Histological and immunohistochemical effects of dynamic plate cryolipolysis on localized abdominal adiposity: a case study with multimodal cellular analysis

BACKGROUND: Dynamic plate cryolipolysis (DPC) has emerged as a non-invasive alternative technique for treating localized adiposity, particularly in anatomically challenging areas. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of DPC on the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues of the abdominal region through histological and immunohistochemical analyses. METHODS: Four volunteers underwent distinct protocols of DPC (10, 20 or 30 min) or static cryolipolysis (20 min). DPC protocols were performed at −5°C, followed by 3 min of reperfusion and manual massage. The right infraumbilical region was treated, while the contralateral side served as control. Samples were collected during elective abdominoplasty and analyzed for biomarkers of apoptosis, inflammation, fibroblast activity, collagen remodeling, heat stress response, and metabolic or hormonal modulation. RESULTS: DPC induced adipocyte apoptosis, confirmed by detection of caspase3, COX-2, and macrophage (CD68 and CD163) expression, fibroblast activation (FGF2 and FGFR1), and a predominance of type I collagen deposition. Additionally, modulation of metabolic and hormonal markers was observed, including reduced PPAR-γ and aromatase expression, and partial UCP1 expression, suggesting metabolic modulation with potential thermogenic effects. CONCLUSIONS: DPC induced significant and controlled cellular responses, supporting its safety and therapeutic potential. Beyond aesthetic applications, these findings point to broader clinical implications. Larger-scale studies are required to validate and expand these findings.