Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting) Guide: Non-Surgical Fat Freezing

Looking for a way to smooth small, stubborn bulges without surgery? Cryolipolysis—often known by the brand name CoolSculpting—selectively freezes fat cells so your body can clear them away over the next few months. It’s ideal for targeted contouring, not overall weight loss.

How cryolipolysis works

Controlled cooling is applied to a pinchable pocket of fat. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold than skin, nerves, or muscle; the treated fat crystallizes and is gradually eliminated by the body over 1–3 months. Sessions take about 35–60 minutes per area with minimal downtime.

Best treatment areas

• Lower abdomen
• Flanks (“love handles”)
• Inner or outer thighs
• Upper back/bra fat
• Under the chin (submental)

Who is a good candidate?

• Within ~10–15 lb of goal weight
• Has small, localized fat pockets that resist diet & exercise
• Good skin elasticity and realistic expectations

Benefits

• Non-invasive (no needles or anesthesia)
• Targets localized bulges
• Minimal downtime—return to routine the same day
• Permanent removal of treated fat cells

Limitations & risks (read before you book)

• Not a weight-loss procedure
• Results develop gradually over weeks to months; multiple sessions may be needed
• Does not tighten loose skin and may accentuate laxity in some cases
• Rare risk: paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH)—the area can enlarge rather than shrink; this is uncommon but important to discuss at consultation

Treatment plan & aftercare

Most clients need 1–3 cycles per area, spaced 4–8 weeks apart. Expect temporary numbness, tingling, or mild soreness. Maintain results with healthy nutrition and activity.

When we recommend alternatives

• Skin laxity or crepeiness: pair with or consider RF skin tightening (e.g., Rafus RF)
• Desire for toning plus fat reduction: consider muscle-stimulating body contouring (e.g., Emsculpt-type devices)
• Larger volume change in a single visit: discuss surgical or RF-assisted liposuction options with a qualified provider

Ready to find your best plan? Book a personalized body-contouring consult at Elegance Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, 8199 Yonge St., Suite 302, Thornhill (L3T 2C6).