A “Cool” Solution For Fat Removal

I recently read an article on fat freezing. Yep, that’s right. There’s a method for getting rid of those impossible bulges (think muffin top, love handles, belly and back fat) by putting your fat on ice (sort of). After getting past my initial shock of ice no longer being purely for my favorite cocktails, I decided to learn more! Zeltiq (aka CoolSculpting) is for those who are fairly fit but can’t get rid of those pesky pudgy areas no matter how much they diet and exercise. In essence, think of it as “spot reducing” your problem areas.

What The #*%@ Is CoolSculpting?

Here’s the skinny…CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that uses a cooling method called Cryolipolysis to target and eliminate the fat cells. Cryo…what?!? I know, I know. Although it sounds intense, no tissue or skin is damaged in the process and the pain factor is pretty mild (here’s a visual: it’s a machine with an extended handle that has two metal paddles that “tug” at the targeted areas for approximately an hour, all while you’re reading the latest Us Weekly).  And after one to three sessions, the magic starts to happen. During the next few months, the fat cells are broken down and eliminated from the body. Perhaps the most important question: are the results permanent? CoolSculpting claims that once the fat cells are eliminated, they’re gone for good (as long as you maintain a normal diet and exercise…so, unfortunately no regular trips to Krispy Kreme).

To Freeze Or Not To Freeze?

Each treatment runs about $1,500 bucks and will likely require two to three sessions. So, to freeze or not to freeze? I’m definitely intrigued by the idea of being able to spot-reduce those impossible-to-get-rid-of areas. But for now I’m going to keep my icy experiences strictly to frozen margaritas. The second a friend or I give it a go, oh, you can bet there will be a Part Two (complete with pictures). Bring on those ever-elusive six-pack abs I dream of…