With the arrival of summer and long days at the beach, the concern about that localized fat that insists on not disappearing motivates the search for non-invasive treatments. Two of the most recent and popular non-invasive techniques are HIFU and Cryolipolysis.
But which is better? Which is more effective?
It is important to start by mentioning that both treatments are safe and well tolerated, as long as they are carried out in duly authorized places and by technicians with adequate training.
However, there are differences between them that are not so much related to their effectiveness in destroying fat but to the areas of the body where they act.
HIFU, High Intensity Focus Ultrasound, is a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound waves to destroy the adipocyte membrane through heat and thus empty the fat cell, which is subsequently phagocytosed by the body's macrophages. It is a procedure that does not require incisions or even anesthesia and is usually used for smaller areas of the body such as the chin, arms and the area around the knees.
HIFU also improves skin quality, reducing sagging by stimulating the fibroblasts that produce more collagen and elastin. HIFU sessions last between 30 to 60 minutes. Between 1 and 3 sessions are recommended, spaced 1 month apart. Therefore, HIFU is a very interesting technique for smaller areas of the body and areas that simultaneously present localized fat and sagging skin.
Cryolipolysis is a treatment that uses low temperatures to freeze triglycerides found inside the fat cell, the adipocyte. Once frozen, the triglyceride assumes a spiculated shape that, with adequate stimulation, allows the adipocyte membrane to rupture, emptying it.
Cryolipolysis is a technique that does not require anesthesia or incisions and is very interesting for treating larger areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, etc.
Patients usually require 1 to 3 sessions lasting around 35 minutes per area.
The results of cryolipolysis will be obtained over the following weeks.
Cryolipolysis is a safe method and is usually very well tolerated. It presents minimal and transient side effects such as numbness, localized redness, hematoma or edema in the treated area.
Any of the techniques must then be carried out in duly authorized places, with adequate conditions and with professionals who carry out an adequate clinical history in order to guarantee that the treatment takes place in a safe and effective way.