How does cryolipolysis work?
Mechanism (cryolipolysis):
- The applicator attaches to the skin — suction draws in the fat
- Temperature drops to –9°C to –11°C for 35–60 minutes
- Fat cells crystallise, triggering apoptosis — programmed cell death
- Dead fat cells are cleared by the lymphatic system over 6–12 weeks
- Skin, blood vessels and muscles remain undamaged
Result: Fat layer reduction of 20–25% at the treatment site after one session.
Who is cryolipolysis suitable for?
YES:
✅ Stubborn localised fat — abdomen, love handles, "saddlebags" on the thighs, "pockets" above the knees ✅ BMI under 30 (this isn't a method for overall weight loss) ✅ Skin with adequate elasticity ✅ Stable weight — not during active weight loss ✅ Men and women (note: the cryolipolysis applicator must cover the entire fat fold)
NO:
❌ Obesity (cryolipolysis contours the body — it doesn't reduce overall body mass) ❌ Pregnancy and breastfeeding ❌ Cryoglobulinaemia, cold agglutinin disease, paroxysmal cold haemoglobinuria ❌ Open wounds, skin lesions or eczema at the site ❌ Hernia or other changes under the skin at the treatment site ❌ Neuropathy at the treatment site
How many sessions do you need?
One session delivers a visible reduction. But:
- Fat layer thickness: Small fold (2–3 cm) — Recommended number of sessions: 1–2 sessionsFat layer thickness: Small fold (2–3 cm)Recommended number of sessions: 1–2 sessions
- Fat layer thickness: Medium fold (3–5 cm) — Recommended number of sessions: 2–3 sessionsFat layer thickness: Medium fold (3–5 cm)Recommended number of sessions: 2–3 sessions
- Fat layer thickness: Large fold (5+ cm) — Recommended number of sessions: 3+ sessions, 8–12 weeks apartFat layer thickness: Large fold (5+ cm)Recommended number of sessions: 3+ sessions, 8–12 weeks apart
Interval between sessions: At least 8 weeks — the body needs time to clear the fat cells.
When do results become visible?
- Time after treatment: 0–3 weeks — Result: Swelling, redness, no visible change (this is normal)Time after treatment: 0–3 weeksResult: Swelling, redness, no visible change (this is normal)
- Time after treatment: 4–6 weeks — Result: First visible changesTime after treatment: 4–6 weeksResult: First visible changes
- Time after treatment: 8–12 weeks — Result: Full results of the sessionTime after treatment: 8–12 weeksResult: Full results of the session
- Time after treatment: 6 months — Result: Final resultTime after treatment: 6 monthsResult: Final result
> Important: The result is permanent — once fat cells are destroyed, they don't come back. However, the remaining fat cells can still expand if you gain weight. Cryolipolysis doesn't replace a healthy diet.
Does it hurt?
The first few minutes bring an intense pulling and cold sensation. After 5–10 minutes, the area numbs itself — the low temperature acts as a local anaesthetic.
After the treatment: You may experience:
- Redness for a few hours
- Mild swelling for 1–2 weeks
- Tingling or numbness for a few weeks — this is normal
- Rarely: bruising at the treatment site
Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia — what is it?
Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) is a rare complication (under 1%) where the treated area develops more fat, shaped like the applicator, instead of less. It's more common in men. Treatment: liposuction.
> At J'ADORE, we inform every patient about PAH. Contact us immediately if you notice the first signs.
Cryolipolysis vs carboxytherapy — which should you choose?
- Mechanism — Adipocyte apoptosis — Vasodilation + metabolism
- Depth — Subcutaneous fat — Fat + cellulite + skin
- Sessions — 1–3 (permanent effect) — 6–10 sessions
- Downtime — Minimal — None
- For cellulite — No (fat only) — Yes
- Results last — Permanent (fat cells destroyed) — Requires maintenance
> Best combination: Cryolipolysis for fat + Carboxytherapy for cellulite and skin finish
Preparation and aftercare
Before: Eat normally. No special recommendations.
After: ✅ Drink plenty of water — it helps the lymphatic system clear the fat cells ✅ Physical activity speeds up fat cell metabolism ✅ Massage the treated area (10–15 minutes right after the session, at the salon) ❌ Avoid saunas for 48 hours
