Why CoolSculpting Works: The Science Behind Cryolipolysis®

SAN DIEGO, April 24, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- CoolSculpting has made a big impact on cosmetic medicine since it was initially FDA cleared in 2010, because it targets one of the most troublesome issues for many people—bulges of fat that don't respond to diet or exercise. It is completely non-surgical and non-invasive, and reduces problem areas through a pioneering technology called Cryolipolysis®.

"We have many clients who are at an ideal weight, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy diet, yet are bothered by spot deposits of fat that won't disappear, despite all their efforts," says Lauren Amico, PA-C, MMS, director of the Laser and Skincare Clinic at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre (LJCSC). "CoolSculpting offers them a safe, non-invasive way to address these worrisome areas without harming the surrounding tissues."

How CoolSculpting Works

A proprietary technology called Cryolipolysis® is the secret behind the success of CoolSculpting. Researchers at the teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School discovered that fat cells could be targeted with extreme cold to induce lipolysis, the breaking down of fat cells. The temperature at which the cooling takes place is the key to the technology, because fat cells are more sensitive to cold than surrounding tissue; under tightly controlled conditions, fat cells can be frozen while other tissue, including surface skin, is left unharmed. The frozen fat cells die and are gradually eliminated by the body's immune system.

This process is why CoolSculpting is effective:

• It protects other tissues with targeted application. Because CoolSculpting can specifically target fat cells while surrounding tissues are left unaffected, it is an advancement over other methods of fat reduction that use intense heat, focused ultrasound, or chemical injections. This fundamental difference is important because it virtually eliminates any risk of skin, nerves, or muscles being damaged during the treatment.
• It results in a permanent reduction of fat cells. CoolSculpting treatment permanently removes fat cells because of the body's genetic makeup. Every person is born with a certain number of fat cells; once the cells are removed from the body, they do not return. This principle is also an important part of why CoolSculpting is effective at reducing fat bulges.

Comparisons with Liposuction

Though CoolSculpting can produce body sculpting results that are in some ways similar to liposuction surgery, CoolSculpting can only be used on selected parts of the body. It is FDA cleared for use on the flanks and stomach; in contrast, liposuction can be used on virtually every part of the body. CoolSculpting treatment takes only an hour per treatment area, with virtually no downtime, and optimal results are seen several months after treatment. It is designed for modest fat bulges; liposuction may be preferable for those who have fat deposits in areas CoolSculpting can't reach, or patients who need more dramatic results. Although liposuction can be used to make more specific changes in body contour, it is an invasive procedure with a moderate recovery period. A board certified plastic surgeon can help someone identify which treatment is best suited for his or her needs and aesthetic goals.

"Our patients are thrilled with their results from CoolSculpting," says Amico, "and we're pleased to offer them a non-surgical approach backed by solid science and technological innovation."

About La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre: LJCSC is located in the Scripps/XIMED Medical Building on the Scripps Memorial Hospital Campus, at 9850 Genessee Avenue, Suite 130, in La Jolla, CA. Reach them by phone at 858-452-1981.

Media Contact: Marie Olesen, La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre (http://www.ljcsc.com) or 858-452-1981.

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SOURCE La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre