AbstractBackground and ObjectiveCryolipolysis is a unique non‐invasive method for the selective reduction of fat cells with controlled, localized cooling. It is important, therefore, to understand the potential efficacy and safety of this new procedure for fat layer reduction.Materials and MethodsA review of the literature associated with cryolipolysis was performed to evaluate the findings from pre‐clinical and clinical studies with respect to the mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety.ResultsCryolipolysis has demonstrated efficacy in both human and animal studies. Histology findings also confirm the selective reduction of fat in both humans and animals, with evidence of a gradual thinning of the fat layer over a period of two to four months. Importantly, cryolipolysis has not produced any significant adverse side effects in studies to date and any noted effects have been minor and temporary.ConclusionAlthough the mechanism of action for cryolipolysis is not yet completely understood, the efficacy and safety of this non‐invasive procedure for fat layer reduction has been demonstrated in the studies available to data. Further studies willl assist in identifying the mechanism and elucidate the full potential of this technology to perform safe, non‐invasive fat reduction for areas of local fat accumulation. Lasers Surg. Med. 41:703–708, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.