Severe Pain Unusual Response Following Cryolipolysis

Cryolipolysis is recognized as the most successful non-invasive treatment of localized fatty deposits currently available. To date, this treatment is said to be associated only with a mild burning sensation and some numbness, both of which are transient. Indeed, the great majority of patients have very minimal sequelae, little or no downtime, and predictable results.  I am reporting in this blog that, in two cases, pain has been described by patients to be severe and persistent, for at least several weeks.

While these cases are being investigated, this report is being released to alert treating physicians about the very uncommon possibility that in the immediate post-cryolipolysis period, painful symptoms in the areas treated can be enough to require narcotics, anti-inflammatories, and possibly steroid treatment. Ironically, should such treatments be necessary, they will likely limit the benefits of the cryolipolysis undertaken.

The cause of symptoms in these cases is as yet unknown. It could be related to inflammatory changes within the fascia, the nerves, or the fat itself. This does not appear to be ischemic. There was no associated purpura or sign of superficial skin freeze artifact. In one case at a 2 month follow up visit, the abdominal contour improvement was quite significant, as noted by the patient and as evidenced photographically, and the appearance of the skin was entirely normal. This patient had not received any steroids, anti-inflammatories, or antibiotics.

Full information about the second case is still pending, but given the similar stormy nature of both post operative periods, is referrenced in this blog.

Cryolipolysis remains a safe, comfortable and effective treatment in the great majority of treated patients.  It should be noted that many established treatments can be associated with idiosyncratic responses, and such problems should not dissuade us from using this reliable non-invasive technology.

We should collect data on similar cases,  investigate their cause further, and hopefully assist in their avoidance for the future.

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