What is cryolipolysis ?
Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive medical slimming technique that reduces localised fat deposits through the controlled action of cold.
The gradual reduction in fat tissue thickness is 30% to 40%.
Its principle relies on fat cells being sensitive to low temperatures, unlike the surrounding tissues, which are preserved.
This treatment targets resistant bulges to slim the figure gradually and naturally, without surgery or social downtime. The skin, muscles and nerves are not damaged during the procedure.
Cryolipolysis is not a weight-loss solution and does not replace a balanced diet or regular physical activity. It is primarily intended for patients with localised fat areas that are difficult to eliminate despite a healthy lifestyle.
If you wish to slim through cold, regain a harmonious figure and eliminate stubborn fat deposits, cryolipolysis is an appropriate option.
How does
cryolipolysis work ?
This technique of fat freezing is based on a physical principle discovered by American researchers : fat cells exposed to intense cold are destroyed.
Adipocytes (or fat cells) are more sensitive to cold than other cells.
This exposure causes apoptosis, or slow, programmed cell death. This is why the result is not immediate, but visible three months after the session.
Studies have shown that, for this process to be effective, the session must last one hour and the device must carry CE marking (mandatory) and maintain a temperature of at least -5°C at 300mb pressure.
Body areas that can be treated with cryolipolysis
The body areas usually treated with cryolipolysis are :
- The abdomen.
- The “love handles”.
- The thighs.
- The knees.
- The “saddlebags”.
- The area beneath the buttocks (banana roll)
- The hips.
- The chin (double chin).
- Bra bulges.
Which areas are treated with
cryolipolysis work ?
- Abdominal cryolipolysis : ideal for eliminating stubborn fat deposits on the abdomen, cryolipolysis sculpts and slims this area. The abdomen becomes flatter and more toned.
- Thigh cryolipolysis : used to treat localised thigh fat, this method helps reduce thigh volume, smooth the skin and improve the overall silhouette.
- Saddlebag cryolipolysis : this technique specifically targets fat accumulated on the hips and outer thighs, known as saddlebags. The figure becomes more harmonious.
- Knee cryolipolysis : cryolipolysis can also reduce fat deposits around the knees. This area, often difficult to treat despite exercise, becomes slimmer and better defined.
- Cryolipolysis beneath the buttocks : cryolipolysis effectively treats fat deposits beneath the buttocks, often called “banana rolls”. Removing this fat bulge improves the transition between the buttocks and thighs.
- Double chin cryolipolysis : this technique is ideal for people seeking to eliminate excess fat beneath the chin. The result is a more defined profile.
- Love handle cryolipolysis : by destroying fat deposits on the flanks, cryolipolysis reduces love handles, improving the waistline and creating a slimmer silhouette.
Am I a good candidate for cryolipolysis ?
The best candidates for cryolipolysis are healthy adults with localised fat deposits, a normal weight or slight overweight and fairly firm skin, who wish to reduce these unattractive bulges without surgery. Weight should be stable and these bulges resistant to exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
If a patient is significantly overweight or their skin is very thin or very loose, cryolipolysis is not the most appropriate treatment.
During the initial consultation, Dr Romano checks that the areas the patient wishes to treat are suitable indications for cryolipolysis.
What happens during a cryolipolysis session ?
The preliminary medical consultation aims to select suitable candidates, determine the number of sessions required and rule out medical contraindications.
During the consultation, Dr Romano checks :
- That the patient is a good candidate, meaning their skin will be able to retract.
- That the indication is appropriate. Some areas (the knees and arms, for example) respond less well to treatment. Bulges that are too small, with a skinfold of less than 2 cm, cannot be treated.
After photographs are taken, the patient lies on the examination couch. The treatment area is protected with a wipe, and a bell-shaped applicator selectively draws in the fat bulge while preserving surrounding tissues.
These applicators gradually cool the fat tissue, causing it to crystallise and be destroyed. The fat cells are then naturally eliminated through the lymphatic system, reducing measurements and improving the skin's appearance
Both sides, right and left, are treated simultaneously. Treatment lasts one hour. During this time, patients can read, listen to music or rest. This aesthetic medicine procedure is painless, although a pulling or pinching sensation may be felt.
At the end of the session, the applicator is removed and the area is massaged to relieve congestion.
How long should you wait between cryolipolysis sessions ?
It is recommended to wait approximately 6 to 8 weeks between cryolipolysis sessions on the same area. This allows the body to gradually eliminate fat cells and helps prevent side effects. Dr Romano will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your aesthetic goals.
Precautions for cryolipolysis
Precautions before a cryolipolysis session
After the session, it is recommended to :
- Avoid alcohol and overly large meals on the day of treatment.
- Limit heat exposure in the days before treatment (sauna, steam room, sun).
- Tell the doctor about any anticoagulant medication or ongoing medical treatment.
Precautions after a cryolipolysis session
After the session, a few precautions are recommended :
- Stay well hydrated (on average 8 to 10 glasses of water daily).
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle : a full night's sleep, a varied and balanced diet and daily physical activity (at least 30 minutes of walking per day).
- Avoid alcohol and coffee during the lymphatic drainage period.
- Use lymphatic drainage treatments, draining creams or anti-cellulite creams alongside cryolipolysis.
Contraindications to
cryolipolysis
Cryolipolysis cannot be performed in certain situations :
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Cryoglobulinaemia.
- Cold urticaria.
- Certain neurological disorders.
- A wound or infection in the treatment area.
- Raynaud's syndrome.
- Paroxysmal cold haemoglobinaemia.
What are the side effects
of cryolipolysis ?
Cryolipolysis is well tolerated. Side effects are usually mild and temporary (disappearing after 3 to 5 days) :
- Redness or small bruises after the session.
- Temporary numbness of the treated area.
- Swelling or a feeling of firmness in the area for a few days.
- Temporary hypoesthesia (reduced sensation) or mild hyperaesthesia (increased sensitivity).
Treatment leaves no scars and no general anaesthesia is used.
Cryolipolysis is safe for the body; this technique is simple, quick and effective. No social downtime is needed after treatment, allowing an immediate return to daily activities.
How many cryolipolysis sessions are needed ?
In many cases, a single cryolipolysis session visibly improves the figure. Depending on the size of the fat deposit and the desired outcome, additional sessions may be proposed.
The protocol is personalised during the medical consultation according to the treated area, the patient's body shape and the desired result.
The number of sessions needed depends on the patient's aesthetic goals and the amount of fat to treat. Several sessions may be recommended for certain body areas to achieve optimal results :
- Localised areas : 1 to 2 sessions.
- Thicker areas : up to 3 sessions.
What are the results of cryolipolysis ?
Cryolipolysis before / after
Results are not immediately visible because the body gradually eliminates the destroyed fat cells through natural pathways. A few weeks after the session, fat stored on the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, back or hips is reduced by 30%. Results are optimal three to four months after treatment, with a noticeable reduction in fat bulges.
Depending on the size of the fat deposit, one to three sessions are required.
Can the results of a cryolipolysis session be optimised ?
Yes, you can optimise your cryolipolysis results by following a few recommendations before and after treatment.
Before treatment : try to maintain a stable weight and avoid alcohol and foods high in sugar and saturated fat.
After treatment : stay well hydrated, exercise regularly and follow a balanced diet to support elimination of the destroyed fat cells.
Is cryolipolysis
dangerous for your health ?
Apart from rare, limited side effects, cryolipolysis is not dangerous for your health when performed by a doctor.
Only doctors can purchase reliable medical-grade devices. Cold can cause burns and necrosis; unfortunately, this is common with devices of dubious origin used by non-doctors.
The doctor knows the contraindications and performs a medical examination to ensure the patient can receive treatment.
Does fat return after
cryolipolysis ?
Cryolipolysis reduces localised fat deposits. Fat cells are crystallised and then naturally eliminated by the body in the weeks following treatment. Once eliminated, these cells do not return, meaning the treated fat does not reform in the treated area.
However, cryolipolysis does not prevent new fat cells from forming elsewhere in the body, or even in the treated area if a healthy lifestyle is not maintained. To optimise and maintain cryolipolysis results, a balanced diet and regular physical activity are recommended.
In summary, fat eliminated through cryolipolysis does not return, but a healthy lifestyle is essential to avoid weight gain and the storage of new fat cells.
How much does a cryolipolysis session cost ?
Dr Valéria Romano welcomes you to her practice in Geneva. After an initial appointment during which she listens to your wishes and examines the areas to treat, a quotation is provided. The price of cryolipolysis depends on the type of applicator used and the number of sessions needed to achieve the desired results.
The price of a cryolipolysis session varies according to several factors, including the treated area, the number of applicators required and individual treatment specifics. In Geneva, a session generally starts from 500 CHF. This price corresponds to a standard area treated with one applicator on each side, making two applicators in total. Depending on the goals established during the medical consultation, several sessions may be recommended to optimise results.
In Geneva, prices in a medical practice may differ from those in other settings (beauty salons or non-medical facilities) because of equipment quality, medical supervision and the rigour of follow-up care.
Cryolipolysis or liposuction : which should you choose ?
What is the difference between cryolipolysis and liposuction ?
Cryolipolysis and liposuction are two techniques for eliminating fat deposits, but differ considerably in procedure, recovery and results.
Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive method using cold to crystallise and destroy fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. It is ideal for people wishing to reduce localised fat deposits without surgery. No recovery time is needed.
Liposuction is an invasive surgical procedure that directly suctions fat deposits from beneath the skin. Although it can provide faster results and treat larger fat volumes, liposuction requires general anaesthesia and a recovery period, and carries all surgical risks such as infection and scarring.
The choice between cryolipolysis and liposuction depends on the amount of fat to remove, the patient's aesthetic goals and their preference for a non-invasive or surgical approach.
Both techniques permanently eliminate fat cells (unless significant weight is regained).
Cryolipolysis reviews
Reviews of cryolipolysis are generally very positive. Many patients report satisfaction with the reduction in fat bulges. They particularly appreciate its non-invasive nature, treating problem areas without surgery or a recovery period. Most patients notice a visible reduction in fat deposits after a few weeks, with optimal results at three months. However, effects can vary depending on the treated area and individual sensitivity. Some patients report temporary side effects such as redness, bruising or increased sensitivity. Overall, cryolipolysis is valued for its effectiveness and simplicity, although results may depend on individual factors and several sessions may sometimes be needed to achieve the desired aesthetic goals.
Is cryolipolysis effective for me ?
In medicine, it is important to understand that no treatment, including cryolipolysis, offers an absolute guarantee of results. However, when the indication is appropriate, treatment is performed by a doctor and the device is recognised for its effectiveness, patient satisfaction rates are very high.
Patient satisfaction after cryolipolysis
90% satisfaction : the vast majority of patients (90%) report being satisfied or very satisfied with the results after one or more cryolipolysis sessions.
10% of patients are dissatisfied. Why does this minority not achieve the expected results ?
- Unmet expectations : some patients hoped for a greater reduction in volume
- No visible change : in a few cases, no noticeable result is observed.
- Variable individual response : every body responds differently to treatment. Some fat bulges may be more resistant to cold than others.
Frequently asked questions about cryolipolysis
How long does a cryolipolysis session last ?
A cryolipolysis session generally lasts 1 hour, or 45 minutes for the double chin.
The time required varies with the size of applicator used and sometimes the characteristics of the patient's skin.
After the session, a massage lasting a few minutes is performed to prevent inflammation of the cooled fat tissue.
What are the advantages of cryolipolysis over other slimming methods ?
This is a non-surgical, non-invasive method for eliminating localised fat deposits. Unlike liposuction, it requires no recovery time and reduces fat bulges gradually and naturally.
Do I need to stop exercising after cryolipolysis ?
There is no need to stop exercising after a cryolipolysis session. Regular physical activity can help accelerate elimination of fat cells destroyed during treatment. Continue your usual exercise routine unless the doctor advises otherwise for a specific reason. However, avoid extreme physical activity or contact sports during the first 48 hours after treatment.
Does cryolipolysis treat the skin ?
No, cryolipolysis does not treat the skin. It therefore has no direct effect on cellulite or skin laxity. However, reducing fat cells softens the appearance of cellulite and makes skin look firmer and smoother.
Does cryolipolysis treat cellulite ?
Cryolipolysis was designed to reduce localised fat deposits rather than treat cellulite.
Cellulite is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, water retention and the structure of subcutaneous connective tissue. Reducing a fat deposit naturally improves cellulite but specific treatments, Onda Coolwaves and radiofrequency, exist for this aesthetic concern.
Can cryolipolysis be performed by a beauty therapist ?
Cryolipolysis is a medical technique that must be performed by a doctor rather than a beauty therapist.
Only trained doctors can assess whether you are a good candidate and ensure your safety throughout the procedure.
This procedure can cause skin burns, skin necrosis, bowel loop necrosis (a bowel loop being drawn through a hernia into the applicator) and sensory disturbances (nerve damage).
Does cryolipolysis cause weight loss ?
How many kilos can you lose with cryolipolysis ?
Cryolipolysis effectively reduces localised fat deposits and slims the figure, but it is not a weight-loss method.
Fat cells exposed to cold crystallise and are gradually eliminated by the body. This reduces the volume of the treated fat bulge, but the total number of fat cells lost is generally insufficient to produce weight loss
Does cryolipolysis hurt ?
Cryolipolysis is not painful.
What age is suitable for cryolipolysis ?
Cryolipolysis is indicated for healthy adults aged 18 and over. There is no upper age limit provided there are no medical contraindications. A preliminary consultation with an experienced doctor is needed to adapt treatment to age and health if necessary.
Does cryolipolysis leave marks ?
Cryolipolysis leaves no scars or permanent marks on the skin. Side effects such as redness, swelling or bruising are temporary and disappear within a few days to a few weeks.
What diet should I follow after cryolipolysis ?
After cryolipolysis, a balanced diet and regular physical activity are recommended to optimise and maintain results.
There is no specific diet to follow; simply eat a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats, and limit sugar and saturated fat.
When does cryolipolysis not work ?
Cryolipolysis may be less effective in people with very large fat deposits or diffuse fat. This technique is not a weight-loss solution and works only on localised fat deposits. A consultation with a doctor can determine whether you are a good candidate.
When are cryolipolysis results visible ?
Cryolipolysis results begin to appear 3 to 4 weeks after the session and are optimal after 2 to 3 months. Every patient is different, so the speed at which results appear varies.
What exercise can you do after cryolipolysis ?
After cryolipolysis, resuming light to moderate activities such as walking or yoga is recommended. It is preferable to avoid strenuous exercise for a few days to allow the body to recover. However, intense physical activity is not contraindicated.
Which is more effective, LPG or cryolipolysis ?
The choice between LPG (Endermologie) and cryolipolysis depends on the goals. Cryolipolysis is more effective for reducing localised fat deposits, while LPG is ideal for improving skin quality, reducing cellulite and stimulating circulation.
What are the limitations of cryolipolysis ?
Cryolipolysis is not suitable for general weight loss, cellulite treatment or skin tightening.
There are contraindications.
A healthy lifestyle is fundamental to maintaining results.
Which cryolipolysis treatment is best ?
There are three medical-grade devices on the market : CoolSculpting®Cristal and Zimmer cryolipolysis.
- These devices carry CE marking.
- These devices are reliable : if a problem occurs, the device stops, preventing burns.
- These devices meet effectiveness criteria : they maintain a temperature of at least -5°C at 300mb pressure.
- These devices maintain a constant temperature, meaning at least -5°C.
Is cryolipolysis really effective ?
Cryolipolysis effectively eliminates localised fat bulges non-invasively, slims the figure and addresses cellulite. This technique reshapes curves, improves skin firmness and restores a harmonious figure and flat abdomen without surgery.
Cryolipolysis specifically targets fat cells without damaging surrounding tissue, offering a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. A single session can effectively treat unattractive bulges and reshape certain body areas.
How should I massage after cryolipolysis ?
After cryolipolysis, gentle massage of the treated area is recommended to prevent inflammation. Use light circular movements for a few minutes daily for five days. This massage is not mandatory because your doctor performs it at the end of the session.
How does fat leave the body after cryolipolysis ?
After cryolipolysis, crystallised fat cells are gradually eliminated by the lymphatic system through a natural metabolic process.
Does abdominal cryolipolysis hurt ?
No, abdominal cryolipolysis is generally well tolerated. During the session, patients can read, work on their laptop or watch a film.
Can cryolipolysis replace a tummy tuck ?
No, cryolipolysis cannot replace a tummy tuck (or liposuction). Cryolipolysis reduces small fat deposits.
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and often fat from the abdomen.
Articles about cryolipolysis
- Is cryolipolysis an alternative to liposuction ?
- Does cryolipolysis work well ?
- How can I tell whether cryolipolysis is effective ?
- What BMI is suitable for cryolipolysis ?
- What diet should I follow after cryolipolysis ?
- How can I optimise cryolipolysis results ?
- How does fat leave the body after cryolipolysis ?
- Can cryolipolysis be performed at home with consumer devices ?
- Does cryolipolysis leave marks ?
- What are the risks of burns or skin injuries with cryolipolysis ?
- Which body areas can be treated with cryolipolysis ?
- Who is authorised to perform cryolipolysis ?
- Cryolipolysis in Geneva : reviews
- How much does a cryolipolysis session cost ?
- What signs indicate a complication after cryolipolysis ?
- When does cryolipolysis fail to work ?
- Is one cryolipolysis session enough ?
- How many cryolipolysis sessions : everything you need to know for optimal results
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