Cryolipolysis (CLATUU) — Principles and Validation Process
Cryolipolysis is a body-contouring treatment that reduces fat without surgery by taking advantage of the fact that fat cells break down naturally when cooled under specific conditions. Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery in Apgujeong performs this treatment using CLATUU (CRYOLIPO II), a medical device officially approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) for "non-invasive fat reduction."
This article summarizes the principles of cryolipolysis, the treatment process, and the device's validation process (preclinical testing).
What Is Cryolipolysis?
This is a treatment that reduces fat without surgery by taking advantage of the tendency of fat cells to break down naturally when cooled under specific conditions. It may be worth considering if you're concerned about localized fat that doesn't respond well to diet management, though suitability varies depending on individual condition.
What Is the Mechanism Behind Fat Reduction?
A specialized applicator is attached to the skin, drawing the fat layer in with negative pressure and cooling it to below-freezing temperatures for 30 to 60 minutes. As blood circulation in the area decreases, the cooled fat cells tend to undergo mild panniculitis before progressing toward apoptosis (programmed cell death).
- Reduced blood circulation in fat tissue + sustained low-temperature cooling of fat tissue
- Induction of apoptosis (programmed cell death) in fat cells
- Continuous non-invasive fat reduction over approximately 3 months
When Do Results Begin to Appear?
Since fat cells are gradually and naturally reduced over roughly three months following treatment, changes appear over several months rather than immediately. The extent and speed of change vary by individual.
What Validation Process Did CLATUU Go Through?
The CLATUU device received official approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) for the purpose of "non-invasive fat reduction," and the following preclinical validation data has been presented:
- Thermo-graphic camera comparison
- 3D contour camera comparison
- Ultrasound comparison
- Adipocyte Oil Red O staining comparison
Which Areas Can Be Treated?
The treatment can reportedly be applied to areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, and back, and can be performed without anesthesia. However, whether the treatment is suitable for you and how it is carried out may vary depending on individual condition, so a consultation is required. Information about the operating physician is available under About the Director, and any questions can be directed to Book a Consultation.
Consultation Information
Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery (Apgujeong, Seoul) · 2F Apgujeong Building, 842 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · 02-3416-0070 (after hours 070-4027-0070) · Book a Consultation
This article is for informational purposes only. The effects and recovery period of surgeries and procedures may vary by individual. All medical procedures carry the possibility of side effects, so please consult thoroughly with a specialist beforehand.
Treatment Details
The materials below are treatment information from the previous website (surgery.co.kr). Before-and-after results may vary by individual, and all medical procedures carry the possibility of side effects.
