What Is PAH in Fat Freezing? Should Salon Owners Be Worried?
- Tanya White
- Jul 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 7
If you're running or launching a body sculpting salon in Australia, you've probably heard whispers about PAH — the rare side effect linked to fat freezing. Some clients are Googling it, and a few salon owners are quietly wondering…
“Should I be worried about PAH?”
Let’s break it down clearly and honestly — with facts, not fear. Because understanding PAH (Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia) is the first step to confidently protecting your clients, your business, and your peace of mind.
🔍 What Is PAH?
PAH stands for Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia.
It’s an extremely rare side effect of Cryolipolysis (fat freezing) where, instead of shrinking, the fat cells harden and enlarge, usually becoming more visible about 6–12 weeks after treatment.
It doesn’t cause harm to the body or organs, but it may require medical intervention (usually liposuction) to correct. PAH is non-life-threatening, but understandably worrying for both clients and salon owners when they don’t know the facts.
📊 How Common Is PAH in Australia?
Recent data shows that the risk of PAH is between 1 in 4,000 and 1 in 20,000 treatments.
It’s most commonly reported in North America — particularly linked to older, high-suction cryolipolysis machines. In Australia, the risk remains very low, especially when:
✅ The operator is properly trained
✅ Correct suction levels and treatment intervals are followed
✅ The machine is TGA-compliant and safe for salon use
💬 Should You Stop Offering Fat Freezing Because of PAH?
No — but you must be educated, prepared, and protected.
PAH should not scare you away from offering one of the most in-demand and profitable treatments in the industry. Instead, it should motivate you to get trained properly, use trusted machines, and know how to screen and support your clients.
Just like any treatment in beauty or health — knowledge is your best insurance.
🔒 How to Protect Your Clients (and Your Business) from PAH Risk:
Here’s what I teach all my students inside the Bodi Slim Fat Freezing & ContourIQ™ Training:
✅ Use a TGA-compliant fat freezing machine — lower suction, safer handling
✅ Space out treatments (8–12 weeks minimum between sessions)
✅ Avoid overtreating the same area
✅ Monitor results over time
✅ Always include PAH disclosure in your consultation and consent form
✅ Educate your client honestly — don’t hide it, explain it
📝 Should You Mention PAH in Your Consent Form?
Absolutely, yes.
Including PAH in your client’s consent form shows that you:
💡 Are informed and transparent
🛡️ Are legally protecting your business
💬 Are building client trust through honesty, not avoidance
Inside my training, I provide a professional salon consent form with PAH already included, so you can confidently offer this treatment knowing everything is covered — legally and ethically.
You’ll also receive pre- and post-care templates and full support to help you set your salon up the right way.
💬 What Should You Say to a Client Who Asks About PAH?
“Thanks for asking! PAH is extremely rare, and I’m fully trained in prevention and treatment safety. I use TGA-compliant equipment and provide full consultation and monitoring to ensure your results are safe, even, and effective.”
If a client is nervous, explain that PAH is not dangerous, very unlikely, and that you’ve done all the training required to minimise that risk. That reassurance alone can make a client feel calm and confident.
💻 Ready to Train, Protect, and Grow?
If you're thinking of offering fat freezing — or already are — and want to be fully trained, compliant, and confident…
Inside the course, you’ll get:
✅ Certified Training
✅ Consent Forms (with PAH included)
✅ Pre & Post Care Templates
✅ Safety Guidelines
✅ TGA-Compliant Equipment Support
✅ Ongoing Mentoring + VIP Access
✅ Peace of Mind for You and Your Clients
You're not doing this alone. I'm here to help you every step of the way — from machine setup to client care and everything in between. Let’s protect your business and elevate your salon the right way 💕
Want more expert tips and tricks on Body Contouring Salon Start-Up?
Meet Tanya White, the author of this blog and a Nationally Accredited body contouring trainer with over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry. Tanya runs Australia’s #1 online training academy, where she helps aspiring salon owners, beauty professionals, and entrepreneurs master the art of body contouring. She also offers personalised mentoring, certified training programs, and business support through her online courses. Created of the ContourIQ™️ technique, Australia’s first trademarked body contouring method.
Tanya is a nationally accredited trainer and has completed Training and Assessment (TAE40116). She has trained over 700+ students across Australia. Whether you’re looking to level up your skills with expert guidance or start your own body contouring business, Tanya’s got you covered!
About Tanya White
Tanya White is the proud owner of Australia’s #1 Body Contouring Training Academy, Bodi Slim. With over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry, she has trained more than 700+ students across Australia. Tanya is passionate about helping beauty professionals thrive by providing expert training and mentorship in body contouring techniques. Her dedication to sharing knowledge and supporting her students ensures that every client receives safe, high-quality treatments.
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