It's a new procedure, done by some plastic surgeons, to remove areas of stubborn body fat.
This procedure also is known by the name, CoolSculpting. These terms all refer to a single non-surgical procedure, in which a plastic surgeon uses a device that cools fat cells in a targeted area, causing the cells to be destroyed.
The procedure sometimes is sought out by patients who want targeted fat removal or body sculpting without undergoing anesthesia or a scalpel or laser. It was approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for fat removal in the fall of 2010.
A candidate for cryolipolysis typically is a person who is at a healthy weight and in otherwise good health, and has certain areas of body fat that have been unresponsive to diet and exercise. This could include a tummy "pooch" or love handles or pockets of excess fat on the thighs or buttocks, for example.
It's a good idea for anyone who's interested in getting the Zeltiq procedure to consult with a plastic surgeon who has experience performing cryolipolysis to confirm that they are a good candidate and to make sure their expectations are realistic. At an initial consultation, the plastic surgeon could examine the areas in question, answer questions about cryolipolysis and show before-and-after photos of patients who have had the procedure done.
The treatment takes at least an hour, and does not require anesthesia or cause pain -- though patients do report a pulling and cooling sensation in the area the machine is targeting.
Results are not visible immediately, but become visible in the weeks and months following the procedure.
According to cool sculpting treatment , a patient can expect to see results of between 20 and 40 percent reduction of body fat in the treated area. The company states that researchs shows an average result of 20 percent. If the patient is not happy with the initial fat reduction, a second treatment can be done a few months later, in some cases, for greater reduction.
Results are considered to be permanent, unless the patient gains additional weight. However, the fat that has been "zapped" by the process should not return.
Cryolipolysis is considered to be a relatively low-risk procedure, partly because it is not-surgical and does not involve anesthesia. However, it is important to remember that it is a fairly new procedure, although it has been approved by the FDA. While some patients are comfortable having a newer procedure, others might prefer to wait a while and gauge feedback from early patients. It's just a matter of personal preference.
Side effects could include swelling, bruising, redness, temporary numbness or not being satisfied with results. Here is one study with further information.
Cryolipolysis can be pretty pricey -- it can cost up to Rs, for a session for 2 hours to 3 hours depending on skin sensitiveness duration of treatment is fixed, according to some reports. If another session is desired a few months later, that could add another Rs, to the total bill.
Results vary on individuals, females avail results in shorter time with in 30 days,some males avail results 30 days to 60 days