Recently, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, revealed the origin and treatment of pesky cellulite. Though not a lot of research has been done to understand cellulite, it is highly possible that it is an actual disease, as it affects 85-98% of women past puberty. Fat from areas of cellulite behaves differently in that it is more resistant to being absorbed during stress, when compared to fat in other parts of the body. Cellulite is found most often on the abdomen and thighs, even in physically fit people, being a source of embarrassment for millions of women.

Weight loss has long been advocated as a method to treat cellulite, but the result is variable in different individuals. On average, cellulite improves with weight loss, but some people may experience worsening of cellulite. Liposuction has been used in attempts to treat cellulite, and even though it can reduce localized fatty deposits, it does not appear to have an effect on cellulite.

However, there are some interesting new treatments that are available to treat stubborn cellulite successfully. Radiofrequency devices are one of the newest techniques used to improve cellulite. Thermage® is a non-invasive treatment that can tighten skin and stimulate your body to make healthier collagen. The procedure uses radiofrequency technology called ThermaCool® that has been clinically proven to tighten and gently lift skin all over the body, including flabby arms, hands, and legs. Thermage®  is now approved by the FDA for improving cellulite. In only one treatment, patients report smoothing of dimples on the thighs and buttocks with lasting results! 

Another procedure I offer to my patients is the Cellulite Reduction, in which Mesotherapy and non-ablative lasers can improve the appearance of cellulite without the need for surgery. Also, topical creams such as Dr. Michelle Copeland’s Rewind Age-Defying Cream in combination with the Bath/Shower Gelee and AHA Body Smoothing Lotion can improve the quality and appearance of the skin.

See more before and after photos of my patients who have used Thermage® and other skin-tightening treatments.

Kelly gave us her first hand account of how she successfully lost five inches overall with Zerona laser treatments. Now you can watch it on youtube and see Kelly’s transformation and also learn more about how easy and non-invasive the treatments are: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6-kuZJz-WU. We are seeing more patients come in for the treatments and they have been really pleased. Each session lasts forty minutes and patients are telling me they miss the relaxation when they have completed the treatment. But, they’re happy with the results!