Ask the doctors.
Question
I can't do away with my double chin regardless of how much weight I lose. I don't desire a face lift. I even have heard that CoolSculpting may be effective. Does it work? Is it protected?
Oh CoolSculpting is the trade name for cryolipolysis, a treatment that uses cold temperatures to destroy fat cells while protecting the overlying skin from frostbite. It is predicated on a discovery that fat tissue may be damaged by cooling it to temperatures that don't damage the encircling skin, nerves, blood vessels or muscle tissue. This procedure targets areas of fat which can be proof against weight loss program or exercise, offering a non-invasive alternative to liposuction.
Treatment involves using a “cold applicator” that resembles a canister vacuum attachment to significantly cool the targeted area. The level of cold and the duration of maintaining the cold temperature varies based on the particular location for fat loss. The technician then massages the cooled tissue for several minutes. The dead fat cells are absorbed by the body over the subsequent several weeks.
This technique originally received FDA approval for treating fat on the abdomen, hips, and thighs and used a comparatively large applicator. As smaller applicators were developed, cryolipolysis was later refined to be used on the double chin, underarms and fat across the bra line.
In an evaluation of information from greater than 1,000 individuals who underwent cryolipolysis, fat within the treated areas decreased by about 25 percent, on average, and uncomfortable side effects were limited to temporary redness, bruising, pain, and numbness. Cost will depend on the scale and variety of areas treated, starting from $750 to $4,000 per session. It may take several treatments to realize the specified effect.
Photo: © Tutye/Getty Images