Background: Cryolipolysis is characterized by localized and controlled cooling of the subcutaneous adipose tissue, in a non-invasive way, causing a localized panniculitis, followed by adipocyte death by apoptosis and, consequently, a decrease in adipose tissue in the treated area.
Aim(s): To evaluate the scientific evidence and methodological qualities about effects, adverse reactions, and level of satisfaction of cryolipolysis for the reduction of subcutaneous adipose tissue.
Methods: A systematic review was carried out according to the PRISMA recommendation. Searches were conducted in different databases. We included studies that used a randomized control and self-control design and were carried out in humans. Articles published in English and Portuguese were screened, with no time limit regarding the year of publication. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Cochrane Rob2 scale.
Results: Of 381 articles, seven were considered eligible for inclusion. After applying the Cochrane Rob2 scale, five studies were included in the final sample. Most studies showed significant results for cryolipolysis in reducing localized fat. The incorporation of a dietary program into the treatment was shown to contribute to a significant improvement in the lipid profile and liver enzymes, which does not happen when cryolipolysis is applied in isolation. Rare adverse effects have been identified, but never persisting beyond a month.
Conclusions: Cryolipolysis is an effective technique for reducing localized fat, safe, and well tolerated, with most participants satisfied at the end of the treatment. However, more randomized controlled studies should be carried out, since there is a limited number of articles with good methodological quality.
Keywords: adverse effects; cryotherapy; lipodystrophy; subcutaneous fat; systematic review.
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