How does cryolipolysis or fat freezing treatment cause second degree burning in many victims?

Question

I have read an article on a lady getting second degree burning after fat freezing treatment. But I am curious that if cryolipolysis exposure to cooling is set so that it causes death of cells in the subcutaneous fat tissue without damaging the overlying skin then how did the victims get second degree burning? If you can get burnt from cryolipolysis, wouldn't it have similar (maybe lesser risk?) to placing ice packs on an area to "freeze the fat"?

Jennifer Cova, DO · Answer

The safety and preparation is all key to Coolsculpting technology.  First the skin is prepped by wiping with a 'barrier'  of propylene glycol, then a gel pad is applied over the treatment area, followed by using the correct applicator and contours.  When these steps are followed accordingly, there should be no risk of burns happening or skin being affected.  Please be advised to research Certified Practices and ask directly how they do prevent side effects such as this if you are considering.  Coolsculpting is a very safe non invasive procedure and when done correctly will show amazing results.

Steven Swengel, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. During Coolsculpting treatments there are certain measures that are taken to make sure the skin is protected from the cold temperatures. A gel pad is applied directly on the area where the applicator will be placed. The old applicators had an additional plastic liner for additional protection. If these measures are not done or they are done incorrectly there can be a thermal injury to the skin. Make sure to always get treatments performed in offices where there is a board certified physician. Hope this helps, Dr. S.

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

this is a good question.  Before the coolsculpting applicator is applied there is a gel pad that is applied. this protects the skin from being damaged by the extreme cold.  I am not familiar with that case but it would seem that the gel pad was not applied correctly and the skin was damaged by the freezing temperature of the applicator.

Drew Varano, MD · Answer

Coolsculpting works by obtaining temperatures that permit fat to freeze and cause a programmed cell death . Fat freezes at higher temperatures than skin or other anatomical structures, therefore it should preferentially affect fat only. If there is an issue with skin than the device could have achieved lower temperature than designed. I have not seen this in over 7 years of performing the treatment.  If it happens it is likely a knock off machine , or something interfered with the temperature design. Lastly crime scenes refer to individuals as "victims".....medical practices like to refer to individuals as patients .

How does cryolipolysis or fat freezing treatment cause second degree burning in many victims?

Answers (4)

Answer: Coolsculpting

Answer: Coolsculpting

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cryolipolysis

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How does cryolipolysis or fat freezing treatment cause second degree burning in many victims?

Answers (4)

Answer: Coolsculpting

Answer: Coolsculpting

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cryolipolysis

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.