Cryolipolysis: what it is and its place in facial aesthetics
Quick facts
- Definition
- Controlled cooling of an area to reduce fat cells, without surgery.
- Facial use
- Cited for submental fat (double chin) in selected cases.
- Common effects
- Temporary redness, swelling, numbness, and tenderness.
- Rare risk
- Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia: increased fat in the treated area.
Cryolipolysis is a technique that uses controlled cooling to reduce fat cells (adipocytes) in a localized area. The cold affects fat more intensely than the surrounding skin, and the body clears the affected cells over several weeks. In facial aesthetics, the most discussed use is on submental fat, the popular double chin.
Who is it suitable for?
The technique fits best when the concern is localized fat under the chin, with good-quality skin and a platysma without significant laxity. When the problem is laxity, excess skin, or the position of the hyoid bone, cryolipolysis tends not to solve it, and other approaches come into consideration. The decision rests with the professional, after examination.
| Situation | Can consider |
|---|---|
| Localized submental fat, firm skin | Cryolipolysis, among other options |
| Fat and laxity | Combination or another technique |
| Predominant laxity | Radiofrequency, threads, or lifting |
| Bony cause (recessed chin) | Assessment of the chin |
What are the effects and risks?
Right after the session, redness, swelling, numbness, and tenderness are common and usually pass within days or weeks. There is also a rare, documented risk: paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, in which the fat in the treated area increases instead of decreasing, and may require correction. Near the chin, the proximity of the marginal mandibular branch, a motor nerve, is also considered, along with possible temporary weakness of the smile.
In Harmy
Harmy works with the frontal photo and the Chin and Jawline points, to simulate volume. The app does not project submental fat reduction or cryolipolysis.
Frequently asked questions
What is cryolipolysis?
It is a procedure that cools an area of the body in a controlled way to reduce fat cells. On the face, it is discussed for the area under the chin.
Does cryolipolysis on the double chin have risks?
There are common effects, such as numbness and redness, and rare risks, such as paradoxical fat increase. The indication and the equipment are decisions of the qualified professional.