Active Heating following Cryolipolysis Reduces Efficacy and Side Effects: A Randomized Split-Body Trial

Area of Science:

• Aesthetic medicine
• Dermatology
• Body contouring

Background:

• Cryolipolysis is a noninvasive body contouring method with fewer side effects than liposuction, but lower efficacy.
• The effectiveness of cryolipolysis in reducing localized adipose tissue is a key area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if post-cryolipolysis heating enhances fat reduction efficacy.
• To compare the effects of heating versus no heating on cryolipolysis outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, controlled, investigator-blinded, split-body trial was conducted on 25 subjects.
• One side of the lower abdomen received cryolipolysis followed by heating; the other side served as a control.
• Data collected included side effects, fat layer thickness via ultrasound, and subject satisfaction over 12 weeks.

Main Results:

• Heating significantly reduced side effects like edema, erythema, and hypesthesia compared to the control side.
• However, sonographic fat reduction was significantly lower on heated sites (9.6%) versus control sites (14.1%).
• Overall satisfaction was high, but subjective fat loss recognition did not differ between sides.

Conclusions:

• Active heating after cryolipolysis improves patient comfort by reducing side effects.
• Heating significantly impairs the fat-reducing effectiveness of cryolipolysis and should be avoided.
• Further research is needed to improve cryolipolysis efficacy.