Cryolipolysis conformable-surface applicator for nonsurgical fat reduction in lateral thighs

Abstract

Background: Vacuum applicators have been effective for cryolipolysis of the abdomen, flanks, inner thighs, back, chest, and arms. However, the lateral thighs have not been easily treated because fat from this area cannot be easily drawn into a vacuum cup.

Objectives: The authors investigated the safety and efficacy of a prototype applicator for treatment of "nonpinchable" fat in the lateral thighs.

Methods: In this prospective, nonrandomized, interventional cohort, multicenter study, a 120-minute unilateral treatment with a prototype conformable-surface applicator was performed on 1 lateral thigh of 40 patients, with the contralateral thigh serving as the control. During follow-up visits at 2 and 4 months, fat reduction was assessed by ultrasound imaging and clinical photography, and patient satisfaction surveys were completed.

Results: Ultrasound data indicated a 2.6-mm mean normalized reduction in fat thickness-a statistically significant reduction vs the untreated control thigh (P = 7.8E-8). According to patient survey responses, 89% of patients would recommend the procedure to a friend; 86% were satisfied with cryolipolysis for the lateral thighs; 86% noticed visible fat reduction; and 97% were likely to undergo a second treatment. A panel of 3 independent blinded physicians correctly identified baseline and posttreatment clinical photographs in 87% of cases. There were no serious adverse events or unanticipated adverse device effects.

Conclusions: The cryolipolysis conformable-surface applicator was safe and efficacious for treatment of lateral thigh fat. Clinical photographs and ultrasound results showed significant reduction in fat thickness, and noticeable reduction in undesirable "saddlebag" bulges. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3: Therapeutic.

© 2015 The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Inc. Reprints and permission: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Figures

Figure 1.

Each patient was placed in the lateral recumbent position, and the conformable-surface applicator was secured over the lateral thigh throughout the 120-minute unilateral cryolipolysis treatment.

Figure 2.

This 44-year-old woman underwent unilateral cryolipolysis of her right thigh to reduce subcutaneous fat. (A) Pretreatment and (B) 16 weeks posttreatment. She gained 2.7 lb since baseline. (Procedure performed by Dr Eric Bachelor, Innovation Research Center.)

Figure 3.

This 33-year-old woman underwent unilateral cryolipolysis of her right thigh to reduce subcutaneous fat. (A) Pretreatment and (B) 16 weeks posttreatment. She gained 1.0 lb since baseline. (Procedure performed by Dr Grant Stevens, Marina Plastic Surgery.)

Figure 4.

This 41-year-old woman underwent unilateral cryolipolysis of her left thigh to reduce subcutaneous fat. The photographic overlay of baseline and 8-week images shows visible reduction in lateral thigh curvature. The patient gained 5.0 lbs since baseline. (Procedure performed by Dr Grant Stevens, Marina Plastic Surgery.)