9
Cryolipolysis differs from other fat removal procedures in
a
number of ways. For
example, liposuction suctions fat cells out of the body, often destroying them
first with fluid, ultrasound or laser energy. Lipodissolve accomplishes the same
thing with fat-melting injections. Zerona uses low-level laser energy to open
a
pore in the fat cell, evacuating its contents.
Cryolipolysis Procedure
-
What to Expect
The Cryolipolysis procedure is usually performed by
a
plastic surgeon or
dermatologist in his or her office and takes about one to three hours. The area to
be treated is marked and covered with
a
gel pad to protect the skin. The
physician then uses
a
hand-held vacuum applicator to gently draw the excess
skin and underlying fat between two cooling panels.
You
will feel
a
firm pulling
sensation and may feel mild cold in the treated area. This sensation will dissipate,
and the area will become numb (much as it would if an ice pack were applied).
The cooling process lasts for
a
predetermined amount of time. It must damage
the fat cells, turning fat within the cells from
a
liquid to
a
solid. The fat is
naturally flushed from your body in the ensuing two months. There is no
evidence that the procedure has any adverse effects on levels of liver enzymes or
blood fats (such as cholesterol).
You
will experience
a
gradual reduction of the fat layer, typically over two to
four months' time.
There are no needles, no anesthetic, no surgical incisions, no pain medications
and no downtime. Temporary side effects include redness, minor bruising,
cramping, tingling or numbness in the treated area. The manufacturer says that
people can enjoy leisurely pursuits like reading, listening to music, surfing the
Internet — even napping — during the procedure, and can resume their normal
routine the same day.