Cellulite Removal Solutions

Who needs a cellulite procedure?

The main cause of cellulite is an accumulation of body fat that causes the fibrous bands under the skin to pull down, giving the skin a dimpled, 'orange peel' look.

The Anatomy of Cellulite

Research concludes cellulite appears more often in women than it does men. Women may begin developing cellulite deposits from adolescence well into their adult life. Although cellulite appears more frequently in women, men are not immune. Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as poor diet and excess weight can contribute to cellulite buildup in men-mainly around the lower abdominal area.

An exercise program such as strength training or aerobic exercises can assist with skin tightening and reducing cellulite appearance. Diet and exercise lifestyle modifications, however, are entirely dependent on consistency.

There are three main classifications of cellulite:

• Flaccid Cellulite (Soft Cellulite): Sags the skin with a wavey, jelly-like appearance. It tends to be most noticeable in the arms, legs, belly, and other areas where there is an accumulation of fat. It can increase with age and/or weight gain.
• Compact Cellulite (Hard Cellulite): Caused by irregularities in the skin that create grooves in the thighs, glutes, and hips. This type of cellulite clings to muscle, does not move, and becomes hard and sensitive to touch.
• Edematous Cellulite: A difficult type of cellulite to treat due to a combination of poor circulation and fluid retention. Typically exists in the legs, especially the thighs and knees. This leads to loss of leg contours due to swelling. Commonly seen in women in their 20s and 30s.

Unfortunately, sometimes despite weight loss, a healthy diet, exercise, and good lifestyle choices, areas of stubborn cellulite can persist. This is where the professionals can help.

Of note, in some cases individuals experiencing hard or edematous cellulite should seek treatment in a timely manner due to the potential health risks associated with the circulatory issues represented by these types of cellulite.

What can you expect from a cellulite procedure?

Reducing and controlling cellulite buildup through diet and exercise takes time and willpower. And considering the rate at which individuals lose weight can differ, some may see results sooner than others.

Non-surgical procedures that utilize gels work to thicken the skin decreasing the appearance of dimples. Energy-based therapies, such as ultrasound wave therapy, work to break apart the fat layers deep under the skin. Both of these techniques typically require regular maintenance.

Surgical procedures completely remove the cellulite, but come with downtime, side effects, and ultimately may not completely improve the dimpling of the skin. In some cases treatments like liposuction may actually worsen the dimpling. It is also important to note that surgical procedures may remove cellulite, but the fat accumulations will continue to be subject to aging, diet, exercise, and hormonal changes.

Given the formation of cellulite is a lifelong process, most procedures can not entirely guarantee permanent results, and in most cases multiple and ongoing treatments will be necessary.

When should you seek a cellulite procedure?

When you should consider treatment is entirely dependent on your desired personal aesthetic. We all have cellulite, and let’s be honest, it bothers some of us more than others. If you keep active, are someone who is at a stable and maintainable weight, and are in overall good health, but are still frustrated by stubborn areas of cellulite you may benefit from a professional procedure.

As previously mentioned, individuals experiencing hard cellulite build-up should seek treatment in a timely manner due to the possibility of an underlying circulatory concern.

Why should you seek a cellulite procedure?

Seeking out professional assistance with correcting and managing cellulite is mostly a decision based on your desired personal aesthetic. A combination of lifestyle changes (think: diet and exercise and ditching cigarettes) in combination with professional procedures can provide significant and lasting benefits.

If you feel you would benefit from the physical and emotional benefits a cellulite removal procedure can provide, there are an array of different techniques available. Procedures in the form of massages, creams, surgeries, and even energy-assisted therapies can all correct and combat cellulite. To determine the best treatment for your unique concern, consult with a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist.