When it comes to non-invasive fat reduction, two popular treatments are Photobiomodulation (PBM) Laser Lipolysis and Cryo Fat Freezing. While both are effective in reducing stubborn fat, they use different technologies and have distinct characteristics.
Technology and Mechanism
- PBM Laser Lipolysis uses low-level laser therapy to stimulate fat cells, causing them to release stored fat. The laser light penetrates the skin, targeting fat cells without damaging surrounding tissues. The fat is then transported via the Lymphatic System to either be used or excreted.
- Cryo Fat Freezing, or Cryolipolysis, freezes fat cells to sub-zero temperatures, causing them to crystallize and eventually break down. The body then eliminates these dead cells over several weeks.
Pain and Comfort
- PBM Laser Lipolysis is typically painless. The treatment feels like a gentle warmth or mild tingling sensation on the skin, making it a comfortable experience.
- Cryo Fat Freezing can be uncomfortable for some, as it involves the application of cold temperatures to the skin. The sensation is often described as intense cold or a mild aching, which typically subsides once the area becomes numb. The initial discomfort can last a few minutes but usually fades after the first few minutes of treatment.
Treatment Areas and Applicability
- PBM Laser Lipolysis is versatile, able to be used anywhere fat accumulates on the body. Treatment areas range from small (chin, jaw, back of arms) to large (abdomen, thighs, back).
- Cryo Fat Freezing is limited to larger areas like the abdomen, flanks, or back, requiring significant fat deposits for the treatment to be administered.
Risks and Side Effects
- PBM Laser Lipolysis carries minimal risk, with rare side effects like redness or mild skin irritation.
- Cryo Fat Freezing has a higher risk of temporary side effects, including bruising, swelling, and a phenomenon known as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where fat cells enlarge rather than shrink. It may in some rare instances result in Frost Bite.
In summary, both treatments offer non-invasive fat reduction, but PBM laser lipolysis is pain free, with minimal side effects, allowing for more areas to be treated with no minimum fat requirement to be effective.
