation.
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Minimal discomfort and low risk of side effects
While clients may experience some temporary sensations of cold, numbness, or mild discomfort during the procedure, cryolipolysis is generally well-tolerated. Side effects such as bruising, swelling, and redness are typically mild and temporary, resolving on their own within a few days to weeks.
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Long-term results
Once the targeted fat cells are destroyed and eliminated from the body, they do not regenerate. This means that the results of cryolipolysis treatment are long-lasting, provided that clients maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper diet and exercise. While individual results may vary, many patients experience significant and sustainable fat reduction in the treated areas.
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Convenience and accessibility
Cryolipolysis sessions are relatively short, lasting 45 minutes per treatment area, and multiple areas can be treated at once.. Because cryolipolysis is a non-invasive procedure, clients can usually resume their normal activities immediately after the treatment, making it a convenient option for individuals with busy lifestyles.
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Customizable treatment plans
Cryolipolysis can be customised to meet unique needs and goals. Multiple treatment sessions may be recommended to achieve optimal results, and the treatment can be tailored to address different areas of concern across the body.
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Overall, cryolipolysis offers a safe, effective, and non-surgical solution for reducing localised fat deposits and achieving a more contoured and sculpted appearance, with minimal discomfort and downtime.
Risks related to cryolipolysis
While cryolipolysis is considered safe and well-tolerated, like with any medical procedure, it carries certain risks and potential side effects.
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Temporary side effects
Following cryolipolysis treatment, clients may experience temporary side effects such as numbness, tingling, redness, bruising, swelling, or skin sensitivity in the treated area. These side effects typically resolve on their own within hours to days. However, for some these can last for a week to weeks following treatment.
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Pain or discomfort during treatment
While cryolipolysis is generally well-tolerated, some clients may experience discomfort or pain during the initial minutes of treatment, specifically during the initial suction and cooling phase when the applicators are first attached to the treatment area. This discomfort subsides relatively quickly.
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Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH)
In rare cases, cryolipolysis treatment may lead to a rare side effect called paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, where the treated area develops an unexpected increase in fat volume instead of fat reduction. This rare side effect is known to occur between 1 in 4,000 and 1 in 20,000 instances and no such occurrences have taken place with the equipment used at Fat Freezing Manchester.
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Inadequate results
While cryolipolysis can effectively reduce localised fat deposits in many patients, individual results may vary. Factors such as the thickness of the fat layer, skin elasticity, and overall health can influence the outcome of the treatment. In some cases, clients may not achieve the desired results with cryolipolysis alone and may require additional treatments to achieve their aesthetic goals.
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Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions or anatomical factors may increase the risk of complications associated with cryolipolysis treatment. Patients with conditions such as cryoglobulinemia, cold agglutinin disease, or Raynaud's phenomenon are not suitable candidates for cryolipolysis due to the potential for adverse reactions to cold exposure.
Cryolipolysis costs
Our cryolipolysis costs are highly competitive and are calculated by the amount of applicators used.
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Single applications:
1 applicator (body): £110
1 chin applicator: £90
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Package deals:
(multiple applicators in 1 session):
2 applicators: £175
3 applicators: £240
4 applicators: £295
6 applicators: £425
8 applicators: £510
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To secure your appointment a small £40 deposit is required at the time of booking.
Book cryolipolysis treatment
Book simply through our online booking system.
All cryolipolysis treatments are titled as "fat freezing" on the booking system. For help with understanding the exact amount of treatment you would like to book also read our page explaining what a fat freezing applicator is.