Cool Shape fat freezing (Coolthera) for localised fat reduction without surgery
An applicator cools the fat layer to −5 °C for 30–40 minutes per area. Fat cells, which are more sensitive to cold than other tissue, break down and are cleared by the body within 8–12 weeks. The fat layer in the treated area typically reduces by around 20–30% per session.
The principle of cryolipolysis
Fat cells are damaged by cold at a higher temperature than skin, nerves and muscle. When the applicator draws in the skin and fat layer and holds them steadily at −5 °C for 30–40 minutes, the fat cells in that area enter natural programmed cell death (apoptosis), while the skin is protected by a gel pad and a temperature control system. Over the following weeks, white blood cells gradually clear the dead fat cells, which are removed through the lymphatic system and liver as normal, so the result is clearest at 8–12 weeks rather than immediately. The Coolthera device has applicators in several sizes for the chin, upper arms, abdomen and thighs, and can treat 2 areas at once to save time.
Treatable areas and typical sessions
| Area | Applicators per session | Sessions usually recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Double chin | 1 (small applicator) | 1–2 sessions |
| Upper / lower abdomen | 1–2 | 1–3 sessions |
| Flanks (love handles) | 2 (left and right) | 1–2 sessions |
| Back of the upper arms | 2 | 1–2 sessions |
| Back and underarm (bra fat) | 2 | 1–2 sessions |
| Inner / outer thighs / under the buttocks (banana roll) | 2 | 1–3 sessions |
On the day
Results and what to expect
Who it suits
- Near a normal weight (BMI up to around 30) but with pockets of fat that exercise does not shift
- A fat layer thick enough for the applicator to grip (at least about 2–3 cm when pinched)
- Skin that still has reasonable elasticity. Very loose skin may need RF as well
- No time for recovery, and comfortable with results that build gradually
Not suitable if your BMI is above 30 (weight management comes first), you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you have had a caesarean or abdominal surgery within 6 months, you have a hernia in the treatment area, you have a cold-sensitivity condition such as cryoglobulinaemia, cold urticaria or Raynaud's, the skin in the area is wounded or inflamed, you have a pacemaker, or sensation in the area is abnormal. A rare risk we must disclose is paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, in which the fat in the treated area becomes thicker in the shape of the applicator 2–6 months later (reported in roughly 1 in several thousand treatments). It is corrected with liposuction and does not resolve on its own
Prices
| Cool Shape, 1 area (1 applicator) Doctor's assessment, gel pad, 30–40 minutes of cooling, post-treatment massage, comparison photographs | [ ] |
| Cool Shape, 2 areas at once Suited to left and right flanks, both upper arms or both thighs | [ ] |
| Course combined with Sculpt Shape Fat reduction followed by muscle firming in the same area | [ ] |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many kilograms will I lose with Cool Shape?
The number on the scales barely changes, because the fat removed per area weighs only a few hundred grams. What you see is a change in shape and in the thickness of the fat layer in that area. If you want to lose weight, use the weight-management programme.
How many sessions are enough?
Many areas give a satisfying result from the first session. Thicker areas may need 2–3, spaced at least 8 weeks apart in the same area so the result can be assessed first.
Does it hurt?
The first 5–10 minutes bring firm suction and intense cold, after which the area goes numb and feels more comfortable. The massage after the applicator comes off may tingle sharply for a moment. Most people need no pain relief.
How is it different from liposuction?
Liposuction removes a large amount of fat in one go but involves surgery and recovery. Cool Shape reduces around 20–30% of the fat layer per session with no wound, and suits small areas and people who do not want surgery.
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