What is medical cryolipolysis?
Ten years ago, the idea of cryolipolysis was born from the observation that people subjected to extreme cold over long periods of time were losing some of their fatty tissue. Hence its principle: deep cooling of the fat beneath the skin. In concrete terms, the device used creates a vacuum in the area to be treated, which it then cools to below zero degrees. Within 45 minutes, this cooling causes apoptosis (cell death) of the fat cells concerned. These are then eliminated by the body's natural processes, over a period of 3 weeks to 2 months.
Slimming with cold
Cryolipolysis, also known as coolsculpting, is suitable for people with moderate, localized excess fat. The areas of the body on which this technique is effective are :
- Love handles
- Inside arms
- The belly
- Saddlebags and buttocks
- Thighs
- Knees
- Calves
- Ankles
The advantages of this aesthetic medicine method are numerous. It removes a large proportion of subcutaneous fat quickly, painlessly and sustainably, without the need for anesthesia.
Objectives of cryolipolysis
The aim of cryolipolysis is to remove localized excess fat that generally resists diet and exercise. It is equally suitable for men and women. In some cases, cryolipolysis can be recommended as a complement to liposuction.
This practice is particularly suitable for so-called moderate bulges, i.e. fat folds between 2 and 6 cm. During your initial consultation, your practitioner will examine and take the necessary measurements. He or she will then be able to tell you whether cryolipolysis is indicated or to suggest another option.
It's important to understand that cryolipolysis does not claim to be a weight-loss solution, nor does it aim to balance weight. It is not intended to combat obesity, nor is it a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. On the other hand, it is effective when you want to sculpt your figure in a precise and harmonious way.
Initially, you will be seen by a practitioner who will carry out a complete clinical examination of the areas you wish to treat. At the end of the appointment, he or she will give you a detailed estimate and explain the procedure. He will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Procedure for a cryolipolysis (coolsculpting) session
As cryolipolysis is not a surgical procedure, it does not require anesthesia or hospitalization. This cold destruction of fat is carried out in one-hour sessions, on an outpatient basis (you go in and out of the Clinique du Lac the same day). There's no need for you to lose your social life, and you can return to your normal activities.
Before starting the session, the practitioner applies a gel-impregnated cloth to protect the skin. He then places a handpiece on the targeted area, which sucks up the fat, then cools it. For the duration of the session (one hour), the patient can keep busy by reading or listening to music. At the end of the session, the handpiece is removed and the cooled area is massaged back to its normal appearance.