cellulite reduction treatment

A Guide to Cellulite Reduction Treatments

Cellulite is a very common cosmetic problem that has historically been difficult to treat. Thanks to new non-surgical techniques, plastic surgeons can now more effectively target the structural causes of cellulite, helping to reduce characteristic bumps and restore a smoother, firmer texture of cellulite-affected skin. Choose from the links below to learn more about your options:

What causes cellulite?

Cellulite develops when fibrous bands called septums, which connect the skin to the underlying muscle fascia, contract irregularly, pull the skin down, and/or begin to break down, allowing the normal layer of subcutaneous fat to rise. This results in a wrinkled, or "cottage cheese" appearance.

An estimated 85 to 90% of adult women have cellulite, usually on the stomach, buttocks, and thighs. The aging process can worsen the appearance of cellulite as the skin loses its elasticity and is less able to withstand the uneven tension caused by fibrous bands. While obese individuals tend to have more visible cellulite, it is common even in very thin women, and weight loss rarely eliminates cellulite completely.

Am I a good candidate for cellulite reduction?

Although it is actually more common in women, the irregular appearance of boils bothers many women. If you are unhappy with the cellulite on your body, cellulite reduction can help you feel more confident about your appearance. In general, cellulite treatment is most effective when:

Are you annoyed by the effects of cellulite on your appearance and want to reduce it?
You are in good general health
Have realistic expectations - cellulite reduction treatments can reduce pitting, but not eliminate them completely

What are my treatment options?

Plastic surgeons use a variety of treatments to help patients reduce cellulite. While any are permanent, many can produce results that last a year or more. Below we've outlined the most common types of treatments and brand name applications - the availability of these or other treatments depends on what plastic surgeons offer in your area.

Laser therapy

Laser cellulite reduction (an FDA-approved treatment called cellulase) uses a small laser probe inserted through a small incision just under the skin. This laser heats the tissues under the surface of the skin, where it works:

Reveals some fibrous septum
Reducing the thickness of the subcutaneous fat layer
Stimulates collagen production
Improve skin texture and elasticity

Although the incisions are small, laser cellulite reduction is considered minimally invasive and can be safely performed by a qualified in-clinic provider under local anesthesia. The downtime is usually limited to one to two days. It is indicated that cellulose lasts for about a year, and patients usually achieve the desired result after one treatment.

Energy treatments without laser

Many treatments use radio frequency (RF), ultrasound, infrared light, or radial pulse energy to heat the skin, stimulate collagen production, and reduce cellulite. Depending on the specific treatment, energy-dependent cellulite reduction may also contribute to a slight reduction in sebum and/or relaxation of the fibrous barrier for smoother, more even skin. Current FDA-approved treatments include:

VelaShape® (RF and infrared light)
Venus Freeze® (Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields, Radio Frequency)
ThermiSmooth® (RF) body
Z-chamber wave (radial pulse therapy)

Energy-based cellulite treatments are given through the skin, so they are considered non-surgical and do not usually require a recovery period. However, a combination of treatments may be recommended for best results. Additionally, the results are temporary and require you to repeat the treatment every few months to maintain results.

Injectable Treatments (QWO®)

QW is the first injectable drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of cellulite. It contains enzymes that break down the collagen bands that cause dents and reduce the appearance of cellulite without surgery. QW is also thought to work by stimulating the production of more elastic septa and the redistribution of subcutaneous fat cells.

The number of QWO treatments you may need will vary depending on the treatment area and size. So, talk with your plastic surgeon to come up with a treatment plan. Results were obtained in clinical studies with 3 treatments 3 weeks apart. While bruising or other temporary side effects may occur in the treatment area, no downtime is required

As the longest-lasting cellulite treatment with results that last up to 3 years. Minimal downtime is required and results can be felt within days of treatment. Side effects include temporary pain and easy bruising, although serious side effects are very rare when treatment is provided by a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Massage and topical cellulite treatments

Special anti-cellulite massage techniques have been used for years. These typically use vacuum suction or a roller to "knead" the skin and subcutaneous fat. While some patients report positive effects, improvements are temporary and any smoothing effect will likely result from mild inflammation in the treatment area.

Most patients with cellulite have tried creams or lotions that promise to improve cellulite. While some medicinal products can help gradually increase collagen production for firmer skin, high-quality products are rarely effective in treating cellulite, which requires more extensive remodeling of fat, connective tissue, and collagen than a cream can. Cellulite creams are rarely a worthwhile investment.

Non-Surgical Body Sculpting Options: An Infographic Guide

Non-surgical body sculpting involves much more than just cellulite reduction. Today you have ways to reduce fat, rejuvenate vaginal tissues, tighten skin and remove unwanted hair. The following guide describes your options.