CoolSculpting / CoolSculpting Elite / Zeltiq / Cooltech
FDA-cleared non-invasive body contouring procedure that uses precisely controlled cooling to freeze and permanently destroy fat cells in targeted areas without affecting surrounding tissue, reducing fat in treated areas by 20–27% per session.
How it works
Applicator delivers precisely controlled cooling (-11°C to -10°C) to the subcutaneous fat layer. Lipids in fat cells crystallise at temperatures above those that damage skin, nerves, or muscle — a principle called cryolipolysis. Crystallised fat cells undergo apoptosis; over the following 4–12 weeks the lymphatic system processes and eliminates the destroyed cells permanently. Up to 20–27% fat reduction per treatment cycle.
Reported benefits
- Permanent fat reduction without surgery
- Abdomen, flanks (love handles), and muffin top reduction
- Inner and outer thigh slimming
- Upper arm fat reduction
- Double chin (submental fat) reduction
- Bra fat reduction
- Male chest (gynaecomastia fat) reduction
Regulatory status
Approved for: Non-invasive fat reduction in multiple body areas
Zeltiq CoolSculpting CE-marked for EU use. Widely available at aesthetic clinics and some dermatology practices across EU. Multiple applicator sizes CE-marked for different body areas.
Approved for: Non-invasive fat reduction
CoolSculpting MHRA-registered as a medical device. Available at aesthetic clinics across UK. Not a medical procedure requiring physician administration, though often performed in medical settings.
Approved for: Submental (double chin) fat, Abdomen, Flanks, Back fat, Inner and outer thighs, Upper arm, Bra fat, Underneath the buttocks
CoolSculpting (Allergan) FDA-cleared in 2010 for flank fat; cleared for additional body areas through 2016. One of the most clinically validated non-invasive fat reduction technologies with extensive peer-reviewed literature. Note: rare paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) complication (~1 in 20,000) is recognised.
Practical details
Frequency: One or more sessions per area; can retreat same area after 8–12 weeks
Results last: Results appear over 4–12 weeks; permanent fat cell elimination
Contraindications:
- Cryoglobulinaemia, cold agglutinin disease, or paroxysmal cold haemoglobinuria
- Raynaud's disease
- Chilblains or cold urticaria
- Impaired skin sensation in treatment area
- Pregnancy
- Not suitable for obesity — a contouring tool, not a weight-loss treatment
Always consult a licensed medical professional before undergoing any treatment. This information is educational only and does not constitute medical advice.