Does Nonsurgical Fat Reduction Really Work?
Removing fat without dieting, working out, or surgery seems like it might just be too good to be true. You are not alone if you are skeptical about non-surgical fat reduction techniques such as CoolSculpting. But there is actually quite a bit of real scientific evidence that shows the effectiveness of these treatment options.
If you have considered CoolSculpting but are not sure results are really possible without surgery, you may want to hear more about whether or not the claims are real. Various clinical studies have been done to measure the results of CoolSculpting. Let’s dive into some of the research around the technology behind CoolSculpting.
But First, What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is also known as cryolipolysis. Because fat cells freeze and die at a higher temperature than surrounding cells, we are able to utilize a carefully calibrated device to apply controlled cooling to a specific area of the body that will target the fat cells in that location. Fat cells that are damaged by this process eventually die off and are reabsorbed and removed by the body.
This entire process takes about 30-45 minutes of treatment time, although full results will begin to appear several weeks later and take a few months to appear fully. Within several months of treatment, there is a visible reduction of that fat in the treatment area.
CoolSculpting Research
The claim is visible fat reduction, but what does the research say? Well, it is pretty promising. Keep in mind that every patient is unique, and their results will vary based on individual factors. That being said, several studies show clinically significant, measurable results in a very large majority of patients.
What the Studies Say
A May 2015 study that compiled and reviewed the results of 19 separate cryolipolysis studies found encouraging results. It concluded that the treatment had an average reduction in caliper measurements ranging from 28.5% to 14.67%. Calipers are an external tool commonly used to manually measure body fat.
The same study also found an average reduction in ultrasound detection of fat ranging from 10.3% to 25.5%. The study also noted a high patient satisfaction rate in all of the studies that were reviewed, along with a rare instance of mostly mild complications.
Another study from June 2015 reviewed 19 studies covering 1445 patients in total. Only 12 reported any side effects, all of which were minor. Results showed optimal fat reduction was reached at a mean of 3.83 months post-treatment and a mean fat reduction percentage of 19.55%.
A more recent study done in 2020 on 231 patients utilized more modern cryolipolysis techniques. It found a 19.2% average reduction with caliper measurements and a 22.8% reduction in fat seen on ultrasound.
Can I Get These CoolSculpting Results?
CoolSculpting is proven to offer measurable results in these and several other studies. The benefits don’t end there. With CoolScultpting, there is no downtime at all, and the treatment is considered quite safe, especially compared with liposuction surgery. Fat loss occurs over time, so it appears natural. Lastly, results are permanent as fat cells do not return, although new fat cells can be created by the body as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle.
Fat reduction will ultimately vary from person to person, but the vast majority of patients are satisfied with their results. In order to see ideal CoolSculpting results, it is important that you’re a good candidate for treatment. An experienced CoolSculpting provider can help you make this determination. Schedule a free consultation to learn whether CoolSculpting might be the right treatment for your fat reduction goals.
