The Skinny
Average Recovery
1 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Injected
Surgical
No
Cost
$450 - $1200
The Specifics
What is Qwo™?
Qwo™, by Endo International PLC, is a new prescription medication injectable solution for moderate to severe cellulite of the buttocks of adult women that has recently been granted FDA approval. Qwo™ is the first injectable to gain United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for cellulite treatment.
The Anatomy of Cellulite
Qwo™ is composed of the active ingredient collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes. Qwo™ is typically a series of injections spaced three weeks apart. An improved appearance of cellulite can be expected after a few injections. Common side effects of Qwo™ include injection site bruising and discoloration in the treatment area.
Qwo™ works by targeting the root cause of cellulite. The primary contributing factor is believed to be collagen fibers, which through enzymatic destruction can release the tether of fibrous connective tissue causing dimpling and cellulite.
Unlike Cellfina and Cellulaze, Qwo™ does not use any surgical techniques so it is minimally invasive with little to no recovery time. Endo Aesthetics press release touts Qwo™ as a game changer for the treatment of cellulite as it is the first FDA approved injectable. A conversation with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon can determine if this prescription medicine is appropriate for an individual candidate.
What cosmetic concerns does a Qwo™ procedure treat?
Who is the ideal candidate for a Qwo™ procedure?
The ideal candidate for a Qwo™ injection is in generally good health, and has moderate to severe cellulite in their buttocks. Qwo™ is not recommended for those whose weight is unstable, those who would medically benefit from weight loss, those with bleeding problems, those on antiplatelet medications, or those with excessive skin laxity.
What is the average recovery associated with a Qwo™ procedure?
There is no downtime associated with Qwo™ injections. Bruising and discoloration at the injection site is common, but resolves within a few days. Injections are intended to be spaced 21 days apart. Qwo™ can be administered in an aesthetic healthcare practitioner's office.
What are the potential side effects of a Qwo™ procedure?
Possible side effects following a Qwo™ procedure include pain, redness, bruising, soreness, hardness in the treated area, and itching. Severe anaphylaxis is also possible.
What can someone expect from the results of a Qwo™ procedure?
The results of a Qwo™ procedure will become visible over a series of multiple injections spaced three weeks apart. Most patients averaged three injections for satisfactory results.
What is the average cost of a Qwo™ procedure?
The average cost of Qwo™ is $450 to $1,200 per treatment session. The actual cost will be dependent upon insurance, location, board certified plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the treatment.
Pros
- Minimally Invasive
- Reduced Appearance Of Cellulite
Cons
- New To Market
- Limited Clinical Trials
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Qwo™ is an injectable prescription medication to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a Qwo™ treatment:
The Takeaway
Qwo™ is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive prescription injectable for the treatment of cellulite that destroys collagen fibrous bands, releases connective tissue, and smooths cellulite appearance in the buttocks.
