As the list of noninvasive cosmetic procedures grows with newer and better technology, there are many people that like to try to replicate them on their own to save time and money. Even worse, they may go to cheaper “professionals” who are either not licensed and/or not using devices approved by the FDA. This puts them at risk for undergoing and paying for potentially dangerous procedures.
Cryolipolysis and DIY at Home Fat Freezing
One of the biggest DIY beauty trends is at-home fat freezing, also known as cryolipolysis. There are currently many products being sold that claim to safely freeze fat at home, similarly to the way that CoolSculpting does. And this is understandable, given that it seems like a simple enough process to replicate outside the confines of a medical office. However, this is not the case, and attempting to freeze fat with devices that are not approved by the FDA can leave users with lasting physical damage.
CoolSculpting vs DIY Home Fat Freezing Compared
But before we talk about the dangers of “at-home” fat freezing, let’s talk about what the professional CoolSculpting process actually entails. A CoolSculpting procedure uses both suction and fat freezing in specific increments of time and at set, monitored temperatures. A precise area is targeted with a CoolSculpting device for proper application, allowing the fat cells to shrink and be frozen. Many of the frozen cells die, and are then flushed out naturally via the excretory and lymphatic systems.
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 using the clinically tested therapeutic temperatures to kill the fat cells while leaving other tissues unharmed.
There are currently no at-home cryolipolysis treatments that have been clinically tested or regulated by anyone, anywhere. And, there are dozens of resources on how to accomplish at-home CoolSculpting, but none of these claims have been tested. This is a procedure must be done correctly in order to target the fat you want to freeze. Without the right conditions, fat cells cannot be killed, and you can instead be left an ineffective treatment and even skin damage.
What can go wrong with “DIY” fat freezing?
The number one concern with attempting fat freezing with a device that has not been approved by the FDA is skin damage from cold burns. This can include mild risks like numbness and pain or more serious issues like frostbite and tissue damage. This damage can be both permanent and incredibly painful. Extremely 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.
Our Advice? Forget the “At Home” Fat Freezing
When it comes to most cosmetic procedure, your best bet is to leave it to the professionals. Medical practices with FDA-approved CoolSculpting machines offer reliable treatments to help you reach your body contouring goals. Here at Panacea Plastic Surgery, our providers are supervised by board-certified plastic surgeons and undergo CoolSculpting training by the same company that makes the machines. If you’re consider CoolSculpting and want to give it a try, don’t attempt to do it yourself or find a cheaper alternative. Book a consultation with a certified CoolSculpting Specialist for the sake of your health and overall wellbeing.