Fat freezing is known scientifically as Cryolipolysis. It is a scientifically proven method of treating localized pockets of stubborn fat (known as “spot reduction”).

What scientists have discovered over the last 2 decades is that our fat cells when exposed to very low temperature environments can be made to undergo a process of natural cell death (apoptosis). Fat cells in adults are normally unable to reduce in number, so starving and dieting only shrinks the size of each cell.

Fat freezing (cryolipolysis) is the medical technology that induces permanent death of the fat cells. Studies have shown that with each treatment of fat freezing (cryolipolysis), the fat layer reduces by 22% over the area of treatment over a period of 2 to 4 months. This corresponds to the amount of fat cells lost permanently over the treated area. Treatment can be repeated multiple times at 2 to 4 monthly intervals, with the results being cumulative.

Fat freezing (cryolipolysis) is performed with state-of-the-art devices. These devices used to be regulated as medical devices by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), meaning that only a medical doctor/medical clinic can perform fat freezing (crypolipolysis) treatments. But as of the amended HPA (medical devices) Act in 2018, it has been declassified as a medical device and reclassified as an aesthetic device, due to the excellent safety profile of fat freezing (cryolipolysis) devices. This means that fat freezing (cryolipolysis) can be performed by suitably trained therapists in a spa, and does not require a medical doctor/clinic to perform, as it is deemed to be a suitably safe device, like an aesthetic IPL.

The famous fat freezing (cryolipolysis) machine brands globally include Zeltiq Coolsculpt and the Clatuu Classys. Here at Yesskin Medispa, we use the Clatuu Classys, a medical grade aesthetic device formerly only available through medical clinics. This is a highly effective, proven and safe French device.

What happens to the fat after the fat cells die? The fats (lipids) get absorbed back into the lymphatic system and eventually get redistributed to other fat cells. It isn’t actually excreted from the body (there is no technology currently to excrete fat from fat cells out of the human body). Fat freezing (cryolipolysis) independently does not result in any change in body weight.

Which is why fat freezing (cryolipolysis) works best at targeting spots of stubborn fat in individuals who are not grossly overweight. For individuals who are obese, fat freezing (cryolipolysis) as a single aesthetic treatment modality may not be ideal, as it does not achieve large degree debulking of fat (only dieting and exercise with/without medication does that). However, it can still deliver very good results when combined with a successful weight loss program involving diet and exercise.