Cryolipolysis and associated health outcomes, adverse events and satisfaction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Cryolipolysis is a nonsurgical adiposity reduction treatment that is increasing in popularity globally. The aim of this paper was to carry out a systematic review with meta-analysis on cryolipolysis and associated health outcomes, adverse events (AE) and patient satisfaction.

Methods: Major databases were searched from inception until April 4, 2024. Meta-analysis was performed using random-effect models to calculate the pooled effects size and 95% confidence interval (CI) of each finding. The systematic review protocol was registered on PROSPERO, CRD-42024548077.

Results: A total of 30 studies were included, including 3158 participants. The result of meta-analyses showed reduced body mass index (mean differences [MD] = −1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] −2.98, −0.62, p = 0.0003), waist-to-hip ratio (MD = −0.09, 95% CI −0.16, −0.02, p = 0.001), mean abdominal circumference (cm) (MD = −3.56, 95% CI −4.98, −2.15, p = 0.000001), and mean suprailiac fat thickness (FT) (mm) (MD = −5.22, 95% CI −9.03, −1.42, p = 0.0007), 12 weeks after cryolipolysis as compared with baseline values. The satisfaction rate was 80.4% and the AE of cryolipolysis was 49.5% for numbness, 44.5% for erythema, 30.5% for edema, 28.8% for pain, 25.4% for sensitivity, 15.2% for tingling, and 2% for hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion: In the present study, it was found that cryolipolysis was associated with a reduction in the number of adiposity parameters at 3 months follow-up. A relatively high level of minor AEs was reported; however, patient satisfaction was high suggesting that the treatment is well tolerated.