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Fat Freezing: Risks and Side Effects
Wonder what are the side effects and risks of fat freezing? The risk of fat-freezing is embedded in the process of the treatment, which means that the place that you go to for this fat reduction treatment may affect how risky the procedure is. Whereas, fat-freezing side effects occur after the treatment.
Let's dive deep into the potential long and short-term side effects of this non-invasive and nonsurgical fat reduction procedure.
But, in order to understand why there are some risks and side effects, we need to first understand how fat freezing works.
How Does Fat-Freezing Work?
Fat freezing treatment is a non-invasive fat removal technique that removes excess fat in a treated area. The science behind how fat freeze work is actually quite simple. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold temperatures than any other cells in the body. Extreme cold temperatures will cause fat cells death without harming the surrounding cells. A membrane is laid on the targeted areas of the body and a handheld device with a suction cup will be used to freeze the body fat. Accompanied by the cold temperature, a pulling sensation will be felt. The freezing temperature kills fat cells. The dead fat cells then get flushed out of your system in a standard natural process through your lymphatic system.
Risks Of Fat Freezing
Some fat-freezing machines used are unbranded and improperly produced. In such cases, there is a potential to cause harm to the skin of patients. The membrane placed in between the skin is an important component of the procedure. A good-quality membrane will protect the skin and muscles and facilitate more effective treatment results. In order to avoid these risks, visit an aesthetic clinic which prioritizes your safety and has trained professionals to help you through the procedure. These professionals will know how to properly use a machine and detect if the procedure is not right for you.
Common Short-Term Side Effects Of Fat Freezing
As fat freezing uses -8 degrees temperature to freeze your fats, it is common to experience a little bit of discomfort at the treated area right after the treatment. However, these side effects are mild and usually go away within a few weeks.
Common immediate side effects of Fat Freeze include:
- redness
- firmness
- pinching sensation
- minor swelling
- tenderness
- bruising
- stinging
- tingling
- numbness
- skin sensitivity
- mild to moderate pain
- muscle cramping
Rare Long-Term Side Effects
Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH)
Based on numerous studies, it is rare to suffer from long-term side effects of fat freezing, but it does exist. One of the possible long-term side effects is known as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH). Patients with PAH experience enlargement of fat tissue in the treatment site two to five months post-treatment. This condition is very rare and has an incidence rate of 0.0051%. It is more commonly observed among male patients. As of date, there are no conclusive reasons as to what causes PAH.
An unfortunate example of PAH would be that of Linda Evangelista, who suffered from it two months after her coolsculpting treatment.
The Case Of Linda Evangelista
In 2015, Linda Evangelista developed paradoxical adipose hyperplasia following her cryolipolysis treatment done on her body and chin area. Instead of achieving her desired results, this caused an increase in body and chin fats. With PAH, the increased fat cells in the treated area become firm over the next few months, leaving a defined mass. Because of this, the supermodel has filed a lawsuit against the company claiming that they left her “permanently deformed” which ruined her career.
As mentioned, the chances of developing PAH are extremely rare, but one should always observe their body and not ignore side effects that are prolonged or uncommon.
Is Fat Freezing Worth The Risk?
While fat freeze does have some risks and side effects, the chances of having long-term problems are extremely low. Short-term side effects are usually mild and only in the targeted area. This swelling or pain usually goes away within a few weeks after treatment. By comparing other body contouring options such as liposuction, fat freezing is a much safer and inexpensive option. It is definitely worth considering if you are looking to lose stubborn fat pockets.
At Kosme Aesthetics, we conduct over 800 treatments per month and are very experienced in guiding you through the best treatment for your needs. Unlike other aesthetic salons, we do not have packages to hard-sell you and want to give you 2 free sessions before you decide if you would like to continue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Fat Freezing Work?
Is Freezing Fat Worth It?
Is Fat Freezing Permanent?
What Is The Downside Of Fat Freezing?
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