Regional Slimming

Regional slimming is the umbrella term for mostly non-surgical treatments that aim to reduce stubborn fat that remains in specific areas such as the waist, hips, abdomen, arms and legs despite diet and exercise, and to refine body contours. Methods such as cold and hot lipolysis, microwave, ultrasound, radiofrequency and lymphatic drainage are combined to suit each person. It is not a weight-loss method and suits people close to their ideal weight.

What causes localised fat?

Localised fat is fat that collects in certain areas and can appear even in people with a normal body mass index. Genetics largely determine where fat is stored: in women the hips, buttocks and thighs are affected more often, and in men the abdomen and waist. Hormonal changes, the period after childbirth, an inactive lifestyle, an unbalanced diet and a metabolism that slows with age also add to it. Because fat cells in these areas respond more slowly to diet and exercise, body measurements can stay out of proportion even after weight loss.

Which methods are used for regional slimming?

The methods can be grouped into three categories according to how they target fat tissue. The treatments in this category are:

Methods that target fat cells directly

• Cryolipolysis: affects fat cells through controlled cooling; at our clinic it is performed with Clatuu 360 Royal Shaping, and a single session is planned for many areas.
• Hot laser lipolysis: heats fat cells in a controlled way with laser energy; a session takes about 25 minutes per area.
• Onda Plus: uses Coolwaves technology to deliver microwave energy to the fat layer under the skin while cooling the skin surface.
• Scizer: targets fat cells with heat using macro-focused scanning ultrasound and supports localised slimming.

Methods that tighten and contour by heating the tissue

• Accent Prime: combines ultrasound and radiofrequency energy to heat the tissue at different depths; it is usually planned as a course of 4 sessions, once a week.
• Tanit: uses two-stage applicators to target fat tissue, fluid retention and skin tone in the same session; a course of 6 sessions, usually twice a week, is common.

Methods that support circulation and lymphatic flow

• Presso therapy: speeds up lymphatic circulation with sequential air pressure and helps remove excess fluid from the tissues.
• Lipostar: stimulates circulation and lymphatic flow with pulses of an electromagnetic field.
• Infrabaldan 3.0: an exercise-based treatment of about 40 minutes in which you pedal lying down in an infrared-light environment.

How is the right method chosen?

At our clinic in Etiler, the choice is made at the medical examination by assessing the thickness and location of the fat, skin elasticity and whether fluid retention or cellulite is present. Cryolipolysis may be preferred for areas with a pinchable fat layer, and heat-based methods for flatter surfaces; if fluid build-up is marked, treatments that support circulation are added to the plan.

Methods are often combined. If muscle tone has also decreased, muscle building treatments can be considered, and if an orange-peel look is the main concern, cellulite treatment options are assessed. If a larger amount of fat needs to be removed at once, a surgical option can be discussed.

When will I see results, and how can I maintain them?

With methods that target fat cells, results appear gradually. The body clears the affected fat cells naturally, mainly through the lymphatic system, and this process usually takes 2–3 months. With treatments that support circulation, a feeling of lightness and reduced swelling are often noticed during the course. Results vary from person to person.

The affected fat cells generally do not regenerate, but the remaining cells in the area can grow if you gain weight. Drinking plenty of water, staying active and eating a balanced diet during the process therefore both speed up and protect the result, and you can also get support from a dietitian during this time.

Who should avoid it, and when should you see a doctor?

Treatment is not performed, or a medical assessment is needed first, in the following situations:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Electronic implants such as a pacemaker, or metal implants in the treatment area
• A hernia, recent surgery, an open wound or an active skin condition in the treatment area
• Uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease or ongoing cancer treatment
• For cryolipolysis, cold-related conditions such as cold urticaria; for presso therapy, deep vein thrombosis and heart failure

If you notice painful, red swelling in one leg, see a doctor without delay before any treatment. If you have unexplained rapid weight gain or widespread swelling, the underlying cause needs to be investigated first.

Frequently asked questions

Does regional slimming help you lose weight?

No. These treatments are not a weight-loss method; they refine body contours by reducing fat tissue in specific areas. The change shows in your measurements and shape rather than on the scales.

Are the results permanent?

With methods that target fat cells, the affected cells generally do not regenerate, but the remaining fat cells can grow with weight gain. Keeping the result depends on a balanced diet and regular activity.

How many sessions are needed?

It depends on the method. With cryolipolysis and hot laser lipolysis, a single session may be enough for many areas, while device courses are usually planned as 4–10 sessions. The exact number is decided at the examination and varies from person to person.

Are the treatments painful?

Most methods need no anaesthesia. Depending on the treatment, you feel cold, warmth, pressure or a massage-like sensation, which is usually well tolerated, and you can return to daily life after the session.

This content is for information only and does not replace a medical examination. To find out which method suits your localised fat, please get in touch with us.