Cryolipolysis
A non-surgical fat freezing treatment that destroys fat cells in small, targeted areas of the body.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Cryolipolysis, often called fat freezing, is a non-surgical procedure that uses controlled cooling to destroy fat cells in specific areas of the body. The treated fat cells are gradually removed by the body over the following weeks. It is best for small, stubborn pockets of fat rather than overall weight loss.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive procedure that selectively targets subcutaneous adipocytes using controlled cooling, inducing adipocyte apoptosis without damaging the overlying skin or surrounding tissues. The body clears the apoptotic fat cells over two to four months, resulting in localised fat reduction. It is not a weight loss treatment and does not improve visceral fat or metabolic health.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Fat freezing can refine stubborn areas, but it is not a substitute for medical weight loss. Dr Joseph Wang can help you decide whether a procedure like cryolipolysis or a medical weight management plan is the right fit for your goals.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.