Fat Freezing: Cryolipolysis and Non-Surgical Fat Reduction

Menhance Team
Jan 21
6 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

Are you frustrated with persistent fat that remains despite your extensive exercise and healthy diet? You are not alone. Many individuals face challenges with localized fat deposits on areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or under the chin.

Historically, invasive procedures like liposuction were the primary solutions. However, the advent of fat freezing (Cryolipolysis) has transformed the aesthetic industry by providing a non-invasive method to eliminate fat cells.

Understanding Fat Freezing (Cryolipolysis)

Fat freezing, medically referred to as Cryolipolysis, is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that employs controlled cooling to remove fat. This innovative technology is widely known under the brand name CoolSwiss, which has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its effectiveness and minimal downtime. During the procedure, a specialized device is placed on the targeted area of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks. This device uses vacuum suction to draw the tissue into the cooling panels, where it is subjected to precise, controlled cooling. The temperature is lowered to a point that causes the fat cells to crystallize and gradually die off, while the skin and other surrounding tissues remain unharmed.

Typically, a single session of CoolSwiss lasts about 35 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being treated. However, optimal results are often achieved after multiple sessions, spaced several weeks apart. Patients usually begin to see noticeable changes in their body shape within a few weeks, with the most significant results appearing after about two to three months as the body continues to metabolize the dead fat cells.

The Science Behind the Chill

The procedure relies on a fundamental biological principle: fat cells exhibit greater sensitivity to cold compared to skin, nerve, or muscle cells. When subjected to meticulously controlled temperatures, fat cells undergo a process known as apoptosis (natural cell death).

Following the freezing and subsequent death of these fat cells, the body’s lymphatic system naturally processes and eliminates them as waste. Due to the precise regulation of temperature, the surrounding tissue remains entirely unaffected.

Understanding the Fat Freezing Procedure

Familiarizing yourself with the procedure's steps can alleviate any apprehensions before your initial session.

1. Initial Consultation

Every successful process begins with a detailed plan. During the initial consultation, which is a critical first step in the fat freezing procedure, our specialist will evaluate your areas of concern and determine if you have sufficient subcutaneous fat to qualify as a suitable candidate. Our doctor will assess your body composition and may take photographs of the target areas for reference. This personalized approach ensures that the treatment plan is tailored specifically to your needs, enhancing the likelihood of achieving your desired results.

2. Preparation

If you decide to proceed with treatment, a clear gel pad is placed on the targeted area. This pad serves as a protective barrier for your skin against the cold, while allowing the temperature to penetrate the underlying fat. The gel pad not only protects the skin but also helps to improve the efficacy of the cooling process by ensuring even distribution of temperature.

3. Application and Suction

Once you are comfortable and ready, our team positions the applicator, a vacuum-like device, onto the designated area. You will experience a firm pulling sensation as the device draws the fat bulge into the cooling panels. This suction is essential for ensuring that the targeted fat cells are effectively cooled to the appropriate temperature for optimal fat freezing. The applicator is designed to conform to the contours of your body, allowing for precise treatment of various areas. Throughout this step, our team will monitor your comfort level, making adjustments as needed to ensure a positive experience.

4. Cooling Phase

In the initial 5–10 minutes of the cooling phase, you may feel an intense cold, often described as stinging or aching. However, as the area becomes numb, the discomfort typically subsides. Most patients use the remaining 35–60 minutes to read, watch a movie, or even take a nap, turning the treatment into a relaxing experience rather than a stressful one. The cooling process is designed to specifically target fat cells, causing them to undergo a natural cell death known as apoptosis, while the surrounding tissues remain entirely unaffected. This selective cooling is what makes fat freezing a safe and effective method for body contouring.

5. Post-Treatment Massage

After the applicator is removed, the treated area will resemble a "frozen stick of butter," a visual indication of the treatment's impact. Our team will conduct a massage to break up the frozen fat cells, a crucial step that can enhance results by up to 68%. This massage helps to stimulate circulation and promote the natural elimination of the destroyed fat cells from your body. Following the massage, you may experience some redness and swelling in the treated area, but these effects are typically temporary and resolve within a few hours. The practitioner will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure optimal recovery and results.

Fat Freezing in Bangkok & Phuket, Thailand

Targeted Areas: Where Can You Freeze Fat?

The FDA has approved fat freezing for several specific areas where stubborn fat commonly accumulates:

Abdomen: A prevalent concern for both men and women.
Double Chin: A common area of localized fat affecting jawline definition.
Flanks: Commonly known as "love handles" or "muffin tops."
Thighs: Includes both inner and outer thighs, sometimes called saddlebags.
Back Fat: Targets the bulges that appear around the bra line.
Upper Arms: Aims to reduce the "bat wing" appearance.
Banana Roll: The small pocket of fat located directly under the buttocks.

Ideal Candidate Criteria

It is crucial to understand that fat freezing is not intended for weight loss. Rather, it serves as a body-contouring procedure.

Suitable Candidates Include:

Those with "pinchable" fat deposits that are resistant to exercise.
Individuals who maintain realistic expectations, understanding that results are gradual rather than immediate.
Those committed to a healthy lifestyle to sustain their results.

Results and Timeline: What to Expect

Patience is essential with Cryolipolysis, as the body requires time to naturally metabolize the eliminated fat cells. Immediate changes in appearance should not be anticipated upon leaving the clinic.

Timeline	Developments
Week 1-2	Initial swelling and tenderness decrease.
Week 3-4	The body begins flushing out dead fat cells. You might notice clothes feeling slightly looser.
Week 8-12	Peak results are typically observed, with most patients experiencing a 20% to 30% reduction in the treated fat layer.

Before & After photos of Cryolipolysis

Before & After Testimonial of Cryolipolysis

As shown in the before-and-after image above, the combination of fat freezing and a weight loss pen can produce noticeable improvements in both body contour and overall fat reduction. Fat freezing targets stubborn, localized fat deposits, while the weight loss pen supports ongoing weight management by reducing appetite and preventing further fat accumulation. Together, this dual approach enhances visible results and helps maintain them over time.

Side Effects and Risks

Although fat freezing is generally deemed much safer compared to surgical procedures, it may still result in temporary side effects.

Common Side Effects:

Redness and Swelling: Typically resolves within a few hours to days.
Numbness: The treated area may experience a "numb" sensation for several weeks.
Bruising: Caused by the vacuum suction applied during the procedure.
Tingling / Zapping: Occurs as the nerves begin to "awaken" following the treatment.

Fat Freezing vs. Liposuction: Which is Better?

Feature	Fat Freezing (Cryolipolysis)	Liposuction (Surgery)
Invasiveness	Non-invasive (no needles/cuts)	Invasive (incisions/cannula)
Anesthesia	None required	Local or General
Downtime	Zero (back to work same day)	1–2 weeks
Pain Level	Mild discomfort (numbness)	Significant post-op soreness
Fat Removal	20–30% per session	Up to 80–90% of targeted fat
Cost	Affordable	Higher due to surgical fees

Maximizing Your Results

To optimize your investment, consider the following recommendations:

Stay Hydrated: Water aids the lymphatic system in more effectively flushing out the destroyed fat cells.
Wear Compression Garments: Some individuals find that light compression helps reduce swelling during the first week.
Keep Moving: Light exercise, such as walking, enhances circulation.
Maintain Your Weight: Gaining weight can cause the remaining fat cells in the treated area to expand, potentially obscuring your results.
Consider Multiple Sessions: Although one session yields results, many choose to undergo 2 or 3 treatments to achieve their desired outcome, typically spaced 1 month apart per location.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is fat freezing permanent?

Yes. Once the fat cells are frozen and eliminated, they are permanently removed. However, it is still possible to gain weight in the remaining fat cells, so maintaining a healthy diet is crucial.

Does fat freezing hurt?

Initially, the procedure involves intense cold and suction, which may cause discomfort. After approximately 10 minutes, the area becomes numb, and minimal sensation is experienced until the post-treatment massage.