The dangers of trying to freeze fat with devices that are not approved by the FDA
As the list of noninvasive cosmetic procedures grows with newer and better technology, there are many people that like to try to replicate procedures on their own to save time and money. Even worse, they may go to cheaper “professionals” who are either not licensed, not using devices approved by the FDA, or both, and paying for potentially dangerous procedures. No matter what YouTube channel you’re following or what “medical” office your neighbor tries to refer you to, you should do your own research to ensure that you accomplish your cosmetic procedure goals safely and correctly.
The craze of cryolipolysis – commonly known as CoolSculpting – is no stranger to these dangers, as it seems like an incredibly simple procedure that can easily be replicated at home. This is, however, not the case, as attempting to freeze fat with devices that are not approved by the FDA can leave you with serious physical damage on top of being incredibly ineffective.
How does CoolSculpting Work?
But before we talk about the dangers of “at-home” CoolSculpting, let’s talk about what this process actually entails. A CoolSculpting procedure involves the use of both suction and cold temperatures in specific increments of time. A precise area is targeted with a CoolSculpting device for proper application, allowing the fat cells to shrink and be killed. These cells then get flushed out naturally by your body, thus slimming you down.
Sounds easy enough, right? Suction and cold temperatures on a specific area. Well, attempting to complete this procedure without an FDA-approved device is not advisable. The CoolSculpting device and all the handpieces that attach to the body have been approved by the FDA. This means medical practices can offer reliable treatments that will apply the correct amount of therapeutic temperatures to kill the fat cells while leaving other tissues unharmed. This is unlike DIY cryolipolysis treatments that have not been regulated by anyone! Proper cryolipolysis requires a specific amount of suction and an exact cold temperature applied together in specific amounts of time to be done properly, and it has to be done in the correct places to target the fat you want to freeze. Without these conditions, fat cells cannot be killed, and you can instead be left an ineffective treatment on the one hand, or damaging unwanted tissues on the other.
What can go wrong with “DIY” fat freezing?
The number one concern with attempting CoolSculpting without FDA-approved devices is skin damage from cold burns. This can include mild risks like numbness and pain or serious results of frostbite and tissue damage. This damage can be both permanent and incredibly painful. Incredibly cold temperatures can also produce blisters and burns that leave scars or skin discoloration. Even worse, you could permanently damage muscles and nerves underneath the skin.
There are dozens of resources on how to accomplish at-home CoolSculpting, but none of these claims are effective and safe. There are also “fat freezing” devices on the market that claim to give you treatments at home. Some of them have straps, and attachments are made to look legitimate. However, there have been zero clinical trials conducted by legitimate entities on these “at-home” devices. Although that is the premise behind cryolipolysis, this device is not FDA approved and, like other at-home methods, can cause way more harm than good on top of not actually working.
“At Home” Fat Freezing Conclusion
When it comes to any cosmetic procedure, your best bet is to leave it to the pros. Medical professionals with actual CoolSculpting machines can offer reliable treatments to help you reach your goals. Plus, they are the only people with FDA-approved equipment. Here at Panacea Plastic Surgery, we are supervised by board-certified plastic surgeons and have experienced CoolSculpting Specialists at your service. If you’re looking into CoolSculpting and want to give it a try for your problem areas, don’t attempt to do it yourself or find a cheaper alternative. Book a consultation with a certified CoolSculpting Specialist Professional for the sake of your health and overall wellbeing.
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