Side by side
| Fat freezing | Liposuction | |
|---|---|---|
| How | An applicator cools the fat for a set time; the cells die and the body clears them | Fat suctioned out through small cuts |
| Change | Modest, in one area at a time, over two to three months | Larger, visible once swelling settles, over up to six months |
| Sessions | Often two or more per area | Usually one operation |
| Downtime | Little; numbness and tenderness for some weeks | A garment for weeks, a week or so off a desk job |
| Cost in Ireland | From about €140 a session | €2,200 to €7,000 |
The rare side effect worth knowing
In a small number of people, the treated fat grows thicker instead of shrinking, weeks after the session. It's called paradoxical adipose hyperplasia. It's rare, it doesn't go away by itself, and it is usually corrected with liposuction. Ask any provider how often they see it and what they do.
Which suits whom
Fat freezing suits a small, pinchable bulge in someone near their usual weight who doesn't want surgery and is happy with a gradual, modest change. Liposuction suits a larger amount of fat, several areas, or someone who wants one decision with a more certain result. Neither tightens loose skin.
Questions people ask
Is fat freezing permanent?
The treated fat cells are gone, like liposuction. The remaining ones can still grow if you gain weight.
Does fat freezing hurt?
There's intense cold and pulling for the first minutes, then numbness. Some people feel tender for days afterwards.
Who should do fat freezing?
A trained provider using a device made for it. Ask about training, the device, and what they do if something goes wrong.