TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) -- There's a new, quick-fix weight loss treatment sweeping the country. Promoters say it's safe, affordable and so convenient you can do it on your lunch hour. Too good to be true? We find out in this Angie's List report.
Glendal Jones says she's pretty comfortable, sipping wine and checking email... while demonstrating the latest trend in fat reduction.
"I did my research and found that this CoolSculpting is going to be the best option for me. I wholly recommend it for anybody who wants to do it. It's not painful. I'm sitting here drinking a glass of wine getting things done," said Jones.
CoolSculpting is just one brand of Cryolipolysis. This FDA-approved treatment has only been in the U.S. for a few years. It promises a cheaper, quicker way to lose pounds, compared to liposuction and other invasive procedures.
"You want a certified technician and a well-regarded medical facility. And also, please keep in mind, this is not a cure-all. A healthy lifestyle, exercising, eating right, is what's going to, in the long run, help you maintain a good weight," said Angie's List founder Angie Hicks.
Denise Kaler is certified in CoolSculpting and has treated hundreds of patients over the past year.
"It's ideal for people that just have those stubborn spots. Maybe it's the love handles, a muffin top; inner thighs that they just don't like. You can count on about 30% reduction of fat, and once the fat is gone, it's gone for good," said Kaler, a health & wellness consultant.
Here's how it works -- a special applicator is strapped to the treatment area. It chills the skin and, over time, freezes and kills the fat cells in that area before they are naturally eliminated. There are no needles, no anesthesia and no recovery time.
"I'm all about achieving goals, and if this is what helps them achieve their goal, and they're still healthy, and they're still not having to put drugs in their body to do it, then why shouldn't I be behind it?" said fitness expert Art Brock.
The sessions take about an hour for each area treated, and it's about $750 per session. Getting rid of both love handles, for example, would require two applications. Results are noticeable within a few weeks following treatment with best results coming at 12 weeks.
Remember you can catch the latest Angie's List report every Tuesday morning on WTXL Sunrise.
