Cellulite is a very common problem. In fact, eighty percent of women deal with cellulite. Although it is very prevalent, it is a natural phenomenon. In our culture and our society, the appearance of cellulite is not considered to be attractive. In the ultimate pursuit of attractiveness, most women would like to eliminate cellulite to achieve the appearance of smooth, toned legs, hips, and other areas of the body that may be affected. Read on to learn about how the appearance of cellulite can be improved.
Cellulite is primarily related to estrogen and estrogen receptors found in various parts of the body. In females, these receptors are concentrated around the pelvis, which is the reason why cellulite is most noticeable in the thighs, hips, saddlebags, and the lower abdomen. These estrogen receptors have been placed there from an evolutionary perspective to provide a mechanism for fat deposits to occur, like padding, to protect the womb during pregnancy.
In general, cellulite is a condition where high levels of estrogen occur at certain times of life. In turn, this can initiate the formation of cellulite. Men and women have different types of fat structure – in women, fat is organized into compartments, where the walls of these compartments line up parallel to each other. Men have a more disorganized pattern, where the fat compartments are running in various directions. The compartments are formed by fibrous tissue walls that trap the fat within them. When this fat gets trapped, and the number of fat cells increases within the compartment, it can bulge out. This is the unattractive bulging and dimpling that we observe with cellulite.
What are the treatment options to eliminate cellulite?The procedures that work quickly in improving the appearance of cellulite are those that deal with the structural changes that have caused the appearance of cellulite. These procedures will either disrupt the fibrous bands that are trapping the fat, are going to reduce some of the bulges that are found between the dimple lines, or are going to thicken the skin and create a smoother effect from what was previously existing.
One procedure that is very effective in treating cellulite is the Cellulaze procedure. This is a treatment that works by using laser energy to disrupt the fibrous bands, melt the excess fat, and thicken and tighten the skin, thereby creating a “Photoshopped” effect over the cellulite. This gives the skin a smoother appearance. This type of procedure does not require any general anesthesia and is usually done with local anesthesia. Patients will need to wear a compression garment for a short period after their treatment, and can be back at work or doing all essential normal activities within just a few days. This procedure is usually done at one time, and the length of time it takes usually depends on the size and number of areas to be treated.
Another alternative to Cellulaze is the VASERsmooth technology. It uses the VASER liposuction technology to achieve the same objectives as does the Cellulaze, and can also work well in reducing the appearance of cellulite.
With both of these techniques, results are first visible about three or four months post-procedure. It takes some time for the body to heal and to allow for dramatic improvements. One can see continued improvements with these treatments and the results can last for many years.
If you are interested in eliminating unwanted cellulite, contact us today at 310.856.9173 to schedule your consultation with Beverly Hills Cosmetic Surgeon, Andre Berger, MD.
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