How fat freezing works to reduce fat
The term "Popsicle Panniculitis" was coined by Harvard scientists who studied the effect of popsicles on children. The term refers to a dermatologic condition where exposure to low temperatures can selectively damage subcutaneous fat while leaving surrounding cells intact. The study showed that as a result of the popsicle, fat cells in the cheeks underwent a cell death resulting in dimples and distortion..
This process is also known as "Apoptosis", a natural and programmed cell death. Fat cells are more easily damaged by cooling than skin cells, cryolipolysis was developed by applying low temperatures to tissue via thermal conduction.
The adipocyte (fat cells) are rich with saturated fatty acids, these cells are particularly sensitive to temperature reduction and freezing. Under such extreme conditions the fat cells die. Other cells such as skin tissue, blood vessels, and our nervous system are not as sensitive to freezing and are therefore unaffected by the Cryolipolysis treatment.
Can I lose weight with Cryolipolysis?
Cryolipolysis is not a method of weight loss. It is designed to reshape and sculpt the body and remove localised stubborn fat or cellulite. Cellulite can be removed in the process and reducing fat can in a sense encourages weight loss but it is not a weight loss guarantee as such.
Cryolipolysis treatments work best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. We can help you with a diet plan if necessary.
How long should I wait after childbirth to have Cryolipolysis?
You must wait a minimum of 3 months after normal birth of your baby or a minimum of 12 months after a C section. It is best to get GP approval post childbirth prior to commencing with treatment.
How soon can I see the results from Cryolipolysis (Fat Freezing)?
You may see results after 2-4 weeks but the full results will be seen after 8-12 weeks. We do request that you come back at week 6 for an interim follow up and then again at week 12 for a final follow up and photos if appropriate. These follow ups are completely free of charge so there are no additional charges for this service.
Do I have to rest after Cryolipolysis treatment?
No, the great thing about the Cryolipolysis service is that you can go about your day as normal. We do advise you to increase your water intake to at least 2 litres per day to help with the fat removal.
What happens during a Cryolipolysis treatment?
After your consultation and photographs, you will have a membrane (which looks like a big wet wipe) placed on the treatment area. Admittedly, the membrane is momentarily very cold despite coming out of the foil packet at room temperature but after the initial few seconds, it warms and it doesn't make your body feel cold.
The hand piece has cooling plates that are set to -5°C and is placed on the treatment area and the suction is started to gain a seal on the area.
Cushions are then placed around the hand piece to keep it in place, before the suction pressure is reduced for the remainder of the treatment. You can then enjoy the rest of the 45-60 minute treatment how you choose - reading a book or magazine, listening to music, enjoying a rare opportunity for some peace and quiet or just enjoying a good chat.
Before your Treatment
To get the best from your treatment it is recommended that you get your body prepared and 'cleansed' for treatment by:
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Increasing water intake
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Reducing toxins from the body (caffeine, tobacco, alcohol)
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Avoid alcohol 24-48 hours prior to treatment
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Reduce intake of fatty foods, and increase consumption of fruit and vegetable
After your Treatment
In order to achieve optimum results from your treatment, we strongly recommend the following:
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Increase your fluid intake to assist with the 'flushing' out of the crystallized lipids in the fat cells
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Lymphatic massage will accelerate the process of removing the fat cells.
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Regular body brushing at home is a great way of stimulating the lymphatic system to naturally eliminate the fat cells.
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Exercise a minimum of 1 hour a week (this is advised but not essential)