Losing 20%-40% of one’s body fat in a targeted area without undergoing liposuction seems almost too good to be true, but there is solid scientific data and well respected physicians behind the fat removal technique known as CoolSculpting®.  CoolSculpting® is based on a patented process called cryolipolysis™, also known as fat freezing.  Before human studies were undertaken by the researchers, cryolipolysis™ in animal models was proven safe and effective in removing layers of fat cells from a specific area.  Reduction in thickness of fat layers was a result duplicated in human studies before this device was cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration.  CoolSculpting® delivers excellent results in the reduction of fat, but it is not a substitute for liposuction.  The ideal candidate for CoolSculpting® is a person who is physically fit, within about 10-15 pounds of his/her ideal body weight, and who has pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.  Therefore, someone who is over 15 pounds of his/her ideal weight and someone who does not exercise or follow a healthy diet is not a good candidate.  This does not mean that such a person cannot have CoolSculpting; it does mean that he/she will likely not be satisfied with the results.  In such circumstances, that patient would have better aesthetic results following liposuction.  West Houston Dermatology Laser & Skin Care Clinic was one of the first dermatology offices in Houston to have the CoolSculpting® machine, and we’ve performed non-invasive fat removal treatments on numerous patients with excellent results.