What’s harder to let go of than the last slice of pizza? If you’ve tried to get rid of stubborn fat, you know exactly what I mean.
You’ve tried workouts, meal plans, and maybe even crossed your fingers—but it’s still there. Don’t worry, stubborn fat isn’t forever. Cryolipolysis is one procedure to address it—but is it the best way?
If you have heard about cryolipolysis, you probably have lots of questions. Is it the same as coolsculpting? Does cryolipolysis really work, or is liposuction better?
These are the questions I’ll answer right here. I’ll walk you through what cryolipolysis is, how it works, and why it has become so popular. I’ll also explain why, in some cases, it may not deliver the results you’re hoping for.
And don’t worry—I’ll share the proven body contouring procedures that can help you say goodbye to stubborn fat for good!
So let’s start with the basics: what exactly is cryolipolysis, AKA coolsculpting?
What Is Cryolipolysis?
Cryolipolysis is freezing stubborn fat cells from specific parts of your body. It’s a non-invasive fat reduction treatment designed to target specific pockets of fat and freeze them out.
Literally, the word ‘Cryolipolysis’ means ‘cold fat breakdown.’ The term combines ‘cryo,’ for cold, and ‘lipolysis,’ which refers to the process of breaking down fat.
Cryo, sounds a bit like something out of a sci-fi movie, right?
Actually, the concept dates back to that specific golden era of cinema. Researchers in the 1970s discovered cryolipolysis as a non-invasive alternative for fat reduction—no surgery, no general anesthesia required.
But it took many years for cryolipolysis to become a popular body contouring procedure. In 2009, CoolSculpting received its first FDA clearance for specific areas of the body where stubborn fat tends to develop, like your lower tummy, love handles, or inner thighs.
So, the idea behind cryolipolysis is simple: freeze the fat cells, and let your body do the rest.
What’s the difference between cryolipolysis and CoolSculpting? None, to tell the truth. Cryolipolysis is the technical term for freezing fat cells, while CoolSculpting is a specific machine marketed by Allergan that performs this procedure.
So, medically speaking, cryolipolysis and coolsculpting are the same thing: freezing fat cells to let the body naturally get rid of them.
Can cryolipolysis remove any stubborn fat? Does this fat-freezing treatment deliver the benefits it promises?
Let’s explain how this procedure actually works and why it might not always deliver the results you’re hoping for.
How Does Cryolipolysis Work?
Cryolipolysis works by using cold to do one very specific job: freeze and destroy fat cells. These cells can’t survive extreme temperatures, and once they’re frozen, your body naturally clears them out – if everything goes right.
Now, let’s talk about the machine. In the latest models I’ve seen, the top half of the machine acts as a computer, managing all the settings and controls, while the lower half is a high-powered cooler. The cold travels from the machine, through a specially designed pad, and straight to the treatment area.
The pad is where the magic happens—well, not “magic,” but technology. Each applicator is customized for different types of treatments, depending on the area and tissue type.
And how cold does cryolipolysis get? -11 degrees Celsius. That’s the temperature needed to kill those fat cells.
Does cryolipolysis hurt? If done right, not at all. You might feel a slight burning sensation in the area, but that quickly turns into numbness as the cold takes effect.
So, while cryolipolysis might sound futuristic, it’s really just science doing its thing. Let’s move on to the benefits of this fat-freezing treatment and see if it lives up to the hype.
Benefits of Cryolipolysis
In recent years, cryolipolysis has become one of the most talked-about body sculpting procedures out there. Thanks to clever marketing and the promise of a non-invasive treatment, it’s no surprise.
A way to lose fat without surgery? Of course, I understand how appealing that sounds.
The biggest benefit of cryolipolysis is that it doesn’t involve incisions, anesthesia, or recovery time. For many, this is a huge selling point.
And let’s not forget the safety factor. Since the treatment only affects fat cells, surrounding tissues and skin are left unharmed. Combine that with a relatively straightforward process, and it’s easy to see why so many people give it a try.
To sum up: the benefits of cryolipolysis are no surgery, no downtime, and the fact that it’s considered a low-risk procedure.
But does this mean cryolipolysis is as effective as they say? Let’s keep things realistic and explore whether its benefits and results are for real.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
As simple as cryolipolysis seems, it’s not a “set it and forget it” procedure. It should only be performed by qualified experts. Why? Because when done improperly, it can lead to side effects like paradoxical adipose hyperplasia.
What is PAH? PAH stands for Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia, and it’s the opposite of what cryolipolysis is supposed to do. Instead of eliminating fat cells, this condition causes the treated fat cells to enlarge and harden, creating a firm, raised mass beneath the skin.
According to research published in the NIH, PAH is a potential side effect of coolsculpting. Does this mean everyone who tries cryolipolysis is at risk? Absolutely not. But if you’re considering it, you should be aware of the possibility.
Beyond PAH, there are other limitations to keep in mind. Cryolipolysis is often marketed as a quick and easy solution, but the reality isn’t so straightforward. For many patients, it takes several sessions to achieve noticeable results and up to 6 months for your body to fully eliminate the treated fat cells.
So, while cryolipolysis might seem like an instant fix, the truth is it’s not a one-and-done procedure. Like any body sculpting treatment, it comes with its pros and cons.
Before diving into the best way to achieve real, lasting results for stubborn fat, let’s focus on what aligns with your goals and expectations.
Who Is Cryolipolysis For?
Who are good candidates for cryolipolysis? This procedure is best suited for healthy individuals with localized fat pockets—those small, stubborn areas that don’t seem to respond to diet or exercise.
Those people looking to lose large amounts of weight or those with a high BMI, are not going to find the results they want with cryolipolysis.
This is my point of view, as your go-to cosmetic surgeon in Scottsdale, but I am certainly not alone here. All serious cryolipolysis and coolsculpting professionals say that not everyone is suitable for this fat freezing treatment.
If you’re hoping for a significant transformation or faster, more predictable results, cryolipolysis might not be the ideal choice.
So, now comes the big question:
Cryolipolysis vs. Liposuction: Which One is Better?
Not so long ago, a patient of mine asked, “Is liposuction or coolsculpting better?” It’s a question I get a lot, so I decided to answer it on social media to share my professional perspective.
You can watch my take on Instagram right here. And if you have more questions about this, I’d be more than happy to answer them there too!
From my years of professional experience and everything I’ve seen, I can confidently say that when comparing cryolipolysis and liposuction, liposuction is the better solution for stubborn fat. Here’s why:
First, precision and results. Liposuction offers targeted and precise fat removal, delivering immediate, noticeable results in just one session. While there’s some recovery time involved, the payoff is undeniable—clear, predictable outcomes you can count on.
Cryolipolysis, on the other hand, often requires multiple treatments, and the results aren’t always consistent. For those seeking real change, this can be frustrating.
Second, cryolipolysis has the risk of PAH. As I explained earlier, PAH is just the opposite of getting rid of stubborn fat.
Here’s the kicker: the only way to treat PAH is through liposuction. In fact, I’ve successfully treated patients with PAH using two of my most effective body contouring techniques: traditional liposuction and Vaser liposuction.
So, whether you’re suffering from PAH or simply looking for a real alternative to coolsculpting, you know who to call.
Now that we’ve gone through all this, it brings me to the ultimate question:
How to Really Get Rid of Stubborn Fat
If you’re serious about getting rid of stubborn fat, the best place to start is with options that actually deliver results. At True Contour Medical, we offer the Best Cosmetic Surgery Packages featuring advanced body sculpting treatments for prices you don’t want to miss out.
Cryolipolysis might sound appealing at first, but as we’ve explained, it can cost more than you expect. Multiple sessions add up, and the results can be inconsistent.
For real, lasting change, liposuction offers immediate, noticeable results in just one session
What’s the best way to find out what works for you? During a one-on-one session, we’ll review your specific case and determine the best procedure for you.
Ready to create the body you want within the body you have? Book a consultation with me, Dr. George Armendariz, your trusted aesthetic surgeon and regenerative medicine specialist in Scottsdale.
