Experiencing pockets of excess fat that are resistant to diet and exercise? Looking to for effective ways to achieve a toned and sculpted body? In the past, liposuction used to be the only solution. Pretty invasive, pretty scary, huh? But now with our technological advancements, we now have non-invasive options like fat freeze and radiofrequency treatments! The question now is, fat freeze vs radiofrequency: which is better?
How Do Fat Freeze and Radiofrequency Treatments Work?
Fat cells do not contain much water, which is why they are sensitive to treatments that involving heating or freezing.
Fat freeze and radiofrequency (RF) treatments, though polar opposites, are actually more similar than you think! They both are both designed to eliminated unwanted fat. They are also non-invasive, low-risk treatments with minimal to no downtime. What sets them apart is the mechanisms used to achieve their results.
Fat Freeze (Cryolipolysis)
Fat freeze, a.k.a cryolipolysis, works by freezing and destroying fat cells in the treated area. The cold temperatures cause the fat cells to crystallise and die. The body then naturally eliminates these dead cells over a period of time. This process results in a noticeable reduction of fat in the treated area.
Radiofrequency (RF) Fat Removal
RF fat removal, on the other hand, utilises heat energy to destroy fat cells. The RF energy breaks down the fat cells by penetrating the skin and heats up the underlying fat cells. The body then eliminates the destroyed cells through its natural processes.
The additional benefit of RF fat removal is that it can actually promote collagen production in the treated site. This helps the skin to also become firmer and tighter.
Fat Freeze vs Radiofrequency: Which is Better?
Fat freeze vs radiofrequency: which is better?! We know you want a straight answer, but it really is not that simple! Each treatment has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. And how these treatments work for you is highly dependant on the ideal results you are trying to achieve.
Fat freeze treats pocket of fats well, but it can be less effective in reducing fat uniformly. RF, however, does a great job at treating a large area. To put it simply, fat freeze is great at “spot treating”, while RF is better at treating a larger area.
With RF, it takes about 4-8 sessions to see optimal results. Fat freeze, on the other hand, only requires 2-3 treatments (per area) for optimal results to be observed.
A good overview of the pros and cons of fat freeze vs RF fat removal treatments is:
Fat Freeze (Cryolipolysis)
Radiofrequency
Pros
Good for treating stubborn fat pockets Results in 1-3 sessions (per area)Able to treat deeper fat 15-25% fat reduction in treated area
Good for treating uniform fat Comfortable Short sessions (20-30 mins per treatment) Skin tightening and lifting effects
Cons
Long sessions (1 hour per treatment) Discomfort and soreness may set in after 1-2 days
Numerous sessions required for optimal resultsSome machines can get very hot
Does Combining Both Treatments Give Better Results?
Yes! Patients who combine fat freeze and RF fat removal actually see better results. The combination of fat freeze and RF fat removal is extremely effective at treating fat throughout the treated area. This is because fat freeze is great at treating fat pockets which are mostly deeper under the skin, while RF is better at targeting fat on the superficial layer. RF also helps to tighten and lift the skin. This is especially helpful for individuals who experience volume loss after fat reduction. BUT! These treatments should not be done in conjunction with one another on the same day.
What You Should Know Before Getting Fat Freeze or RF Fat Removal Done
We have said this before, and will say it again! Do not be lead on by an offer that is too good to be true! Not all Cryo or RF machines are created equal. It is good to check what are the available machines at your practitioner’s clinic. Not all machines are FDA approved, and there are plenty of copy-cat machines out there. Do your due diligence in order to lower your risk of horrible side effects or a botched treatment.
Although both treatments are non-invasive, low-risk, and have minimal to no downtime, mild redness and swelling can be expected after treatment. It is also important to note that there can be risks with these treatments. It is possible for odd cases of skin burns to happen. This is why it is advisable to visit an experienced practitioner or a doctor if you are considering to get fat freeze or RF fat removal done.
Confidence is from the inside out. And we don’t just mean “inner beauty”. What you put in your body, how often you exercise, and your lifestyle choices will make you look and feel healthy. Though the long-term results of fat freeze and RF can be significant, these treatments are not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise routine. All the best in your journey towards your body goals, we are rooting for you!
