In a 1970 study, it was found that when children sucked on ice popsicles, the fat cells in their cheeks died. The doctors then capitalised on the discovery that fat is more temperature-sensitive than your skin and came up with the machine that could help get rid of fat—cryolipolysis.

 

The fat-freezing treatment was later on approved by the FDA in 2010 and most recently, it is also found out to be effective in tackling problem areas that are more difficult to alter through natural means such as diet and exercise—the double chin, bra bulge, and love handles, for instance.

 

Sounds too good to be true? Keep on reading to learn more.

 

 

How Does Cryo Fat Freeze Work?

Cryolipolysis, also called cryo fat freeze in Singapore, is a body contouring treatment that uses low temperatures to break down fat. On a physiological level, it works by exposing fat cells to extremely cold temperatures, crystallising them until they eventually die.

 

Being more susceptible to the cold, these fat cells can be destroyed without damaging the overlying skin. When these cells die, they are eventually released into the lymphatic system and disposed of naturally through metabolism.

 

 

What to Expect During the Treatment?

In a cryo fat freeze treatment, a probing device is used to work on crystallising fat cells. You may feel tugging and cooling sensations that could be mildly discomforting at first, but this will resolve within minutes when the treated area becomes numb.

 

Each session will take about an hour, during the time which you can relax, watch TV, use your phone, or read a magazine. The treatment may have to be repeated at least once more for optimal results.

 

 

Who Is It For?

Most aesthetic clinics in Singapore emphasises that cryo fat freeze is a treatment for anyone who is looking for mild improvements—those who have small amounts of fat that are typically resistant to diet and exercise.

 

In studies, the procedure is found to reduce 18-25% of an area over the course of 2-3 months—the period at which the fat cells die and are eventually picked up by your immune system to eradicate from your body.

 

 

Is it a Weight-Loss Solution?

While it’s a permanent fat reduction technology, there is no absolute evidence to suggest that cryolipolysis is a solution for weight loss or has positive health benefits. At best, you get slight changes in your appearance—losing what’s spilling over your pants, your bra, or in the arms.

 

If there’s anything that science is consistent about, it’s that successful weight loss involves adopting significant lifestyle changes such as exercising and eating a balanced diet. You can do as much fat freezing treatments but if you don’t change your lifestyle, then your body will not change at all.

 

 

What are the Potential Side Effects?

Because cryolipolysis is non-invasive, the risks and side effects, comparatively speaking, are quite low. It also boasts no recovery time, which means you can drive yourself home afterwards and resume your daily activities.

 

But, while it is the case, the safest way to proceed with the treatment is to consult with your licensed aesthetic doctor in Singapore, discuss your concerns, and work together to identify the areas you wish to target.

 

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Dr Zhang YiJun