What Specific Body Areas Can Be Treated With Cryolipolysis? Fda-Approved Zones For Fat Reduction

Cryolipolysis is currently FDA-approved for fat reduction in nine distinct body areas. Primarily designed to target stubborn, localized pockets of fat, the treatment covers the thighs, abdomen, flanks (love handles), bra fat, upper and lower back fat, under the buttocks (banana rolls), upper arms, under the jaw, and under the chin.

The procedure is most effective on "pinchable" subcutaneous fat that has proven resistant to diet and exercise. While it offers FDA-cleared reduction for nine specific zones, it also serves a secondary function of diminishing the appearance of cellulite on the legs, buttocks, and arms.

Targeted Areas for Fat Reduction

The Midsection and Torso

The most common application for Cryolipolysis is the abdomen and the flanks, colloquially known as love handles.

It is also approved for treating bra fat and back fat (both upper and lower). These areas often contain soft, subcutaneous fat that is difficult to isolate through gym workouts alone.

The Lower Body

For the lower body, the treatment targets both the thighs and the area directly underneath the buttocks, often referred to as "banana rolls."

In addition to volume reduction, the primary reference notes that Cryolipolysis can be used to diminish the appearance of cellulite in these regions, specifically on the legs and buttocks.

Upper Body and Facial Contouring

The FDA approval extends to smaller, more delicate areas that define the silhouette. This includes the upper arms, addressing the area often called "bat wings."

For facial contouring, the treatment is approved for two distinct zones: under the chin (to reduce a double chin) and under the jawline. Treating these areas improves the definition of the neck and jaw profile.

Understanding the Limitations and Trade-offs

Subcutaneous vs. Visceral Fat

Cryolipolysis treats subcutaneous fat, which is the soft, pliable layer sitting directly beneath the skin.

It cannot treat visceral fat, which is the deep, firm fat surrounding the internal organs. If the abdomen is distended but firm to the touch, this treatment will likely be ineffective.

The "Pinchable" Requirement

A key indicator of success is the "pinch test." The device generally requires enough soft tissue to be drawn into an applicator or lie flat against a surface paddle.

If the fat cannot be easily pinched or isolated from the muscle, the area may not be suitable for this specific modality.

Making the Right Choice for Your Goal

To determine if Cryolipolysis is the correct approach for your physique, consider your primary objective:

If your primary focus is Facial Definition: The treatment specifically targets the submental (chin) and submandibular (jaw) areas to reduce fullness and sharpen the profile.
If your primary focus is Body Contouring: The procedure is best for reducing specific bulges on the abdomen, flanks, back, and thighs that impair clothing fit.
If your primary focus is Skin Texture: While primarily a fat-reduction tool, it can be utilized to improve the appearance of cellulite on the arms, legs, and buttocks.

Cryolipolysis is a tool for refinement and contouring, serving as a complement to a healthy lifestyle rather than a method for weight loss.

Summary Table:

Treatment Zone	Target Fat Type	Primary Goal
Midsection	Abdomen & Flanks	Removing stubborn love handles
Torso	Bra & Back Fat	Smoothing the silhouette
Lower Body	Thighs & Banana Rolls	Reducing volume & cellulite appearance
Facial & Neck	Under Chin & Jawline	Sharpening jawline definition
Upper Body	Upper Arms	Eliminating 'bat wings'

Elevate Your Clinic’s Contouring Results with BELIS

As a professional clinic or premium salon, your clients expect visible, medical-grade results. BELIS specializes in advanced Cryolipolysis and body sculpting solutions—including EMSlim and RF Cavitation—designed to eliminate stubborn subcutaneous fat with precision.

Our professional-grade systems empower your practice to offer the full range of FDA-cleared treatments for the abdomen, chin, arms, and more. Beyond fat reduction, BELIS provides a comprehensive portfolio including Diode Laser Hair Removal, Pico Lasers, and Microneedle RF to ensure your business stays at the forefront of aesthetic technology.

Ready to upgrade your equipment? Contact us today to discover how BELIS can help you achieve superior clinical outcomes and grow your premium clientele.