Where does the fat go after a cool sculpting treatment?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from our clients about CoolSculpting Fat Freezing.
The concept of freezing fat to destroy it has been floating around for many years after doctors noticed that children were losing fat inside their cheeks from sucking on Popsicles. They discovered deep-seated fat cells are naturally more vulnerable to the effects of cold than surrounding tissue so therefore, fat could be frozen without hurting the skin, nerves, and muscle in the treatment area. This process was named Cryolipolysis®.
Fat freezing has one similarity to liposuction in that the fat is gone for good. But that is where it ends. With CoolSculpting there are no medications, no needles or cannulas, the whole treatment is done on the outside of the body while you sit and read a book.
How does the treatment work?
To perform the CoolSculpting procedure, the technician attaches an applicator to the targeted area to extract energy from (or cool) the underlying fat tissue. The vacuum applicator draws the tissue into the applicator cup and gently holds it between two cooling panels, extracting heat from it. (This is why squishy fat is a must.)
Sensors embedded in the applicator monitor the skin during the procedure to ensure a consistent and uniform procedure. The sensors are linked to the control console to continuously monitor and adjust cooling throughout the CoolSculpting procedure and provide continuous feedback to the technician. A pager automatically alerts the technician of issues that need attention and notifies him or her when the CoolSculpting procedure is complete.
What happens to the fat?
Through the process of freezing, the fat cells become inflamed and your body sends out …well let’s just call them “Pacman” type cells that gradually digest the affected fat cells. Lipids from the fat cells are slowly released and transported by the lymphatic system to be processed and eliminated, much like that of fat from food.
Over the following few months, the fat cells are eliminated and the fat layer decreases.
How much of the fat is affected?
Approximately 20-30% of the fat in the treatment area is eliminated.
What about cholesterol levels?
You would wonder if your cholesterol levels would rise through this process or perhaps the liver might be over-taxed. However, through testing, they discovered that because the lipid clearance process is gradual, there is no harmful change in blood lipids or liver function.
I’ve heard that there is numbness after the treatment. How long will that last?
All normal sensation will return in about 3-4 weeks. Biopsies showed no long-term damage to nerve fiber structure, sensation or skin.
CoolSculpting is the world’s #1 rated non-invasive fat reduction procedure and has been officially approved by the FDA for the treatment of submental fat.
Highly effective and safe. What are you waiting for?
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