Controversy Surrounds Popular Beauty Treatment

A recent report by The New York Times claims that the popular cosmetic treatment CoolSculpting may pose a higher risk for a serious side effect than previously thought. The risk of a possible side effect of disfigurement only correctable by surgery may have been previously underreported. The technology, which uses a technique called "cryolipolysis," may cause a serious side effect known as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, which is when some of the fat cells enlarge, harden and sometimes take the shape of the applicator. Allergan Aesthetics, the parent company of Zeltiq Aesthetics, which markets and licenses the CoolSculpting devices, says the treatments are able to "freeze" fat away, citing in 2010 that the treatment is a safe and painless alternative to other fat reduction services, like liposuction.