Cryolipolysis: The Science Behind Fat Freezing Treatments

Fat freezing treatments might be the answer you’ere looking for if you’ve ever struggled with stubborn fat that doesn’t seem to budge, even with diet and exercise. CoolSculpting ® is the name brand for a technical procedure called “cryolipolysis”. Powered by the science of cryolipolysis, this non-invasive treatment freezes fat cells to help you achieve noticeable, long-lasting results. Let’s explore how fat freezing works, why it’s effective, and what makes Element Body Lab the best choice in Dallas and Southlake, TX.


What is cryolipolysis?

Cryolipolysis is the scientific term behind CoolSculpting®. Let’s break it down:

  • Cryo = cold
  • Lipo = fat
  • Lysis = to break apart or destroy

In short, cryolipolysis means using cold to target and destroy unwanted fat.

This process works by freezing fat cells without affecting the surrounding skin, muscles, or nerves. Interestingly, the idea came from a medical observation called popsicle panniculitis, where children who frequently ate popsicles developed dimples in their cheeks. The cold from the popsicle reduced fat in those areas, sparking the idea for fat-freezing treatments.

Scientists built on this discovery to develop CoolSculpting®, a safe, non-invasive way to reduce fat. The treatment cools fat cells to a temperature that causes them to break down naturally. Over time, your body eliminates these damaged fat cells through its natural waste system, leaving you with a slimmer, more sculpted look—no surgery or downtime required.

Discover more about modern CoolSculpting in Dallas, TX

how does coolsculpting fat freezing treatments work


Is CoolSculpting Backed by Science?

Absolutely. CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared and backed by multiple clinical studies. In 2008, researchers conducted pivotal studies on cryolipolysis, showing significant fat reduction after controlled cold exposure. A follow-up study in 2009 revealed the gradual elimination of fat cells over 90 days, reducing fat thickness by 33% with no harm to skin, muscles, or nerves. With more than 17 million fat freezing treatments performed worldwide, it’s the safest and most proven technology for fat reduction today.

But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what one of our happy clients said:
“If you are looking into body contouring, consider CoolSculpting first and talk to the professionals at Element Body Lab. Jessie and her team take results very seriously and will give you advice that gets the best outcome!”


From popsicles to cutting-edge science

The idea for cryolipolysis came from a curious medical observation. In 1970, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine described a condition called popsicle panniculitis. Doctors noticed that children who sucked on popsicles sometimes developed small dimples in their cheeks.

These dimples weren’t harmful, but they happened because the cold temperature from the popsicle froze and reduced the fat in the affected area. This observation inspired researchers to explore how cold could target fat cells in a controlled way. Eventually, this led to the development of cryolipolysis and CoolSculpting.

(Read the full study here)


graphic showing science behind coolsculpting

The pivotal 2008 Study: The Birth of CoolSculpting

In 2008, researchers Dr. Dieter Manstein and Dr. R. Rox Anderson published a pivotal study in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. They tested the concept of cryolipolysis on Black Yucatan pigs by exposing specific areas to cold temperatures. Over several months, they observed significant fat reduction in the treated areas. This study laid the foundation for CoolSculpting as a non-invasive way to destroy fat cells.

The research didn’t stop there. In 2009, another study provided detailed insights into how fat cells respond to cryolipolysis. Scientists used microscopy to observe the process in real-time. They discovered:

  • Apoptotic cascade: Fat cells begin a natural process of cell death, triggering an inflammatory response.
  • Gradual fat loss: Over 90 days, fat cells gradually disappear, reducing fat layer thickness by up to 33%.
  • Safety first: The studies confirmed no damage to skin, nerves, or muscle.

These groundbreaking findings cemented cryolipolysis as a safe and effective treatment, paving the way for CoolSculpting to become a trusted fat reduction option worldwide.


How Does CoolSculpting Work?

CoolSculpting harnesses the science of cryolipolysis to target and reduce stubborn fat in specific areas. Here’s how the process works:

  1. Targeting the Fat: The CoolSculpting applicator gently pulls the fatty tissue into place.
  2. Freezing the Fat Cells: Controlled cooling is applied, freezing fat cells without harming the surrounding skin, muscle, or tissue.
  3. Eliminating the Fat: Over the following weeks, your body naturally processes and removes the destroyed fat cells through its lymphatic system.

The result? A slimmer, more sculpted look without the need for surgery or downtime.


What To Expect During A CoolSculpting Journey:

  • Personalized Treatment Plan: Your journey starts with a consultation where your provider creates a customized plan tailored to your goals and the areas you’d like to treat.
  • Comfortable Treatment Experience: Once the applicator is placed, you might feel a firm tugging or cold sensation at first, but the area quickly becomes numb. Many clients take this time to relax, catch up on a good book, or even take a nap.
  • No Downtime: After your session, you can immediately return to your normal routine. Whether it’s heading back to work or hitting the gym, there’s no need to put your life on hold.

CoolSculpting offers an effective and hassle-free way to address stubborn fat and achieve your body contouring goals


Fat Freezing: How does it work?

Fat cells are more sensitive to cold than other types of tissue—similar to how butter hardens in the fridge while other foods remain unchanged. This sensitivity allows us to precisely target fat without affecting muscle, nerves, blood vessels, or skin.

During fat freezing treatments, controlled cooling is applied to the fat cells, freezing them to a temperature that causes them to break down. Once these cells die, your body naturally processes and removes them as waste. The surrounding tissues stay completely safe throughout the process.


Does Cryolipolysis really work?

Yes! Studies show that cryolipolysis can reduce fat in treated areas by up to 25% after a single session. At Element Body Lab, we’ve seen incredible transformations in our clients.

One recent client said:
“I came to reduce some ‘fluffiness’ around my abs, and after a few weeks, I’m already seeing results after one session!”

For clients who want to see even more dramatic changes, multiple sessions can be scheduled to customize results further

Female chin coolsculpting fat freezing treatments before and after at Element Body Lab

Female abdomen coolsculpting fat freezing treatments before and after at Element Body Lab

Male abdomen coolsculpting fat freezing treatments before and after at Element Body Lab

Female thighs coolsculpting fat freezing treatments before and after at Element Body Lab


What do Doctors Say About CoolSculpting?

Doctors widely recommend CoolSculpting as a safe and effective alternative to surgical fat reduction. Backed by FDA clearance and numerous clinical studies, it consistently delivers impressive results with minimal risks when performed by trained providers.

Dermatologists and plastic surgeons often suggest CoolSculpting for clients seeking a non-invasive solution to stubborn fat. Its ability to target fat without affecting surrounding tissues has made it a trusted option for body contouring, with millions of treatments performed worldwide.


Where does the fat go in Cryolipolysis?

Many people ask, “Where does the fat go after CoolSculpting?” The answer is simple.

What Happens To Fat After CoolSculpting?

Once fat cells freeze and break down, your body processes them naturally, just like it would with any other waste. Over the next few weeks, your lymphatic system clears out the dead fat cells, leaving the treated area slimmer.


Why Choose Element Body Lab for Fat Freezing Treatments?

At Element Body Lab, we’re dedicated to providing the best CoolSculpting experience in Dallas and Southlake, TX. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • CoolSculpting experts: As one of the only CoolSculpting-dedicated practices in the nation, we focus exclusively on this treatment.
  • National expertise: Our practice is led by a national trainer for CoolSculpting, ensuring you receive care from the best in the industry.
  • Guaranteed results: We stand by our work with our Noticeable Results Promise.
  • Concierge-style service: Our small, skilled team provides personalized care and exceptional customer service.

One client shared:
“They are so educated on the treatments and know exactly how to give you the best outcome. I’m obsessed with my results and would absolutely recommend Element Body Lab to anyone and everyone!”


Discover CoolSculpting Fat Freezing Treatments in Dallas and Southlake, TX

Imagine looking in the mirror and seeing a version of yourself that you’ve worked hard for—feeling confident, proud, and ready to take on the world. Stubborn fat can be frustrating, especially when you’ve done everything right with diet and exercise. CoolSculpting offers a solution, giving you the chance to target those problem areas and reveal the shape you’ve been dreaming of.

At Element Body Lab, we believe everyone deserves to feel good in their own skin. Whether you’re looking to smooth out your silhouette, refine your curves, or simply feel more comfortable in your favorite clothes, we’re here to help make that a reality.


Why Wait to Feel Your Best?

CoolSculpting isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling empowered and confident in every part of your life. With no surgery, no downtime, and proven results, it’s the perfect solution for busy people who want to see real, noticeable changes.

Our expert team at Element Body Lab in Dallas and Southlake is ready to guide you through every step of your journey, from consultation to your final results. As the premier CoolSculpting-dedicated practice in the area, we deliver a concierge-style experience tailored to your needs. And with our Noticeable Results Promise, you can trust that your investment in yourself is worth it.


Take the First Step Today

Don’t wait to feel the confidence you deserve. Discover more about modern CoolSculpting in Dallas, TX and schedule your consultation with Element Body Lab today.

Picture your transformation—starting now. Whether it’s tackling love handles, toning your arms, or smoothing out your tummy, we’re here to help you achieve the results you’ve been dreaming of. Your best self is just a click away!

Ready to get started in Dallas, Texas? The first step is a consultation with us.