Fat freezing, also known as cryolipolysis, has revolutionised non-surgical body contouring, offering a less invasive option for fat reduction. But how did this game-changing treatment come to be? In this article, we explore the fascinating history of fat freezing—from its origin story to its global adoption, its price evolution, and the groundbreaking medical studies that backed its success.
The Origin Story: Lollipop-Inspired Invention
The concept of fat freezing began with a unique observation—lollipop-induced dimples. Researchers at Harvard University noticed that children who sucked on popsicles had localised fat loss around the area of their cheeks. This observation led to a crucial question: Could cold temperatures cause fat cells to break down without harming surrounding tissues?
This curiosity led to the development of cryolipolysis, the scientific basis for fat freezing, which uses controlled cooling to target and destroy fat cells in specific areas of the body. The process was discovered by two Harvard scientists—Dr. Dieter Manstein and Dr R. Rox Anderson—in 2008.
The Birth of CoolSculpting: The Original Fat Freezing Brand
Following this discovery, the next step was commercialising fat freezing technology. This led to the birth of CoolSculpting, the first and most well-known brand offering cryolipolysis treatments.
Launched by Zeltiq Aesthetics in 2010, CoolSculpting was the result of years of research and development. It was designed as a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that could help people eliminate stubborn fat in areas like the abdomen, thighs, love handles, and double chin.
The initial treatment was priced high due to its innovative nature and the extensive clinical trials that supported its efficacy. The pricing structure reflected the advanced technology, medical expertise, and exclusive nature of the procedure.
From History of Fat Freezing to International Adoption: A Global Trend
What started as an innovative solution in the U.S. quickly gained international attention. CoolSculpting became the first FDA-approved fat-freezing technology, setting the standard for the non-surgical body contouring industry. Although the history of fat Today, fat freezing is available in clinics across the globe, including Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The technology’s growing popularity is attributed to its non-invasive nature, minimal downtime, and consistent results. In addition to body contouring, the procedure has been adapted for various aesthetic needs, including reducing double chin fat and firming loose skin.
Important Clinical Studies: Medical Validation of Fat Freezing
Several key studies have helped validate fat freezing as a safe and effective treatment for body contouring. These studies, published in medical journals and presented at aesthetic medicine conferences, provided the scientific evidence needed to support its widespread use.
- Cryolipolysis for Noninvasive Body Contouring: Clinical Efficacy and Patient Satisfaction
- Summary: This study demonstrated that cryolipolysis effectively reduces subcutaneous fat by up to 25% after a single treatment, with 86% of patients reporting visible improvements. Dove Medical Press
- Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Cryolipolysis
- Summary: A 2025 study confirmed that cryolipolysis is a safe method for reducing localised abdominal fat in women, with no significant adverse effects reported. PubMed Central
- Cryolipolysis and Associated Health Outcomes, Adverse Events, and Satisfaction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Summary: This meta-analysis found that cryolipolysis leads to significant fat reduction, with mild and transient side effects, and high patient satisfaction. ResearchGate
- Effects of Cryolipolysis on Lower Abdomen Fat Thickness of Healthy Women and Patient Satisfaction: A Randomised Controlled Trial
- Summary: This trial found that a single cryolipolysis session did not significantly affect abdominal fat thickness in healthy women, highlighting the need for multiple sessions for noticeable results. rbf-bjpt.org.br
- Cryolipolysis for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring
- Summary: A 2015 review concluded that cryolipolysis is a promising non-surgical alternative to liposuction, offering significant fat reduction with minimal side effects. Lippincott Journals
- Cryolipolysis: A Promising Nonsurgical Technique for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring
- Summary: This study emphasised the safety and efficacy of cryolipolysis, noting its potential as a non-invasive body contouring method. Wiley Online Library
- Application of Cryolipolysis in Adipose Tissue: A Systematic Review
- Summary: This review highlighted cryolipolysis as an effective technique for reducing localised fat, with most participants reporting satisfaction at the end of the treatment. PubMed
- Cryolipolysis for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring: Safety and Efficacy of Current Treatment Paradigms
- Summary: This overview discussed the safety and efficacy of cryolipolysis, noting its effectiveness in fat reduction and body contouring. OUP Academic
- Cryolipolysis and Associated Health Outcomes, Adverse Events, and Satisfaction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the health outcomes, adverse events, and patient satisfaction associated with cryolipolysis, providing comprehensive insights into its effects. ResearchGate
- Cryolipolysis for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring: Safety and Efficacy of Current Treatment Paradigms
- Summary: This article discussed the safety and efficacy of cryolipolysis, highlighting its role in fat reduction and body contouring. OUP Academic
- Cryolipolysis and Associated Health Outcomes, Adverse Events, and Satisfaction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the health outcomes, adverse events, and patient satisfaction associated with cryolipolysis, offering valuable insights into its effects. ResearchGate
- Cryolipolysis for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring: Safety and Efficacy of Current Treatment Paradigms
- Summary: This review article examined the safety and efficacy of cryolipolysis, emphasising its effectiveness in fat reduction and body contouring. OUP Academic
- Cryolipolysis and Associated Health Outcomes, Adverse Events, and Satisfaction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the health outcomes, adverse events, and patient satisfaction associated with cryolipolysis, providing comprehensive insights into its effects. ResearchGate
- Cryolipolysis for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring: Safety and Efficacy of Current Treatment Paradigms
- Summary: This article discussed the safety and efficacy of cryolipolysis, highlighting its role in fat reduction and body contouring. OUP Academic
- Cryolipolysis and Associated Health Outcomes, Adverse Events, and Satisfaction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the health outcomes, adverse events, and patient satisfaction associated with cryolipolysis, offering valuable insights into its effects. ResearchGate
Price History of Fat Freezing: From Luxury Treatment to Accessible Service
Fat freezing treatments like CoolSculpting have become increasingly popular due to their non-invasive approach to body contouring. In the early stages, prices for a single treatment session typically ranged from £1,200 to £3,000, depending on the treatment area and geographic location. The high cost was partly due to the cutting-edge technology, research, and clinical validation behind these treatments.
As the procedure gained wider acceptance and more competitors entered the market, the prices began to drop. Today, a fat freezing session can cost as little as £100 per session, with discounts and package deals often available at VIVO Body Studio. However, prices can still vary depending on factors like the clinic, location, and the specific area being treated.
Conclusion
From the humble history of fat freezing, inspired by a lollipop, to its widespread use today, the history of fat freezing has come a long way. CoolSculpting, the brand that pioneered this technology, has helped millions achieve their body contouring goals without the need for surgery. The procedure has transformed the aesthetic industry and continues to grow in popularity globally.
As the treatment becomes more affordable and accessible, and as ongoing studies reinforce its effectiveness, fat freezing remains one of the most reliable, non-invasive options for fat reduction. Whether you’re looking to target stubborn belly fat or sculpt your thighs, fat freezing offers a proven solution with lasting results.