It’s nearly summer, and this time of year there is a noticeable influx of patients asking what their options are to control cellulite in time for bathing suit season. I’m sure most have heard about both non-invasive and surgical procedures available for cellulite control. There are several options and various procedures provide good results – but which one is right for you? First let’s talk about cellulite. Cellulite occurs when bands of connective tissue beneath your skin harden, while surrounding fat cells increase in size and push upward, resulting in the dreaded “cottage cheese” effect. Genetics, hormones, and weight change can contribute to one’s tendency to develop cellulite, but the cellulite itself is caused by fibrous bands pulling the surface of the skin inward to create dimples. For many, that means taking extra measure to cover up or wearing clothes that don’t necessarily reflect their own personal style. It doesn’t have to be that way.
One of the newest and most sought-after procedures for reducing the signs of cellulite is Cellfina™. What makes Cellfina™ different is it treats the primary structural cause of cellulite – the connective bands woven throughout fat in the thighs and buttocks. Cellfina™ is a minimally invasive procedure, using a small needle-sized device to break the cellulite-causing bands just beneath the surface of the skin. With Cellfina™ we have the option to treat several areas in one visit, all while using local anesthesia. One of the greatest benefits is the limited downtime most patients experience. It’s also the only FDA-approved treatment that shows results for 2 years.
Another option to significantly reduce cellulite anywhere on your body is Cellulaze™. A minimally invasive, laser-assisted procedure, Cellulaze™ is a new anti-cellulite treatment clinically proven to increase your skin’s natural thickness for a smoother, healthier look. Two very tiny incisions are made, each about the size of the tip of an ink pen. The Cellulaze™ laser fibers are threaded through a cannula (a very small tube) that is inserted through the incision site. The laser releases the bands of connective tissue and levels the larger bumps of fat. Meanwhile, the thermal energy produced by the laser stimulates collagen production (collagen is a group of natural proteins that give skin its youthful elasticity). During this process, some of the fat cells will liquefy, and they will be gently pressed out from beneath the skin. In total, the Cellulaze™ procedure typically takes between one and one-and-a-half hours to complete and involves very little downtime. Many patients are able to go back to their normal day-to-day routine of work and other activities almost immediately.
Some patients desire a reshaping of the contours, as well as cellulite reduction. Liposuction is used to reshape your body and remove fat, but doesn’t get rid of cellulite. In these cases, we will perform Liposuction to reshape the patient’s body, and follow up with a cellulite reduction treatment. Both Cellfina™ andCellulaze™ can be combined with Liposuction to achieve a slimmer and smoother result.
It’s not too late to get your summer-ready body! These procedures can produce noticeable and lasting results. Many of our patients have great success with little discomfort or downtime. My staff and I would love to hear from you and help you get the shape you desire in time for beach season. Call our office today at 516-364-4200 to schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss all of the options available to you.