Fat Freezing & Skin Tightening: Every Question Answered

Including this month’s offer at BTI Maroochydore

If you have searched “does fat freezing actually work” at midnight while staring at an area that will not budge no matter what you do, you are not alone. It is one of the most common questions people ask before booking a treatment.

Below, we have answered the questions BTI clients ask us most, backed by the clinical evidence behind fat freezing and skin tightening, and explained why combining the two gets a better result than either treatment on its own.

Does fat freezing actually work?

Yes, when it is backed by the right technology, proper consultation and stacked with protocols . 

Fat freezing works through cryolipolysis, a process that uses controlled cooling to target and break down fat cells while leaving the skin around them untouched. The science has been studied since the early 2010s. One early clinical trial recorded an average 22 percent reduction in fat layer thickness four months after treatment, with independent reviewers correctly picking out the after photos 82 percent of the time.

At BTI, our CoolTech fat freezing technology works on this same cooling principle, and every session is trained and supervised by Dani, our senior clinician, who has performed hundreds of treatments across our Sunshine Coast clinics.

How much does fat freezing cost?

Pricing depends on the area being treated and how many sessions your plan needs, so we would rather give you an honest number in a consultation than a vague range online. Depending on the treatment area, in many cases, only one to two sessions is needed.

What we can tell you is that this month gives you extra value either way: spend $600 or more on fat freezing at our Maroochydore clinic and skin tightening and cellulite reduction is included at no extra cost.

If budget is the only thing holding you back, Afterpay, ZipPay and TLC Health Finance let you spread your investment over time.

How long does it take to see results, and how long do they last?

Fat freezing is not instant, and that is actually a good sign.

Once the treated fat cells are damaged by the cold, your body clears them gradually through its own immune process over the following weeks. Most people start noticing a difference from around three weeks, with the full result visible by eight to twelve weeks.

Long-term, results have been shown to hold steady for years as long as your weight stays stable, since the treated fat cells do not come back.

Skin tightening builds the same way: collagen production increases gradually, so a course of sessions gives a more lasting result than one visit.

What are the disadvantages of fat freezing?

The honest answer matters more than the sales pitch here.

Fat freezing can cause temporary redness, numbness, some mild swelling or tenderness in the treated area for a few days.

It is gradual rather than instant, so it is not the right fit if you want a dramatic same-day change. It is also not a weight-loss tool. It is designed for stubborn, pinchable fat pockets rather than overall body weight.

A rare complication called paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, where the treated area actually firms and enlarges, has been documented in clinical literature, which is one reason treatment plans should always be built around a proper consultation rather than a one-size-fits-all package.

Will fat freezing leave my skin loose or saggy?

This is one of the biggest worries people raise, and it is a fair one. Clinical research on cryolipolysis patients has found no significant loss of skin elasticity after treatment, and some studies have gone further, finding molecular evidence that cryolipolysis can actually stimulate collagen production in the treated area.

That said, if you are already concerned about skin laxity, particularly around the tummy, arms or thighs, pairing fat freezing with radiofrequency skin tightening (ONDA Coolwaves) gives your skin extra support while the fat layer reduces underneath it.

What is Onda, and how does it tighten skin and reduce cellulite?

Onda Coolwaves is the technology behind this month’s free upgrade, and it is what we use for skin tightening and cellulite reduction at BTI.

It is a non-surgical treatment that uses controlled microwave energy, delivered at 2.45GHz, to reach the fat layer and connective tissue beneath the skin without affecting the surface.

Where it stands apart from older radiofrequency devices is that it works on three concerns in the one session: breaking down stubborn fat cells, smoothing the dimpled appearance of cellulite by working on the fibrous bands that cause it, and stimulating collagen and elastin to firm the skin above.

Most clients describe the sensation as a warm, comfortable massage, with no anaesthetic, no pain and no downtime.

Onda is TGA-approved and only ever performed by our trained clinicians.

A typical plan runs to 3 or 4 sessions spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart, with results building gradually across that course. It works well on the abdomen, thighs, upper arms, back and under the chin, which is exactly why it pairs so well with fat freezing this month: one treatment reduces the fat layer, the other supports the skin and tissue around it.

Why combine fat freezing with skin tightening?

Because each treatment is solving a different part of the same problem. Fat freezing reduces the fat layer underneath the skin.

Skin tightening uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of skin, encouraging collagen and elastin production so the tissue above stays firm as the fat reduces.

A 2020 clinical study combining radiofrequency with cryolipolysis in a single session found the combination was both safe and effective, with good improvement reported in the large majority of patients reviewed.

Clinics that offer both treatments typically recommend skin tightening either shortly before fat freezing to prep the tissue, or in a follow-up course afterwards to refine the result, which is exactly why we have paired the two this month.

Want to see what each treatment actually looks like in session? We have included demonstration videos below showing how the applicators work and how quickly clients start noticing change.

Is this a safer alternative to surgery or liposuction?

For people who want results without going under the knife, yes. Both fat freezing and skin tightening are non-invasive, with no anaesthetic, no incisions and no recovery time.

Clinical literature on cryolipolysis specifically describes it as an accessible alternative to liposuction, with high patient satisfaction reported across studies.

The trade-off is speed: surgery can deliver a more dramatic result in a single procedure, but it carries surgical risk, anaesthesia and weeks of recovery. Fat freezing and skin tightening ask you to be patient over a course of sessions, in exchange for zero downtime and a far lower risk profile.

Who should avoid fat freezing?

Fat freezing is not suitable for everyone, which is exactly why BTI starts every new client with a free consultation rather than booking straight into a package.

People who are pregnant, have certain cold-sensitivity conditions, or have open wounds or skin infections in the treatment area are generally advised against it, and some specific medical conditions may rule it out altogether.

Your BTI consultant will run through your health history before recommending any treatment plan, so nothing gets booked that is not right for your body.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on your goals, but most people need more than one.

For fat freezing, a single session can show change, though many clients choose a second pass on a stubborn area once they see early results.

For skin tightening, published studies on radiofrequency treatments have generally used between four and ten sessions to see meaningful improvement in skin tone and the appearance of cellulite.

Your consultation will map out a realistic plan based on your specific areas, rather than a generic number pulled from a price list.

What are BTI clients saying about combining fat freezing and skin tightening?

Evidence is one thing. Hearing it from people who have actually done the treatment is another. Here is what BTI clients say in their own words.

“For years, I’ve struggled with stubborn areas on my lower tummy and inner thighs that just wouldn’t budge, even when I was at my goal weight. Surgery was something I dreamed of for a long time but felt was financially out of reach. Deciding to finally do this was a huge investment in myself. From the moment I arrived, the lovely team of ladies made me feel completely at ease and confident that I was in capable hands. Seven weeks in, I’m already feeling so much more comfortable in my skin and certain that I’ll achieve the best possible outcome.”

Jenny H

“This is my second treatment of fat freezing. I did an inquiry to get actual surgery done and it was gonna be way too expensive. And it’s fantastic. It’s absolutely worked. Better than cutting yourself up. No scarring, no downtime.”

Sara C

“I had the cool tech fat freezing for my saggy baggy tuck shop lady arms. After 1 treatment I started to notice a definite reduction and improvement in the look. With some weight bearing exercises they are still improving.”

Julie M

“I now have a flat tummy for the first time in my life, at 69! I will always use BTI for any treatments I wish to have.”

Vikki 

“I cannot rave about how great the fat freezing works. Instant results! Loved the results so much I booked another session 3 days later on a different area.”

Karen C

“I tried the fat freezing and Teslaformer and saw improvements. Absolutely love the staff and feel so relaxed when I come here.”

Natalie

Results vary from person to person. Individual outcomes depend on your treatment plan, consistency, and lifestyle factors.

Quick FAQ

Does fat freezing hurt?

Most clients feel intense cold and a strong pulling sensation from the suction applicator for the first few minutes, which settles into mild numbness for the rest of the session. No anaesthetic is needed.

Can I treat more than one area in a visit?

Yes, depending on your goals and the time available. Your clinician will map this out with you in your consultation.

Is this month’s offer available at Noosa?

This particular offer is running at our Maroochydore clinic only. Ask our team about current offers at your local clinic.

What if I’m not sure which treatment is right for me?

Book a free consultation. Our team look at your goals and build a plan around them, rather than guessing from a price list.

Is there anything I need to do before or after treatment?

Staying hydrated and limiting alcohol around your sessions supports your body’s natural process of clearing treated fat cells. Your clinician will run through specific aftercare on the day.

Have more questions about permanent fat reduction or skin tightening? Visit our FAQ page

Results vary. Individual outcomes depend on treatment plan, consistency, and lifestyle factors.

How do payment plans work at BTI?

If the only thing standing between you and this month’s offer is upfront cost, BTI accepts three ways to spread the payment, so you don’t have to wait to get started.

Afterpay

Afterpay splits your treatment cost into 4 equal payments over 6 weeks. You pay 25 percent at the time of booking, and the remaining 3 payments come out automatically every fortnight from your card. It’s interest-free as long as payments are made on time, late payments can incur fees. You’ll need to be 18 or over, an Australian resident with a regular income, and approval is generally instant through the Afterpay app.

ZipPay

ZipPay works more like an account than a one-off payment plan. Once you’re approved, you get access to a credit limit you can use for your treatment and pay back on a schedule that suits you, weekly, fortnightly or monthly. It’s interest-free, and the small monthly account fee is waived if you clear your balance by the due date each month. Approval is subject to a credit check.

TLC Health Finance

TLC Health Finance is a personal loan built specifically for medical and lifestyle expenses, and it’s a good option if you’re financing a larger treatment plan rather than a single session. Loan amounts generally start above $2,000, the application is completed online in a few minutes, and most applicants hear back within 24 to 48 hours.

Approval and your specific rate depend on your individual credit assessment. You can start an application directly here: app.tlc.com.au/apply

Whichever option you choose, your clinician will always confirm the total cost of your treatment plan before you commit, so there are no surprises. Fees, rates and eligibility criteria for Afterpay, ZipPay and TLC are set by those providers and can change, so it’s worth checking current terms at checkout or on their site before you apply.

References

Kania, B.F. et al. (2023). Cryolipolysis: a promising nonsurgical technique for localized fat reduction. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Stevens, W.G. et al. (2015). Cryolipolysis for safe and effective inner thigh fat reduction. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine.

Alster, T.S. and Tehrani, M. (2008). Clinical, laboratory, and MRI analysis of cellulite treatment with a unipolar radiofrequency device. Dermatologic Surgery.

Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. Combined monopolar radiofrequency and targeted pressure energy for the treatment and improvement of cellulite appearance on multiple body parts.