For centuries, people have believed that modifying diet and increasing physical activity are the most effective ways to lose weight. So when emerging methods such as fat freezing claim to be able to speed up the weight loss process by freezing and eliminating fat cells, it's entirely understandable that people are skeptical.
Because of this, many people have been asking the same question: Does the frozen fat treatment really work?
It is important to note that fat cryotherapy is not a panacea for weight loss, but there is data to support its applicability in specific populations. So read on to learn more about the exact effects of this treatment and determine if it's right for you and your weight loss goals.
First, let's explore how frozen fat therapy works.
There are a variety of fat cryotherapy treatments on the market, most of which use suction cup technology to specifically target stubborn fat in certain areas of the body. These suckers release cooling energy between +5°C and −5°C, penetrating the skin to the layer of fat cells. During this process, fat cells begin to crystallize due to low temperatures and gradually undergo apoptosis, a process in which cells die naturally.
As fat cells cool and crystallize, they are naturally excreted from your body over time, helping you build a slimmer body.
So, what exactly does fat cryotherapy achieve?
According to a systematic review published in the Journal of Aesthetic Surgery, the study, which analyzed 19 studies on frozen fat, also known as cryolysis, showed that the treatment was effective in reducing subcutaneous fat with high patient satisfaction and relatively few side effects.
Normally, after fat freezing treatment, the body will remove the frozen and broken down fat tissue within four to six months. Moreover, the treatment's effects are long-lasting.
How effective is fat freezing?
Although studies have shown that fat freezing can have positive results in most cases, it is important to recognize that the specific effects of this treatment may vary for each individual. In general, this treatment is most effective for people who are close to the ideal weight and have cellulite in some parts of the body that can be picked up by hand.
At the same time, an individual's lifestyle and other factors can also significantly affect the effectiveness of treatment. If patients continue to maintain unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle while receiving treatment, the effect of fat loss may be greatly reduced.
Therefore, fat freezing treatment should not be seen as a "magic bullet" that can replace healthy weight loss methods or address unhealthy lifestyles.
Who is not suitable for fat freezing treatment?
Fat freezing is not for everyone. The following people are generally advised to avoid this treatment or to always consult a healthcare professional before receiving treatment:
People with cold-triggered illnesses, such as Raynaud's disease and certain skin conditions, should avoid frozen fat treatment, as the low temperatures may exacerbate their condition.
People with active skin conditions (such as dermatitis, eczema, or open wounds in the treated area) are also not suitable for this treatment, as these skin problems may increase the risk of treatment or delay the healing process.
People with weakened immune systems or autoimmune diseases need to be extra cautious when considering frozen fat treatment, as their bodies may respond more sensitively to the treatment.
For patients with implanted medical devices (such as pacemakers), frozen fat therapy should be avoided in the area where the device is located to prevent the cooling process from interfering with the normal operation of the device.
